In more tangible terms, Mini has persuaded Rolls-Royce to mod a Cooper S. First, Rolls’ elite craftsmen spray the Mini in their proprietary Diamond Black metallic paint - alternatively, Reef Blue metallic can be specced as an added cost option. Inside, the seats, door linings and instrument panel have been reupholstered in some sumptuously soft beige leather. There’s a new handcrafted walnut burr dashboard and the dash top is now in full-grain black leather rather than plastic. Piano-black gloss wooden accents have been added around the steering wheel buttons and the control panel beneath the central speedo, the face of which now mimicks Rolls’ own dials. The roof lining, sun visors and rear storage trays have all been lined in handsome cashmere. Oh, and there are even some wonderful trademark Roller deep-shag lambswool carpets thrown in for good measure.
So it may not be a mini Rolls-Royce per se, but then it doesn’t claim to be one. What it does represent is probably the coolest little car on the market today. Rich man’s Mini? Poor man’s Rolls-Royce? Tomaytoes, Tomahtoes…
WHAT Mini by Goodwood
PRICE 65,000 USD
RARITY Only 1,000 will be made
WHY The standard Mini Cooper S is a great little car but the addition of a few particular Rolls-Royce touches elevates its status, making it an incredibly enticing little runabout.
www.mini.com
