MINI in Grants Pass, OR

A Brief History of MINI 

Whether you are driving in Grants Pass, Kerby, Wilderville, Glendale, or Cave Junction, your MINI Cooper is sure to stand out. The first MINI Cooper was released in 1959 in England by Sir Leonard Lord and Alec Issigonis of the Morris Company. The car was designed in response to soaring fuel prices, the goal to design a small, affordable, fuel-efficient car capable of carrying four adults. Issigonis made more room in the car’s cockpit by pushing the wheels all the way out to the corners and turning the engine sideways giving the car more stability in tight turn and more passenger space on the inside. 

The MINI Cooper became very popular in the 1960s, as it embodied Britain’s classic style in a low-cost, small size, fun and nimble package to symbolize independence and spontaneity. The MINI Cooper transcended class barriers and professions, and even entered the racing world because of its go-kart-like build. The Classic MINI Cooper 997 was introduced in 1961 by racing legend John Cooper. In 1962, racer Pat Moss led the MINI to its first motorsport victory in the Netherlands Tulip Rally. 

In addition to being exhilarating to drive, owners loved how easily their MINI became an extension of themselves, which still holds true for MINI Cooper drivers in Josephine County today. A dynamic expression of their individuality and a personality-packed sidekick that was always up for a bit of spontaneous fun. By 1969, over 2 million MINI Coopers had been sold all around the world. Pickup and station wagon versions of the MINI were introduced and proved to be very durable. By 1977, over 4 million MINI Coopers had been sold.

In 1999, over 5 million classic MINIs had been sold and the MINI was voted the European Car of the Century! In 2003, the MINI took home the North American Car of the Year Award. Today’s MINI Cooper line has expanded, including available ALL4 all-wheel drive, three models with more seating and four doors, spirited two-seaters, topless motoring – and a new era of sophisticated technology and high-end interiors. With all its value at an affordable price, it’s no wonder so many Grants Pass residents choose to drive a MINI Cooper. 

MINI Today

We at STAR Automotive can take care of your MINI Cooper, bumper to bumper. In addition to specializing in suspension repair and cooling system service, we also do MINI Cooper brake repair, transmission repair, and servicing. The models that MINI-Cooper has on the market today are:

• Hardtop 2-Door

The mini that started it all. Today’s versions come with four-wheel independent suspension, LED headlights, and leather upholstery.

• Hardtop 4-Door

The Hardtop 4-Door is similar to the Hardtop 2-Door but comes with double the doors, a little more leg room, a little more cargo room and a little more elbow room.

• Countryman

The biggest, most adventurous MINI yet, the Countryman is an ALL4 all-wheel drive that boasts generous space for cargo and passengers.

• Clubman

With split rear doors, a refined, spacious interior and available ALL4 all-wheel drive, it ushers in a new era of sophisticated versatility.

• Convertible

With a 3-in-1 convertible roof, the MINI convertible comes with rollover protection, a rain warner and a touchscreen navigation system.

Your Auto Shop for MINI Repair

When your MINI Cooper needs repairs, you can bring your car to STAR Automotive in Grants Pass. We’ve been fixing cars since 1975 and our owner Jim Lefeber makes sure that their highly trained mechanics receive ongoing training in automotive technology and auto repair services, and will offer you dealer quality knowledge and experience without dealership pricing. Your car will go through an inspection and safety check, and all needed repairs will be thoroughly explained for your approval. Some of our key services include general auto repair, maintenance, and MINI engine repair. We will never recommend repairs that aren’t absolutely necessary. So why not give us a try? If you are in Grants Pass or surrounding areas, schedule an appointment at STAR Automotive today! You can schedule an appointment with us online at https://stargp.com/contact/ or give us a call at 541-579-2012.