This Mini Pickup Is A 300 HP V8-Driven Ruckus | Carscoops

      You won't come across another mid-engined, V8-powered Mini truck like this one, crafted in 1994 by GT Developments.

      This unique Mini was created by a British specialist known for replicating Ford GT40s.

      This custom build boasts a handmade chassis and operates with rear-wheel drive.

      It is powered by a Ford-sourced 5.0-liter V8 engine that delivers 300 horsepower.

      Although this compact truck isn't an original Austin Mini pickup, it is a fascinating creation that promises to be an exhilarating drive. This standout one-off was produced in the UK and will be auctioned later this month, potentially fetching between £30,000 (~$38,800) and £35,000 (~$45,200). While that might seem steep, finding another small truck like this worldwide would be quite a challenge.

      The company that created this vehicle, GT Developments, was a prominent name in constructing Ford GT40 replicas during the late 1990s. They built this Mini pickup in 1994 to demonstrate their engineering capabilities, and now Iconic Auctioneers has been assigned to sell it.

      Underpinning this quirky design is the same custom chassis used for their GT40 replicas. GT Developments sourced the body of a Mini Estate but modified it by removing most of the rear section, transforming it into a pickup. Notably, the bed doesn't serve as a typical storage space; instead, it houses the engine. Yes, this Mini features a mid-engine layout.

      The engine in question is a Ford 5.0-liter V8 paired with a five-speed manual transmission, producing around 300 hp that powers the rear wheels. While its exact weight is unknown, it's likely very light, possibly prompting some reconsiderations of life choices while driving, something even the new Ram 1500 TRX might struggle to match. The auction house mentions that the Mini has been outfitted with coilovers and enhanced brakes.

      The interior is minimalistic: it includes a half-roll cage, racing harnesses, two black seats, and a straightforward alloy dashboard. The shifter is positioned on the driver’s side sill, with the exposed linkage connecting directly to the rear.

      If this remarkable creation has caught your attention, it will be available for bidding at an auction on Saturday, March 22nd. You can place your bid here.