Mini love: how a childhood memory inspired a car club movement

WHAT began as cherished childhood memories of his grandfather’s Mini has evolved into a passionate community for Durban’s Asif Khan.

Now the proud owner of four vintage Minis, Khan leads regular Mini Car Runs that bring together enthusiasts from across the region, celebrating these iconic small cars that continue to turn heads on South African roads.

Khan, of Effingham, recalled that his love for cars started when he was 6-years-old and his grandfather’s friend, a Mr Jaffer, would pick him up from school on a Friday to go to mosque.

“I remember getting into the back seat of the car, holding on to the two front seats, and driving to the mosque. It was one the happiest times of my life and one of my favourite memories of my grandfather,” said.

Years later, when Khan attended the then University of Natal, he made friends with other students who owned vintage Minis.

“It was the go-to car for young students at the time. We would all hop into the cars and go for drives or get a lift from those owning this car. By this time, my grandfather, Mohamed Khan had passed on and his friend had moved away. But I still had the love and connection for the Mini,” said Khan.

Years later, in 2013, Khan bought his first car – a Mini Clubman, which he still owns.Twelve years later, Khan owns four Minis. Over the years he has bought, re-modelled and sold a few of his Minis. The latest was a Mini Clubman, 1275E, which he sold last year to a UK Mini enthusiast.

Khan said the Mini was a conversation starter.“Everywhere I go with any of my Minis, people stop andask me about my car. This gave birth to the local Mini Run,” he added.

He said nine-years ago, a group of vintage Mini lovers began meeting occasionally on weekends when they would go on a drive together, have a meal, talk about their cars and life in general.

He said soon, more people joined the club.Now, the Vintage Mini Run has about a dozen cars, driven by their owners with family and friends joining the road trip.

Members usually meet at a central point, often Blue Lagoon and the route is discussed on their WhatsApp group.

The Japanese Garden is also a favourite meeting spot, but the rides take them along the north coast to Waterbrook, and inland to Pietermaritzburg.Khan believes the allure of the car is because of its size.

“People love looking at the small cars, especially when big-sized and tall people drive them. Sometimes we have people videoing us and they are always waving and cheering us on. You don’t see many Minis on the road but when you do, there is always the affection for the car. People just love this beautiful little car," he said.

Khan said the most common question Mini owners were asked was if their car was for sale.

“Unfortunately, this is no longer a cheap car to own. Besides being discounted by the manufacturer, there are no longer places in South Africa where we can get spare parts. So, we have to get it from the United Kingdom. Most owners who have rebuilt their cars, don’t part with it,” he said.

KwaMashu resident Wade Zuma shares Khan’s passion for the Mini.

“Minis are a living piece of history on four wheels. Ever since I first sat in one, I have been hooked. The way complete strangers smile when they see it is what I love most about it.It brings me joy. It was never about speed or luxury, rather character, ingenuity, and fun.

"Working on my car has become more than a hobby. It is therapy, a way of slowing down and connecting with her.

“Every time I drive I’m reminded it’s not just a car, it’s a personality on wheels. My passion for the Mini is really a passion for joy, nostalgia, and the simple things that never go out of style,” said Zuma.“

"My own story with the Mini deepened when I met Asif Khan. I was stuck on the side of the road, and instead of just offering help and moving on, he introduced me to Mini Old School – a club made up entirely of classicMinis. Since then, it’s been Sunday runs, road trips, annual holidays and a true sense of brotherhood with people who understand why we love these little cars so much,” he added

To join, or for more information on the Mini Run, Khan can be contacted at 082 872 9558.