A true British classic recognised the world over; the quintessentially British Mini. Despite many changes of ownership and fortune, the Mini continues to be made in the UK with parts that are 60% sourced from the UK. This makes it one of the most British of all cars assembled in Britain.
Launched in 1959 as the British answer to the hugely popular VW Beetle, the Mini has earned a cult following over the years. Legend has it that it was designed on the back of a napkin with the sole design brief being that the passenger and luggage space should account for 80% of the car - a huge amount given the space needed for the engine and gearbox and a hence a design triumph.
Having been part of British Leyland and then Rover/BMW, the Mini name was retained by BMW when they sold Rover. With Rover having gone into receivership and ultimately sold to China, the Mini stands alone as one of the true greats of the British automobile industry.
The original was built in Longbridge, Birmingham and Cowley, Oxford with panels pressed in Swindon, Wiltshire. The new Mini, launched in 2001 is now built in Cowley. BMW have launched a range of additions to the classic range as well as an all new model in 2006. Manufacture continues in Oxford.
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