Car of the century

Monday 08 September 1997 23:02 BST

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

1. Gave the miniskirt its name.

2. Started life as a doodle on a cigarette packet by the original designer, Sir Alec Issigonis.

3. First British car to win the Rally

Championship in 1965.

4. Since production began in 1959, 5.3m have been built.

5. James Weatherley was jailed for 5 years for stealing red Minis.

6. Celebrity owners of minis included King Hussein of Jordan, all The Beatles, Princess Michael, Steve McQueen and Cliff Richard.

7. Peter Sellers had a Mini with canework body panels

8. The car was originally launched under two names: Austin Seven and the Mini Minor.

9. Starred with Michael Caine in The Italian Job.

10. Voted the Car of the Century in 1996 by Autocar

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Stay up to date with notifications from The Independent

Thank you for registering

Car of the century

Join our commenting forum

Thank you for registering