Alec Issigonis' masterpiece was released in 1959, after the brilliant designer had also dedicated himself to working on an experimental V8 for Alvis, then returning to the British Motor Corporation (BMC) to finish developing the Mini. With the Morris brand, the car took the name Mini Minor. Revolutionary with its transverse front engine, its reduced external dimensions and abundant internal space, the first version had an 848cc 4-cylinder engine with 34hp at 5500 rpm and remained in production until 1967, when it was replaced by the MkII, offered both with the 848cc and with the 998cc. Meanwhile, in 1964, the sports versions Cooper (970cc) and Cooper S (1275cc) were released.
Kyosho was founded in Japan in 1963 and began producing RC model cars in 1970, becoming one of the world's leading manufacturers in this sector. Since 1992 the company also began to appear in the world of diecasts, with products in various scales, including 1:43 and 1:18. The Kyosho models, made in China, are very well detailed, with opening parts and accurate reproduction of mechanics and interiors.