Mini Cooper S

vs

Zastava 750

UK vs Yugoslavia — 1959 vs 1955

Mini Cooper S (1959)
Zastava 750 (1955)
Specifications
Cooper S Mk I750 Fico
Horsepower76 hp22 hp
Torque79 lb-ft33 lb-ft
Engine Size1,275 cc767 cc
0-60 mph10.9 sec
Top Speed95 mph62 mph
¼ Mile17.5 sec
Weight1,290 lbs
Wheelbase2,036 mm2,000 mm
Length3,054 mm3,215 mm
Units Produced4,020923,487
Value (Excellent)$100,000$15,000
Collectibility5/106/10
Rarity7/105/10
The Verdict

This matchup is remarkably close. The 1959 Mini Cooper S Mk I offers more power, higher top speed, greater rarity, while the 1955 Zastava 750 Fico counters with stronger collectibility, better value. Neither holds a decisive advantage, making this a true enthusiast's dilemma. Your choice ultimately depends on which driving philosophy resonates more with you.

Overview

When UK engineering meets Yugoslavia craftsmanship, the result is one of the most compelling matchups in the classic car world. The 1959 Mini Cooper S Mk I and 1955 Zastava 750 Fico embody their respective national automotive traditions while competing in the same arena. The 1959 Mini Cooper S Mk I holds a clear advantage in raw power with 76 hp compared to 22 hp, a 54-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Mini Cooper S uses a Inline-4 OHV 8V displacing 1,275 cc, while the Zastava 750 relies on a Inline-4 OHV with 767 cc. The 1959 Mini Cooper S Mk I claims a higher top speed at 95 mph compared to 62 mph. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 4,020 units built, the 1959 Mini Cooper S Mk I is considerably scarcer than the Zastava 750's 923,487 examples. On the collector market, the 1959 Mini Cooper S Mk I commands a significant premium over the 1955 Zastava 750 Fico, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.