The original Mini (launched in 1959 by the British Motor Corporation) was a revolutionary small economy car designed by Alec Issigonis. It featured a transverse engine and front-wheel drive, maximizing interior space in a tiny footprint (just 10 feet long). The Mini became a 1960s cultural symbol, influencing modern subcompacts, and was voted one of the most influential cars of the 20th century. Production ran until 2000, after which BMW revived the brand as MINI, producing stylish, premium small cars today. The original Mini's innovative design philosophy of maximizing interior space while minimizing exterior dimensions has influenced countless modern vehicles, from the Smart Fortwo to the Fiat 500. Its success in rally racing, including multiple Monte Carlo Rally victories, cemented its reputation as both a practical city car and a capable performance vehicle.