In late summer 1959, chief designer Sir Alex Issigonis conceived a small, inexpensive, and economical car for the British Motor Corporation, which became the world's first compact car. The very first 34-horsepower version did not achieve the desired success, but former racing driver and car designer John Cooper took notice of the little speedster and fitted it with a motor that was twice as powerful - the Mini Cooper S, which currently boasts an impressive 175 horsepower. Thus, in the 1960s, the Mini not only won all the races at the Monte Carlo Rally, but also attracted fashion designers like Paul Smith, racing drivers like Niki Lauda and Enzo Ferrari, actors like Paul Newman and Steve McQueen, models like Twiggy, and pop stars like The Beatles. From then on, this small luxury car was sold in millions and is still considered a cult car today. Read on to learn more about the Mini's journey.