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7. BMC Mini
One of the most iconic and influential cars in popular culture is the British Motor Corporation’s (BMC) Mini. First introduced in 1959, this tiny vehicle was originally sold under the Morris and Austin brands before the Mini became its own distinguished brand in 1970. Interestingly, this subcompact car was developed due to a fuel shortage in Europe. Britain’s involvement in the Suez Crisis of 1956 so upset the then-King of Saudi Arabia that he suspended petroleum shipments to the United Kingdom. This led to the rationing of gas and a crash in the British car market. Fortunately, necessity really is the mother of invention, and British motorists were introduced to a car that was super fuel efficient.
Only 10 feet in length it had a tiny footprint but it could still seat four adults comfortably. The fuel efficiency of this car was truly remarkable for the time. And it ushered in an era of smaller cars in Europe that continues today. The engine was mounted transversely under the hood, meaning from side-to-side rather than front-to-back. This allowed for more interior room—making the Mini both cost effective and practical.
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