1968 Mini Moke

The Mini Moke 1968 is a quirky, versatile, and robust vehicle that revolutionized the off-road driving experience in the late 1960s. Originally designed as a lightweight utility vehicle for the British army, the Mini Moke eventually found its way to civilian markets, thanks to its distinctive design, agile handling, and affordable price.

At a glance, the Mini Moke 1968 looks like a blend of a go-kart and a beach buggy. Its boxy and minimalist bodywork hides some clever engineering solutions that make it suitable for a wide range of terrains and conditions.

One of the most distinctive features of the Mini Moke is its open-top configuration, which makes it ideal for sunny days and warm climates. However, the Moke also comes with an optional soft-top and removable side screens that provide some protection from the elements. Another notable feature is the Moke's ground clearance, which is higher than most small cars, thanks to its sturdy suspension and tall tires. This feature enables the Moke to clear obstacles and traverse rough terrain with ease.

Under the hood, the Mini Moke 1968 is powered by a transverse-mounted 998 cc four-cylinder engine that produces 41 horsepower at 5250 rpm. The engine is coupled with a four-speed manual gearbox that enables smooth and precise gear changes, even on bumpy roads. The Moke's top speed is around 70 miles per hour, but it's not meant for high-speed cruising. Instead, the Moke excels in low-speed maneuvers, tight turns, and off-road adventures.

The Mini Moke's steering system is rack-and-pinion, which provides a direct and responsive feel. The brakes are drum-type on all four wheels, which may seem outdated by today's standards, but they do a decent job of slowing down the lightweight Moke. The Moke also has an independent suspension on all four wheels, which helps absorb shocks and bumps without compromising stability and control.

Inside, the Mini Moke 1968 has a spartan but functional interior. The front seats are basic but comfortable, while the rear seats are optional and can be easily removed to create more cargo space. The dashboard has the essential instruments and controls, including a speedometer, fuel gauge, ammeter, and ignition switch. The Moke's windshield is also minimalistic, providing enough protection from wind and dust, but not much else.

In terms of dimensions, the Mini Moke 1968 is 120 inches long, 52 inches wide, and 54.5 inches tall, with a wheelbase of 80 inches. The Moke's weight is around 1,250 pounds, which makes it one of the lightest vehicles on the road. The Moke's turning radius is also impressively tight, allowing it to make U-turns on narrow streets and alleys.

In conclusion, the Mini Moke 1968 may not be the most refined or luxurious vehicle out there, but it has a charm and character that are hard to resist. Its technical features, such as its open-top body, ground clearance, robust suspension, and agile steering, make it a versatile and fun vehicle for off-road enthusiasts and urban adventurers alike. Despite its age and simplicity, the Mini Moke 1968 remains a timeless icon of automotive design and freedom.