Mini unveils Mayfair and Camden 50th Anniversary special editions

Thoroughly modern yet pleasingly reminiscent of the original Mini, the latest generation offers a price, economy and handling package few can match. And today Mini decided to sweeten the deal with a pair of special editions in celebration of its 50th year of production.

The names of the two new models were chosen for London boroughs known alternately for exclusivity (50 Mayfair) and trendy urban culture (50 Camden). Their designs reflect those names with fitting accessories and intentions.

Both cars can be had with a choice of two gasoline engines or a diesel. The bigger of the two gasoline units offers 172hp (128kW) and 37.9mpg thanks to a four-pot fitted with a twin-scroll turbo. The second engine generates 118hp (88kW) and gets a very green 43.6mpg combined, while the diesel goes one further, turning out 107hp (80kW) and a very thrifty 60mpg. Both can also be ordered with either six-speed automatics or six-speed manuals.

Each car gets special paintwork, unique alloy rims, special interior materials and surfaces and a range of colors tailored to each car's purpose. A special placard is also affixed to each car, marking them out as limited-run models.

For the Mayfair, Mini decided to go for comfort and extravagance, with Toffy color Lounge leather upholstery and white piping, turquoise-green accents throughout the cabin, and Carbon Black interior finish elements to offset the brown-black dashboard.

Twelve-spoke 17in alloy wheels, a choice of Chocolate Brown, Pepper White or Midnight Black exterior colors, extra headlights inset at the grille, pinstriping and unique Mayfair badging complete the treatment.

A less classic look adorns the Camden, aiming for a more progressive theme. A choice of silver, white or black standard colors, plus Midnight Black or Horizon Blue metallics give the Camden a wider range of choice. Dual-tone matte/polished 17in alloy wheels also play off their unique look and finish.

Fluid Silver trim panels and doors plus leather-surfaced sport seats with green and white seams accent the cabin, and more turquoise green highlights offset the darker interior colors. Camden badging along with a range of smaller tweaks completes the look.

Both cars also come with an exclusive HiFi system with USB support and 'Mission Control' - a system that processes and evaluates a wide range of vehicle, driving and ambient signals, providing the driver with safety notifications and comfort settings.