1998 Austin Mini Cooper | Darwen, Lancashire

The Mini Cooper is the sporting version of the small British classic, liked for its lively handling and a cabin that keeps driver and passenger close to the action. The Cooper name came back to the Mini range in 1990 after a gap of more than twenty years. This car is red with a black interior, a plain pairing that reads clearly on camera. The body is short and upright, with tiny overhangs and a rounded face, and the engine is a 1275cc petrol unit. It seats four. The compact shape leaves plenty of room in shot for the location behind it, which helps advertising, fashion and editorial photography. The strong red stands out in music videos and on event displays, and the car sits easily in 1990s-set film and TV scenes. A short, characterful wedding or personal arrival suits it too. It is based in Darwen, Lancashire.