Meet NAKO

In the days following Ryan’s passing, we found ourselves searching for ways, both large and small, to feel closer to her. Whether it was holding one of her toys, looking at photos, watching home videos, or simply spending countless hours reflecting, anything that brought Ryan a little closer brought comfort. It didn’t take long before we felt the urge to purchase a life-size version of the little red Matchbox MINI Cooper she loved so much. How could we not feel close to Ryan sitting in her favorite car?

Just two weeks after her passing, we made the first of several trips to our local MINI dealership. Simply being around the MINIs brought comfort. But after that first visit, we realized that a decision as big as buying a car probably shouldn’t be made in the throes and immense power of grief.

NAKO at MINI of Sterling

As the months passed and the Matchbox MINI treasure hunt continued, the idea of owning a life-size version of Ryan’s little red MINI never left our minds or hearts. Every time a MINI drove by—especially a red one—it was almost as if Ryan was urging us on. And once Ryan’s MINI Adventure was born, well, it was a given. There just had to be a Ryan’s BIG MINI.

MINI Coopers are meant to be personalized. With so many options, each one can reflect the personality of its owner. Once conceived and ordered, MINIs are lovingly assembled and brought to life in Oxford, England.

Ryan’s BIG MINI is as close to her little Matchbox MINI as we could make it—with the exception of heated seats and satellite radio. She would have liked that! Every time we see it, wash it, or drive it, Ryan feels just a little bit closer. It is a symbol of her youth, her endless joy, the things she loved, and her sense of fun and adventure.

MINIs are fun cars that have a way of making both drivers and passengers smile. We can’t imagine a better car to represent the spirit of a little girl who brought so much joy to everyone around her.

Ryan had good taste. And her parents are very appreciative.

Ryan’s Big MINI – “NAKO”

NAKO – The Story Behind the Name

Ryan had a wonderful imagination. Once, when asked who her favorite Disney Princess was, she pointed to the princess in the pink dress on her new bed sheets. When we asked what the princess’s name was, Ryan confidently told us, “The heart of the Princess’ name was NAKO.” Of course, she was making it up, but we all had a good laugh.

In the MINI community, owners often give their MINIs names. So when Ryan’s BIG MINI arrived, the search for the perfect name began. It didn’t take long for us to remember the day Ryan named her favorite princess. And just like that, Ryan’s BIG MINI became NAKO.

The Name NAKO Is Born
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All About NAKO

Name
NAKO #03
Date of Birth
October 2008
Place of Birth
Oxford, England
Hours in Labor
5 days
Number Produced
1
Model
2009 MINI Cooper S
Engine
4 Cylinder TURBO!
Color
Chili Red
1st Passenger
Ryan’s Baby Sarah
Accent
British
Dealership
MINI of Sterling
MINI Motoring Advisor
Ahmed

Meet NAKO

NAKO does the Tail of the Dragon