The winning car of the 2024 Hot Wheels Legends Tour UK, hosted by ‘SlammedUK Gravity Show’ at the NEC, was a modified 1983 Austin Mini designed to resemble the classic Bentley Speed 8s of the 1920s. Known as the Mini Mentley, it will represent the UK in the global competition aimed at creating a 1:64 scale die-cast model.
The Mini Mentley started as a track day car but was gradually transformed to its current showpiece status. Under the bonnet, it features a fully engineered 320bhp TVR V8 engine and Range Rover gearbox. With the addition of nitrous through straight exhaust pipes, it is expected to achieve 0-60mph in three seconds in a straight line, provided the driver is bold enough!
The car is owned by a trio of musicians—Dominic Whittle, Gary Selby, and Mike Williams—who use it to travel across Europe with their instruments strapped to the luggage rack, raising money for Save the Children through performances in France, Italy, and Germany.
Dominic Whittle, one of the car’s owners, expressed his excitement at winning the UK round of the Hot Wheels Legends Tour with the Mini Mentley. He mentioned that their passion for cars began at a young age, and it’s fulfilling to now have a vehicle that reflects their childhood memories.
The Mini Mentley beat over 180 entries and impressed the judging panel with its authenticity and character, capturing the essence of the Hot Wheels Legends Tour. Judges scored each entry based on design, authenticity, garage spirit, performance, fun, and the story behind the build.
The UK final, which took place at the Gravity Show, was open to the public and featured a variety of modified and supercars, including the Mini Mentley. The car will now move on to compete in the Global Semi-Final on November 2nd, with the Grand Finale set for November 11th. If successful, it will be transformed into a die-cast model for sale worldwide.
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