Exactly fifty years ago, on the 26th of August 1929, the first incarnation of the MINI brand was introduced to the public. This year’s Frankfurt Motorshow, scheduled in September, will witness the unveiling of MINI’s Coupe Concept.

Dubbed as a car that could describe the future vision of MINI’s design philosophy, the Coupe Concept looks remarkably similar to current models on offer. The only noticeable difference is the peculiar areodynamic shaping of the aluminum roof, and the color-coding of rims. It seems, from looking at images, that MINI have used similar design traits to emulate what BMW did with the 1 series hatchback, when designing their coupe. The Coupe Concept measures 3 714 mm in length, and 1 683 mm in width. Height is 1 356 mm, thus providing the MINI with an aggressive and willing stance. 

The front and rear headlights, combined with the traditional integrated bonnet grill, provide for a very similar visual appearance to models already available. The only minute difference that will differentiate the Coupe Concept from current MINI’s is the decaled roof and bonnet lines that extend onto the grill. 

The aluminum roof lowers the car’s centre of gravity, improving handling, and adding to MINI’s famous ‘go-kart’ handling competence when tackling challenging corners. Only two passengers will be able to witness such competencies, while enjoying the same drivetrain and suspension technology being used within current models.

The 1.6 litre, 155kW John Cooper Works motor with 280 Nm of torque, will once again provide astonishing and lively performance. The aluminum roof will reduce the car’s overall weight, leading to a decrease in CO2 emissions, and hopefully also improve fuel economy. This will also contribute towards strengthening BMW’s ‘Efficient Dynamics’ marketing program.     

The interior is still adorned with the rev counter behind the steering column, while the speedometer will resume its role of sitting in the upper centre section of the dash, while housing audio, entertainment and optional navigational systems. Drivers will be able to alter their entertainment settings through using buttons positioned on the outer edges of the multifunctional steering wheel, as with current models.

The Coupe Concept may have a fancy roof, and a sleeker rear end, but in truth it is still the same MINI we know of and love today. A major factor that could contribute towards altering the overall experience of driving the car is the aluminum roof. Body roll, and under steer when attacking challenging combinations of corners could be improved, making the MINI even more effective on your favorite mountain road stretch.