Latest EVO magazine has a 'Mega Mini test.' :)
"Just about everyone has a fond memory of driving a Mini, but which one from the last 50 years is the most rewarding to drive? Ollie Marriage takes six of the best and heads for the hills."
The contenders:
1964 Mini Cooper S
1969 Mini 1275GT
1998 Mini Cooper Sport
2001 MINI Cooper
2006 MINI GP
2008 MINI JCW

Group photo:
This month's evo, issue 137 | Image | evo (http://www.evo.co.uk/front_website/gallery.php?o=0&id=337120)
Evo Issue 137 (Mini Mania on cover):
This month's evo, issue 137 | Car news | evo (http://www.evo.co.uk/news/evonews/243337/this_months_evo_issue_137.html)