Salisbury, England – 28 August 2025 – For the first time in history, the classic Mini will line up on the 1950s grid of the famous St. Mary’s Trophy race at the Goodwood Revival. Traditionally dominated by lumbering American V8s and a host of pre-1960 saloon cars, the iconic little Austin will finally get its moment among the giants.
The honour falls to Austin Cars Ltd, a newly established company rooted in the expertise of Burlen Ltd—the custodians of SU, Amal and Zenith Carburettors, and creators of Austin Pedal Cars. The team has chosen the Mini as the centrepiece of its engineering vision, debuting two re-imagined 1959-spec machines crafted specifically for this year’s Revival.
Meticulous Attention to 1959 Detail
To ensure authenticity, Owens Fabrication in Wales built the bodyshells and roll cages with precision, replicating the earliest Minis down to their raised ride height and subtle trim variations. Meanwhile, Swiftune Engineering, renowned worldwide for their race-winning A-Series engines, developed and tested the cars’ powerplants. These units feature the period-correct single SU carburettor, less potent than the Cooper S-spec engines usually seen at Goodwood, paired with the original “wand” gear lever of the 850cc Mini.
Painted in Farina Grey, an original Austin colour from 1959, the two Minis reflect the spirit of no-frills motoring—basic, fun, and evocative of an era when simplicity and charm defined the driving experience.
A Shared Vision for Revival Racing
“Our aim was to produce cars that captured the innocence of the Mini’s earliest days,” says Mark Burnett, Managing Director of Austin Cars Ltd. “The idea has been brewing for years, and now seemed the perfect time to bring something pure, fun and soul-stirring back to the Revival stage.”
Goodwood’s Will Kinsman, Editorial and Content Director, echoed the sentiment: “Our brief was simple—build cars that look like your mum’s Mini, borrowed for the day, given a number, and raced without her knowing. Austin, Swiftune and Owens have delivered this with remarkable attention to detail.”
Star Drivers for a Historic Race
The 2025 St. Mary’s Trophy race will feature two-driver line-ups across Saturday and Sunday, with aggregate results deciding the final standings. Behind the wheel of the Minis will be Burnett himself and Swiftune’s Nick Swift, joined by high-profile co-drivers Darren Turner, endurance racing champion, and Karun Chandhok, former Formula 1 driver.
“This is a huge privilege for us,” says Burnett. “To see our 1959 Austin Minis take to the Goodwood grid for the first time is a proud moment—and perhaps a glimpse of what Austin Cars Ltd has in store for the future.”
