CannonGroup wanted to open their new cinema in Southampton in classic style, how better than with "The Italian Job" and the three minis.

This was not to be missed by any avid mini fan. The wide screen version with added film footage is a real treat, John Cooper himself also made an appearance what a great day for all the icing on the cake !

Gareth talks to John Cooper on how he masterminded the building of the three minis from 1987 to 1989 with help in the final month nearing completion from his brothers David, Daryl, Antony and friends.

A few months after the completion of the minis David thought it would be a good idea to fit a modified A Series Turbo engine producing over 180bhp Gareth had built in 1986 for his Metro Turbo he had previously owned with custom graphics & paint work but sold the car before getting round to fitting it.

David first set about modifying the Red minis bulkhead for turbo clearance and the machining of a bespoke inlet manifold to take the Renault 5 carburetor as Gareth had concluded this would be a far better fuel delivery setup than the inadequate SU carburetor which it turned out to be on the track and road, the problem was finding a
clutch to handle the 155+ bhp at the wheels.

This was a big operation...

Static Car Hire... full day for all three cars from £1950

Commercial hire half day rate 9am -1pm £950.00

hire rates are subject to a mileage charge @45p per mile per car