Frank Stephenson is a car designer with an impressive resumé. He's the designer behind cars like the Maserati MC12, the Ferrari F430, the Fiat 500, and a host of modern McLarens, including the P1. But perhaps his most iconic design is the reborn Mini Cooper of the 21st century.

Stephenson recently published a video on his YouTube channel explaining the thought process behind his now-iconic modern Mini design. Seeing as how the original Mini hadn't changed its shape for decades, he knew it would be a challenge. Incorporating vintage design into a modern format is a risky move that doesn't always pay off, after all.

But as Stephenson explains, careful consideration of proportions is how he made the then-new Mini work. By taking into account how body lines intersect and how each level (roof, glass section, body) matches with each other, he was able to form the perfect shape. Pushing out the wheel arches to decrease overhangs meant a smaller, tighter appearance, and a sculpted hood with a power bulge gave a sportier look.

But those are just a few of the reasons why the Mini was a success, Stephenson explains. Watch the full video above for the rest.

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