The Mini Remastered Oselli Edition is a £100,000 restomod
Limited-run Mini from David Brown Automotive packs impressive performance, but it comes at a price...
To honour and celebrate the debut of the original Alec Issigonis-designed Mini 60 years ago, David Brown Automotive has finally revealed the limited-run Oselli Edition of its Mini Remastered. First announced in 2019, the model features a larger-capacity A-series engine and a new gearbox, as well as a host of customisation possibilities. The Oselli Edition will be restricted to just 60 examples, with prices starting just shy of £100,000.
As the name suggests, classic car specialist and engine tuner Oselli has played a part in the creation of this new model, giving its A-series engine a significant upgrade. Capacity is lifted to 1.5 litres, with new pistons and a performance camshaft added and a pair of SU carburettors also fitted, while a hand-ported and polished cylinder head and a freer-flowing exhaust system are part of the upgrade too. As a result, peak outputs now sit at 123bhp and 113lb ft of torque, that former figure an impressive 75 percent bump over the unit found in the standard Mini Remastered.
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Though 123bhp doesn’t sound awfully impressive in 2021, the Remastered’s 1050kg kerb weight results in a healthy power-to-weight ratio, allowing for a 7.8sec 0-62mph time. Drive is sent to the front wheels via a limited-slip differential and a new five-speed gearbox for more comfortable cruising.
Michelle Gay, sales and marketing director at David Brown Automotive, said: ‘This model has been in planning for longer than usual, but only to allow us to perfect the ultimate race-ready city car package. This car is truly in a class of its own as a fun and spirited small car that can be enjoyed around town in the week and then taken to the track at the weekend, offering customers true versatility.’
There’s more to the Oselli Edition than just an engine upgrade, though – as you might hope given the price. Finely honing the Mini’s reactions is a set of adjustable Bilstein dampers, along with Enkei 7x13-inch alloys finished in gold or silver, with those wheels hiding a set of uprated AP Racing brakes. Up front there are 270mm discs clamped by four-piston calipers, while the rear set-up features lightweight aluminium drums.
To differentiate the Oselli Edition from the run-of-the-mill Mini Remastered, its styling includes special hues and other accoutrements. Two colours will be offered – off-white or dark grey – and can be accompanied by full-length racing stripes in either crimson, royal blue or racing green. The cast alloy engine cover is colour-coded to the exterior stripe, while exterior brightwork is darkened and includes black arch extensions, mirrors and door handles. A black mesh grille finishes off the package along with a pair of LED spotlights.
Inside there’s a choice of two interior styles – either a full four-seater set-up, or a two-seat version with a hand-finished roll-cage in the back. This latter option comes with hand-trimmed bucket seats and a rear storage compartment, and can also be fitted with four-point Sabelt harnesses. A Pioneer infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, USB charging and a four-speaker sound system are also included. You can even order personalised matching race suits and helmets to go with your Oselli Edition…
Pre-orders for the Oselli Edition are being taken now, with the first deliveries expected in early 2022. The four-seat model starts at £98,000, while prices rise for the two-seat version. So what are you choosing? An Oselli Edition, or a Cayman GT4 and a GR Yaris?
Mini Remastered Oselli Edition specs
| Engine | 1.5-litre naturally-aspirated four-cylinder |
| Power | 125bhp @ 6200rpm |
| Torque | 113lb ft @ 4500rpm |
| 0-62mph | 7.8sec |
| Top speed | 100mph |
| Weight | 1050kg |
| Price | From £98,000 |
