POWER TRIP
The Mini undoubtedly redefined motoring, establishing new standards of packaging, handling and performance. Yet, paradoxically, despite the superb dynamics and brilliant use of space, some individuals wanted to put their own ‘spin’ on Issigonis’ baby and tap into an entirely different market. As a result, there were a number of Mini-based specialist cars launched during the 1960s, including the Ogle SX1000, Broadspeed GT and Mini Marcos. These were good cars, with much to commend them. But to all intents and purposes, they were rebodied Minis. And they still relied on the donor car’s front-engined, front wheel-drive format.
Others, such as the Deep Sanderson, Cox GTM and Unipower GT, also employed the Mini powertrain and a number of Mini-derived components. However, this trio were boundary-pushing, mid-engined designs. None more so than the Unipower... and the man behind this microsized marvel was car-obsessive Ernie Unger.
“I was fanatical about cars from an early age,” admits Ernie smiling. “At the age of four, for the amusement of my parents, I used to stand on a street corner and correctly identify every make and model that passed! When old enough, I spent my school holidays working at a local garage. I de-coked cylinder heads, helped with the servicing, did anything asked of me really.”
It was a passion which
