Wood & Pickett Mini by CALLUM – Bespoke British Icon
The debut of the Wood and Pickett Mini by CALLUM unites two storied British names and places international style authority David Gandy behind the wheel of the first example. Gandy’s choice signals confidence in the project’s blend of heritage, performance and meticulous craftsmanship, and his involvement propels the car from concept to road-ready reality.
CALLUM refines the classic Mini silhouette by starting with a fully restored Mk5 Sportspack shell, before fitting bespoke front and rear valances, side sills, and a re-profiled tail. Engineers shape these elements to improve aerodynamics and cooling, while a proprietary Anthracite metal finish gives the diminutive icon a crisp, modern edge. Reimagined lighting units sit beneath authentic Wood & Pickett arches, fusing contemporary detailing with recognised coachbuilt cues.
Inside, CALLUM reinterprets Wood and Pickett’s celebrated “Margrave” dashboard, integrating precision-milled bezels, a tactile ‘Piano’ switch pack and seats upholstered in warm Tan Bridge of Weir leather. Every stitch honours British craftsmanship while catering to daily use, ensuring the cabin feels both luxurious and purposeful.
A newly rebuilt 1310 cc Stage 3 road-rally engine now delivers 110 bhp. Tuned ECU mapping, a performance cylinder head, and twin-point injection sharpen throttle response, while a bespoke twin-exit exhaust ends in an upswept tailpipe that adds visual drama.
Callum calibrates the suspension for confident road manners, fits vented and grooved 8.4-inch discs for assured braking, and designs exclusive 13-inch alloy wheels to complete the chassis package. Refinements to noise, vibration and harshness allow the driver to enjoy spirited performance without sacrificing comfort.
“The Mini is one of the most important cars ever created, not just for its innovative engineering, but for what it represents culturally as a symbol of British ingenuity and style,” stated Ian Callum CBE. “It’s a car that broke the rules and became a global icon. To reimagine it through the lens of CALLUM, with Wood and Pickett’s craftsmanship, has been deeply rewarding.”
David Gandy collaborated directly with the design team, selecting the paint finish and interior materials to ensure the Mini mirrors his aesthetic. “The Wood and Pickett Mini by CALLUM embodies everything I love about automotive craftsmanship, bespoke, attention to detail, and, of course, performance,” he said. “I’m proud to be the first owner of such a remarkable vehicle.”
Hand-built in the UK and limited to a small production run starting at £75,000, each Wood and Pickett Mini by CALLUM becomes a one-off commission shaped by its owner. As this redefined British icon returns to the road, it heralds a fresh era of coachbuilt motoring where timeless design meets modern engineering and individual expression.
