1968 Mini Cooper S

The Mini Cooper S, produced in 1968, is a classic small car with technical features that make it stand out even to this day. The car's 1275cc engine uses a four-cylinder overhead valve design, capable of producing 77 horsepower and reaching a top speed of 98 miles per hour. With a weight of just over 1,500 pounds, the Mini Cooper S offers an exceptional power-to-weight ratio and is impressively agile.

One of the most impressive technical features of the Mini Cooper S is its suspension system. The car's front suspension uses double wishbones, while the back has a unique Hydrolastic system that utilizes a rubber cone inside a fluid-filled cylinder. This system provides a smooth ride, sharp handling, and excellent steering capabilities. The car's brakes are also noteworthy, with hydraulic front disc brakes and drums in the rear, providing reliable stopping power.

The Mini Cooper S has a four-speed manual transmission linked to its front-wheel drive system, enabling precise control over the car's movements. The car's gearbox uses a unique design known as a remote-shift system, which accounts for the short stick shift. The car's gearbox also features a dogleg first gear, which is essentially a gear switch that allows the driver to start in second gear, reducing the likelihood of missing gears during quick shifting.

The car's exterior styling is iconic, featuring a compact two-door hatchback design with a sleek, sporty look. The car's interior is surprisingly spacious, with ample legroom and headroom for both driver and passenger. The dashboard is simple, featuring four gauges; a speedometer, fuel gauge, water temperature gauge, and oil pressure gauge.

Overall, the Mini Cooper S of 1968 is an engineering marvel that has stood the test of time. The car's lightness, agility, suspension system, brakes, gearbox, and exterior design make it a true classic. Even though the car may appear small compared to more modern vehicles, it is enjoyable to drive, and its technical features make it a remarkable feat of engineering.