1969 Mini 9X hatchback

1969 Mini 9X hatchback prototype – At the end of the sixties, the designer of the iconic Mini, Alec Issigonis considered a new small car to replace it. He wanted room for four adults and luggage, with competitive specification and a price that was 5% below the Mini price at the time.

The outcome was a squared-off, two-door, hatchback, a new ‘9X’ 850cc engine and transmission as well as a revised specification and greater ease of servicing. The engine alone had an impressive 40% weight saving over the then current Mini.

Hydrolastic suspension gave way to a new components including vertical struts and independent rear suspension via torsion bars. The new body shape offered increased passenger and luggage space. However, unlike his previous designs, Issigonis’ new hatch did not pass the concept stage as British Leyland management were unresponsive to his ideas. It is regarded by many as a missed opportunity, as European manufacturers introduced their own hatchback cars only a few years later.

Mini 9X

Innovations

New Engine & Gearbox:

• A compact, all-aluminum 4-cylinder engine (848cc) designed entirely from scratch to be lighter, more efficient, and easier to build than the Mini’s A-series engine.

Improved Packaging:

• Issigonis optimized interior space even more than the Mini, with fewer parts and a more modular design. Fewer panels meant simpler and cheaper production.

Reduced Complexity:

• The 9X had less than half the number of components compared to the original Mini — a major step toward rationalizing British Leyland’s bloated lineup.

Excellent Performance:

• The prototype reportedly outperformed the Mini 850, was quieter, and returned better fuel economy (~60 mpg UK).