The Engine Swap Nobody Saw Coming | MiniRex

Home Built EJ25 Swapped MiniRex: A Subaru-Powered, Mid-Engined Mini Masterpiece

We've seen our fair share of engine-swapped Minis, from Honda's B and K series to Suzuki Hayabusa motorcycle engines, but this EJ25-powered Mini takes things to the next level. Steve from ‪Dutchy's Garage‬ has crafted something truly unique: a 1961 Morris Mini transformed into a mid-engined, RWD beast, all thanks to the heart of a 2010 Subaru WRX EJ25.

This 'MiniRex' stole the show for us in the World Time Attack Challenge carpark, with Steve personally handling 99% of the build himself —impressive work, especially given Australia’s strict vehicle regulations, which was one of the reasons for using an older pre-1973 chassis. The impressive 1-man-band craftsmanship and road-legal engineering make this build a real standout, combining eye-catching aesthetics (who doesn't love a sunroof!) with serious performance potential.

Key Build Details:

- 1961 Morris Mini – Mid-engined, RWD conversion
- Subaru EJ25 engine: Essentially stock, producing 250hp and 400Nm of torque
- Haltech Elite 2500 ECU with an iC7 dash, sensors, and wiring harness
- Process West intercooler for added cooling performance
- 3.9 final drive ratio for optimal gearing and acceleration of the 15" wheels
- Mazda MX5/Miata suspension, hubs, and subframe integration
- Viking coil-overs
- Subaru inner CVs, custom axles, Mazda outer CVs
- 2003 BMW Mini panoramic sunroof – because style matters too!
- An unbelievable power-to-weight ratio, making this Mini a true sleeper

If you're into unconventional engine swaps and unique performance builds, this one is definitely for you. Watch as we dive into the details of this incredible Mini and why it’s got us so excited!
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TIME STAMPS:
0:00 - Steve - Dutchy's Garage
0:22 - Why An EJ25?
0:56 - Fully Road Legal - Mid-Engined
1:36 - Drivetrain
2:19 - Fabrication & Box Chassis
2:50 - Servicing: Planned Ahead
3:02 - Glass Firewall
3:42 - MX5 Suspension: Double Wishbone
3:59 - Viking Coilover
4:10 - Subframes
4:36 - Engine & Power
5:08 - No More Torque Steer!
5:31 - Compared To FWD B16 Swapped Mini
5:47 - Haltech Electronics Package
6:12 - Added Upgrades
6:49 - Where Did Steve Get These Skills?
7:12 - No CAD
7:41 - Dutchy's Garage
8:00 - BUILD.TUNE.DRIVE