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LANDMARK

THE MINI IS FIVE!

The Mini is five!

The Mini went on sale five years ago this week, and after an astounding 100 awards, is definitely being viewed as the automobile success story of the decade. The launch of the Mini on July 7, 2001 created a storm, and the car introduced a new level of quality to the small car market, becoming an instant global success.

Andy Hearn, Mini U.K.'s general manager, said: "The Mini's instant U.K. hit has been mirrored around the world - from South Korea to Spain, the U.S. to China. The car's design, great driving dynamics and ownership experience sets it apart from the competition. Five years on, the Mini is still winning group tests against new competitors, and quality and safety are second to none."

The Mini, which has sold over 800,000 units around the globe in over 70 markets, comes in eight models. All Minis are built at Plant Oxford and a record 200,119 were produced last year.

Apart from winning the admiration of leading publications including Top Gear, The Sun, The Sunday Times, Car, Autocar, Auto Express and What Car, in 2003, the Mini was the first British-built car to win the `North American Car of the Year' Award.

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