Former Indian cricket captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni, known for his remarkable cricketing skills and leadership, was recently spotted driving his vintage Mini Cooper on the streets of Ranchi, his hometown. The legendary cricketer has added this restored Mini Cooper to his impressive collection of cars at his residence in Jharkhand.
A video uploaded on YouTube by Surajkhatrivlogs captured the delightful moment. In the footage, Dhoni can be seen cruising around Ranchi in a captivating red Mini Cooper with white stripes on the bonnet. The car is a vintage model that is not commonly seen nowadays and was originally known as the Rover Cooper Mini Sport, as it was owned by Rover.
The Classic Mini Cooper, introduced in 1959 by Sir Alec Issigonis, revolutionized the automotive industry with its compact design and exceptional performance. Initially intended as an affordable car for the masses, its timeless appeal and agile handling made it popular among racers and car enthusiasts worldwide. The collaboration with renowned racing car designer John Cooper resulted in the Mini Cooper JCW, known for its enhanced power and superior driving dynamics. While the exact model year of Dhoni’s Mini Cooper classic is unknown, it has clearly undergone a full nut and bolt restoration, similar to his other classic cars.
The Classic Mini Cooper’s small size, measuring just over ten feet in length, makes it ideal for maneuvering in tight urban spaces. From the video, it’s evident how compact it truly is. The Classic Mini Cooper is equipped with various engine options, including the 998cc, 1275cc, and 848cc variants, offering spirited acceleration and nimble maneuverability. Its lightweight construction, front-wheel drive, and compact wheelbase ensure exceptional handling, providing a delightful driving experience on both city streets and winding country roads.
Inside, the Classic Mini Cooper offers a cozy cabin with seating for four passengers. Despite its compact dimensions, clever design maximizes interior space, providing a comfortable environment. The dashboard features a straightforward layout with easily accessible controls and analogue gauges, showcasing the car’s functional yet stylish nature.
Even after several decades, Classic Mini Coopers continue to enjoy strong demand in the current market. Their timeless charm and iconic design make them highly sought after by collectors and classic car enthusiasts. The scarcity of well-preserved models further enhances their desirability and value. Moreover, the resurgence of retro and vintage trends has reignited interest in the Classic Mini Cooper, making it a symbol of style and individuality.
In addition to the Classic Mini Cooper, Dhoni has recently taken delivery of a brand-new Kia EV6, his first electric car. The Kia EV6, brought in through the CBU route, was launched in limited numbers in India. Dhoni’s car collection also includes a Mercedes-Benz GLE 250d, a vintage Rolls Royce Silver Wraith 2, a 1970s Ford Mustang 429 Fastback, a Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT, a 1970 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am, a Hummer H2, a Nissan Jonga 1 Ton, an Audi Q7, and numerous other remarkable vehicles. Additionally, Dhoni’s passion for motorcycles is evident, with over a dozen motorcycles gracing his collection.
