Which colour Mini sells best?

At Phil Mires Classic Cars, we’ve seen countless Minis come and go, each with its own personality, charm, and story. One question we’re asked time and again is: what colour Mini should I buy?

Choosing a Mini isn’t just about price or model; colour plays a huge role. It reflects style, heritage, and sometimes even resale value. If you want something classic, something that turns heads, or a colour that’s in demand - there’s a shade for every vibe.

Iconic Mini colours through the years

When you picture a classic Mini, you probably imagine the shades of red, white or blue on display in The Italian Job. These colours are closely linked to Britain’s motoring history, helping the Mini become a recognisable symbol of national pride. Iconic tones like British Racing Green, Old English White, Solar Red, Brooklands Green and Tahiti Blue instantly link to the car’s British heritage.

Since the Mini’s relaunch, blue has appeared in a variety of shades, from Electric Blue to Lapisluxury Blue. Whereas red, white and green continue to honour the traditional features that make the Classic Mini so iconic. These colours aren’t just about looks; they convey personality, nostalgia and character.

What the data says about popularity

Looking at the current second-hand market in the UK reveals clear trends:

• White is the most common colour among used Minis - as seen in this 1994 Classic Rover - making up around 29.5% of the market.
• Black follows at 17%, while blue accounts for about 16%.

Grey, while hugely popular across the broader UK car market, is less prevalent among older Minis. It’s more common in recent models, so if you’re looking for a modern Mini, grey could be an option, but for a classic feel, heritage colours still reign supreme.

Choosing a colour: popularity vs personality

When deciding what colour Mini to buy, it helps to balance popularity with personal preference:

• White: safe, timeless and appealing. Moves quickly in the second-hand market. However, it highlights even the smallest of imperfections.
• Black: sleek, classic and popular with buyers, but may require more maintenance to keep spotless.
• Blue: versatile, modern, and full of Mini character. Stands out without being too bold.
• Green: British Racing Green or Brooklands Green appeals to enthusiasts and purists. Unique, iconic and full of personality.
• Red: bold, sporty and eye-catching. Nostalgic English appeal, though relatively common on classic Minis and prone to sun fading.

Ultimately, popularity matters if resale value or quick sale is important. But the best colour is also the one that makes you smile every time you open the door.

Extra tips for buyers

• Consider the condition and originality of the paintwork. Even a popular colour can lose appeal if poorly maintained.
• Look at heritage trims and interior combinations. A British Racing Green Mini with original tan leather or a Flame Red Mini with racing stripes can add character.
• Think about your lifestyle. Darker colours like Anthracite, Tahiti Blue and Nightfire Red are easier to keep clean in city driving, while light colours like Old English White may show dirt more quickly.

So, what colour Mini should you buy?

If you’re looking for the current most popular options, then white, black and blue are safe choices. For those who love classic style and heritage, British Racing Green or Flame Red adds personality and keeps the spirit of the Mini alive. Rarer hues such as Volcano Orange, Amaranth and Surf Blue often appeal to collectors and can command higher prices. Grey may work for modern Minis, but it doesn’t yet capture the character of the car’s traditional palette. However, the condition and provenance of the car is far more important than its colour.

At Phil Mires Classic Cars, we believe that choosing a Mini colour is about more than statistics. It’s about owning a piece of history, expressing your style.

Thinking of buying a Classic Mini, restoring one or needing advice on what colour works best - contact us. We’d love to help you find a classic Mini that’s perfect for you.