How do you get a 1.4l twin-cam K-series engine into a Mini? The answer is by making the car bigger, but you'd be hard put to it to see where. This prototype was built by Rover in 1995 to see whether the transplant was possible. The body has been stretched by 50mm in length and width. A new front subframe is used and the suspension is modified Rover 100 (aka Metro), as is the steering column. The rear subframe is widened. Rover 100 interior fittings have also been used.

The project never went into production and the prototype is on display at the Motor Heritage Centre, Gaydon. Photos: R. Porter

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