These two creations came from the mind of William Towns, who also thought up the Hustler (as well as the Aston Martin DBS and Lagonda). Designed for a foreseeable future in which space would be at a premium, these tiny cars would have been fantastic if they had been put into production.
The Minissima was based on Mini parts, including the engine and 10inch wheels (much the same as the Hustler)
an automatic version of the A series engine was used, along with a high roof for driver comfort and ease of use.
Then we have the Microdot, which was an evolution of the Minissima. Once again featuring futuristic but simple styling, this car utilized an aluminium Reliant 400cc petrol engine that was used to power a 3.5kw generator. The Microdot also had seating for 3 people. Again using a cut-down mini derived chassis, the Microdot was to be produced with the aim of making 100 Miles to the gallon.
It's a real shame neither of these made it to production, with the Minissima being deemed unsafe and the recession of the 80s (along with popularity of other small cars) halting further work on the Microdot. I'd love to imagine that had these been produced there would be a massive cult following to this day.
The Minissima was based on Mini parts, including the engine and 10inch wheels (much the same as the Hustler)
an automatic version of the A series engine was used, along with a high roof for driver comfort and ease of use.
Then we have the Microdot, which was an evolution of the Minissima. Once again featuring futuristic but simple styling, this car utilized an aluminium Reliant 400cc petrol engine that was used to power a 3.5kw generator. The Microdot also had seating for 3 people. Again using a cut-down mini derived chassis, the Microdot was to be produced with the aim of making 100 Miles to the gallon.
It's a real shame neither of these made it to production, with the Minissima being deemed unsafe and the recession of the 80s (along with popularity of other small cars) halting further work on the Microdot. I'd love to imagine that had these been produced there would be a massive cult following to this day.
