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| Made in the UK |
| Small but perfectly formed |
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The Mini Cooper demonstrated its considerable racing
pedigree in the 1960s by winning the Monte Carlo Rally three
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A unique and enduring example of the best in British engineering
and design is the Mini, undoubtedly one of the 'cars of the
century'.
The original 1959 Mini designed by Alex Issigonis was
revolutionary: it was the first car of its size to have front-wheeldrive
and a transversely-mounted engine. Because of this, it
handled superbly, accelerated quickly and out-manoeuvred
larger cars. The Mini Cooper demonstrated its considerable racing
pedigree in the 1960s by winning the Monte Carlo Rally three
times but attained its iconic status largely because of its
three starring roles alongside Michael Caine and Noel Coward
in The Italian Job (1969). The red, blue and white Minis featured
in the film firmly established Mini as a dynamic and stylish
UK brand.
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| The original Mini was seen as a car for the people and cost less
than £500. Although it quickly became an essential fashion
accessory during the 1960s, it remained affordable and appealed
to every social class. This has been the case ever since and the
Mini has become a national institution. The modern Mini range,
manufactured by BMW, combines the very latest in technical
innovation, including satellite navigation and cornering brake
control (CBC), with traditional brand values and quality.
Madonna is just one of countless proud Mini owners living in
the UK in 2003. 'I drive my Mini Cooper,' she sings on American
Life, 'and I'm feeling super dooper!'
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