The Beach Mini concept, initially considered an alternative to the Fiat Jolly, never entered series production. However, Mini specialist Mengers is now reintroducing this unique concept in a limited production run. This article explores the features of the Beach Mini, its customization options, enhanced performance, and pricing details.
The Historical Context:
Mini’s Expansion into the US Market: In 1962, the British Motor Corporation (BMC) commenced exporting the Mini to the United States. To promote this new compact car, certain dealerships showcased doorless special models. 1.2. Beach Mini Concept: The Beach Mini concept aimed to compete with the popular Fiat Jolly in Europe. Unfortunately, the production of the Mini Moke in 1964 left no room for the Beach Mini in the BMC portfolio. Consequently, only a limited number of approximately 15 handmade open Mini models were produced.
The Resurgence of the Beach Mini:
Mengers Special Cars: Mengers Special Cars, a renowned Mini specialist located in Oldenburg, Germany, celebrates Mini’s 60th birthday by resurrecting the Beach Mini in small series production. 2.2. Handcrafted Manufacturing: Similar to its predecessors, the Mengers Beach Mini is meticulously handcrafted. Prospective buyers have the option to provide their own base Mini or request Mengers to procure a suitable conversion vehicle. Each Beach Mini is individually designed to meet the customer’s specifications, encompassing body design, drive concept, surface materials, chassis, infotainment, and colors.
Key Features of the Beach Mini Concept:
Doorless Design: The Beach Mini concept is characterized by the absence of doors, achieved by removing the B-pillar. Strategic strengthening measures ensure structural integrity and prevent collapse.
Airy Interior:
The interior of the Beach Mini offers a spacious and open feel, featuring two wicker seats in the front and a wicker bench at the rear. Mengers combines leather covers with Lloyd Loom, a twisted paper yarn with a metal wire core, commonly employed in the furniture industry. Chrome handle strips aid ingress and egress, while a chrome grab bar extends between the two rows of seats. Safety equipment is limited to lap belts.
Enhanced Performance:
Upgraded Engine: Mengers has improved the Beach Mini’s performance by replacing the original 34 hp 850 engine with a 42 hp 1,000 series A engine. Additionally, a shorter, fully synchronized transmission is employed to enhance driving dynamics. 4.2. Optional Power Increase: For those seeking even more power, Mengers offers engine options with up to 100 hp in the fully customizable Beach Mini concept. The possibility of a fully electric powertrain is also being considered for future models.
Pricing and Value:
Mengers does not disclose the prices for the Beach Mini publicly, emphasizing that numerous factors influence the final cost. Company founder Dierk Mengers notes that while the Beach Mini is not a bargain, it is more affordable compared to the nearly unobtainable original models. Historical sales of original Beach Mini models reached approximately 178,000 euros in 2014 and around 226,000 euros in 2019.
Conclusion:
Mini specialist Mengers is reintroducing the legendary Beach Mini concept, allowing customers to order their customized beach mobile. With its unique design, handcrafted construction, enhanced performance, and individualization options, the Beach Mini offers Mini enthusiasts a distinctive driving experience in a compact package.
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