Unique Austin Mini ‘Mentley’: you have to see this one

Mini ‘Mentley’

The Mini ‘Mentley’ began life as a track day car, but was slowly transformed into the striking appearance as it is pictured today.
Under the hood is a fully modified 235 kW (320 hp) TVR V8 engine, mated to a Range Rover gearbox.
With nitrous boost and straight pipes, the Mini can theoretically achieve a 0-100 km/h sprint in about three seconds, although that requires a brave driver.

The car is owned by three musicians: Dominic Whittle, Gary Selby and Mike Williams.
The trio travels around Europe in the Mini, with their musical instruments on the luggage rack, performing in countries such as France, Italy and Germany.
They donate the proceeds from their performances to Save the Children.

An honorable win

“We feel hugely honored to win the UK round of the Hot Wheels Legends Tour with ‘Mentley’. It’s a great reward for all the work and fun we’ve put into this project,” said Dominic Whittle.
“Our passion for cars started when we were six years old and to be standing here 53 years later with a car that reflects those childhood memories is special.”

Unmistakable authenticity

From more than 180 entries, the Mini “Mentley” managed to impress the judges with its unmistakable authenticity and character, perfectly capturing the spirit of the Hot Wheels Legends Tour.
The judges, led by Hot Wheels designer Craig Callum, judged the cars on design, authenticity, garage spirit, performance, fun and the story behind the build.

The jury speaking

Craig Callum explains, “The Hot Wheels Legends Tour celebrates the builders, visionaries and those in the automotive world who manage to create legends with their creativity and perseverance. The Mini ‘Mentley’ is a perfect example of the British creativity and garage spirit that makes Hot Wheels so special. With a wild engine modification and a unique blend of two British icons, the Mini ‘Mentley’ captures exactly the fun and authenticity we seek. It is the kind of design we would develop ourselves in the studio. The vehicle has so many distinctive details that make it unique.”
A future Hot Wheels model?

Coming soon as a Hot Wheels model, too?

The Mini ‘Mentley’ is now on the verge of worldwide recognition, with a chance to be included as a miniature model in the legendary Hot Wheels line.
According to Callum, the design, with its authentic look and unique character, offers perfect opportunities for reproduction as a diecast model.