Cooper is primarily known for its involvement in motorsports, particularly Formula One racing. The company was founded by Charles Cooper and his son John Cooper in Surbiton, Surrey, England, in the late 1940s. They initially focused on building racing cars for Formula Three and Formula Two competitions.

One of Cooper’s most significant achievements came in 1959 when they won the Formula One World Championship with their Cooper T51 car driven by Jack Brabham. This victory marked the first time a British-built car and a rear-engined car had won the championship, revolutionizing the design of Formula One cars.

Cooper’s success in Formula One continued into the 1960s, with additional championship wins in 1960 and 1966. The company’s innovative approach to car design, particularly its use of rear-mounted engines, influenced the entire motorsports industry.

In addition to Formula One, Cooper also produced road-going sports cars, such as the Cooper T43 and Cooper T56 models. These cars were known for their performance and handling characteristics, making them popular among driving enthusiasts.

While Cooper is best remembered for its racing cars and contributions to motorsports, the company’s legacy extends beyond Formula One. Cooper’s innovative designs and engineering expertise left a lasting impact on the automotive industry, influencing future generations of racing cars and road cars alike.