Tom Sturdy’s Obtainable Dream: A 1996 Rover Mini Tartan Edition
It’s only fitting that the first episode of Spanners kicked off with a car that embodies charm, quirk, and timeless design: Tom Sturdy’s 1996 Rover Mini Tartan Edition. While Tom claims he’d ideally have a GT40 in the garage, the Mini is his "obtainable dream car," a slice of automotive history that aligns with his personality and passion.
The Rover Mini Tartan Edition is a unique variant made exclusively for the Japanese Domestic Market (JDM), adding an extra layer of rarity to the already interesting mini. The Tartan Edition gives the Mini a unique set of badging and, in Tom’s case, a tartan plaid interior that blends beautifully with the green trim, popping in contrast to the rich red exterior of the car. He tracked it down from the owner of an Arizona-based British car restoration shop. After sorting out the sale agreement and shipping the car to Michigan, Tom was forced to sit waiting excitedly for the mini to be delivered via freight down the road from his house. That’s how Tom ended up with a right-hand drive Mini that’s technically a 1996 model but retains the unmistakable silhouette of the classic Minis we all know and love.
One of the standout features of Tom’s Mini is its fuel-injected 1.3L engine. Unlike earlier carbureted Minis that require frequent tuning, this system offers consistent and reliable fueling. For Tom, this means he can enjoy vintage styling without sacrificing modern convenience and dependability. Getting the classic look, but it actually starts on cold mornings and runs smoothly through every season. Normally, being a ’90s car, the Mini wouldn’t be on the MARS radar, but with its classic styling that stays true to the originals with tasteful updates like wheels and over-fender add-ons, it stands out. Paired with Tom’s personality, his hands-on approach to wrenching, and a sense of adventure that goes beyond stereotypical car shows, this Mini finds its rightful place in the spotlight.
A Drive Through History
During our time with Tom, he shared the winding road that led him to the Mini. His passion for cars was sparked early, influenced by his father’s love for classic vehicles and weekend wrenching sessions in the garage. Learning to drive a manual isn’t always an easy process, but for Tom, it was unforgettable. His first experience shifting gears was behind the wheel of an aircraft tug while working at an air museum in Washington State. Following that, Tom shared the contrast between driving his Focus ST, where you can hit 60 mph in second gear, and the Mini, where you have to work hard, rowing through all four gears just to get up to traffic speed. It truly embodies the spirit of "slow car fast."
Later in the day, Tom took us for a spin in the Mini to show us what makes it so special as a driver's car. The 1.3L engine pulls smoothly, while the car’s lightweight and sharp steering make it a blast through corners. As we zipped around, it became clear why Tom fell in love with this little car. It’s not just about the look or the rarity; it’s about the driving experience—nimble, playful, and full of personality. Adding to the Mini’s charm are hidden gems like the Japanese toll pass device that still speaks to you in Japanese, a subtle reminder of the car’s JDM roots and unique character.
A Surprise Around the Hill
After returning to Tom’s house, we thought the day was winding down. But Tom had one more story to share. Out behind his house, past a hill, and into his backyard, he showed us his “other” car: a lifted and dirt-tired Scion xB that has been reborn as a rallycross beast.
The story behind the Scion is as unique as the car itself. It started life as a prop for The Autopian’s video series "Worst Foods to Eat While Driving." When the shoot was over, the car was abandoned, its interior reeking of rotting food. Most people would have run—or driven—the other way. Not Tom. Seeing the potential, he cleaned it out, added a lift kit, slapped on some off-road tires, and turned the unloved box-on-wheels into a backyard rally monster. Incredibly, the xB went on to place 2nd and 3rd at a majority of RallyX competitions. Ending up winning its class for the season with the most overall points. You can see more of the HooptieX xB here. HooptieX Driver Spotlight - Tom Watching it rip around his homemade course was the perfect way to cap off the day.
A Thank You to Tom and the Community
We want to thank Tom Sturdy for welcoming the MARS crew into his world, sharing his cars, his stories, and his passion for driving. Tom's enthusiasm for the Mini and his creative approach to car culture remind us why we love doing what we do.
A special thanks also goes out to the community that makes all of this possible. The car world is at its best when it’s inclusive, welcoming enthusiasts of all kinds who believe in getting out there, enjoying their cars, and embracing the driver’s experience. Whether you’re wrenching in the garage, navigating twisty backroads, or sending it at a rallycross event, it’s all about the adventure. Here’s to the cars we love and the people who make them unforgettable.
Photo: Jon Zomer
