BMC ADO34, 35, and 36: The Mini-Based Roadsters That Never Made It
In the early 1960s, the British Motor Corporation had a bold idea. Could the iconic Mini be transformed into a stylish, affordable sports car to compete with the Fiat 850 Spider and Triumph Spitfire? The answer, though tantalizingly close, never reached production. Today, the story of the ADO34, 35, and 36 offers a fascinating look into automotive ambition, corporate politics, and the paths not taken. The ADO34 project represented both vision and frustration. Engineers at MG in Abingdon and Longbridge aimed to turn the Mini into a nimble, low-cost sports car. Conflicting priorities, cost concerns, and the strong opinions of Alec Issigonis, the Mini’s creator, meant the project quietly faded away. For enthusiasts in Dubai and across the UAE, understanding...