MINI releases limited Monte-Carlo edition

MINI releases a special edition of their hatchback to celebrate their return to rallying as well as their heritage in it.

After a long hiatus MINI is returning to WRC racing with the family-sized Countryman. To celebrate the occasion they are releasing a limited edition of their popular hatchback dubbed the MINI Monte-Carlo.

The MINI Monte-Carlo is based on the MINI Cooper S and is heavily inspired by the original Mini Cooper that won the Monte Carlo rally three times during the 1960s.

It is finished in red with white racing stripes, the same livery worn by the original Mini Coopers. Four additional lights are mounted on the grille, the bumper incorporates two fog lights and it has specific white decals all around.

Step inside and the rally theme continues. "Monte-Carlo Edition" is stitched into the seat backs and a two-tone red and black steering wheel comes standard. A Monte-Carlo edition key chain bearing the car's number completes the package.

Under the aesthetic modifications lies a 184 horsepower four-cylinder engine borrowed from the MINI Cooper S. It comes standard with a six-speed manual transmission and an automatic transmission is optional.

For those who want more power, the Monte-Carlo can be ordered with certain elements from the John Cooper Works package, including a 200 horsepower engine, beefier brakes, and an aerodynamic body kit.

The Monte-Carlo is a limited edition of only 200 cars throughout Europe. Each one wears its number on the front fenders and on the steering wheel. As a special finishing touch, MINI got Rauno Aaltonen, the Finnish pilot that drove the Mini Coopers to victory in the 1960s, to sign each edition.

The MINI Monte-Carlo is currently available for order and carries a base price of 36,500â,¬, or $49,600.