MINI Australia has unveiled a special edition John Cooper Works hatch to commemorate 60 years since the brand’s historic victory at Bathurst in 1966, with just 26 examples going on sale.
Called the MINI Lucky 13 Edition, the limited-run model pays tribute to Bob Holden and Rauno Aaltonen, who drove a Morris Mini Cooper S to outright victory in the 1966 Gallaher 500 at Mount Panorama.
That race produced an extraordinary result for the British marque, with Mini Cooper S models occupying the first nine finishing positions. Holden and Aaltonen crossed the line one lap ahead of their nearest rivals.
The Lucky 13 name also has a personal connection to Holden, who adopted the number after drawing it from a hat during his racing career.
Based on the current MINI John Cooper Works 3-Door, the commemorative model retains the 2.0-litre turbo four-cylinder petrol engine producing 170kW and 380Nm, paired to a seven-speed dual-clutch auto transmission. Acceleration from 0-100km/h is claimed in 6.1 seconds.
The exterior is finished in British Racing Green IV, contrasted by a Glazed White roof, matching mirror caps and white bonnet stripes. Circular number 13 decals provide a direct reference to the original racing car.
Additional changes include 18-inch JCW Rallye Spoke alloy wheels, black aerodynamic winglets, carbon fibre exhaust tips and a red JCW tow strap.
Inside, the Lucky 13 features John Cooper Works sports seats, a JCW steering wheel, Anthracite headlining and black Vescin upholstery. It also comes with the 240mm circular OLED touch-screen, head-up display, heated and power front seats, a driver’s massage function and a 12-speaker Harman Kardon sound system.
Production is scheduled to begin in October 2026, coinciding with the 60th anniversary of the Bathurst victory. The production cap of 26 vehicles also references the 2026 launch year. Australian customer deliveries are expected to commence during the first quarter of 2027. Prices start from $71,990 (excluding on-roads).
