Many Mini Memories

Thu, Jul 8, 2010

News

Rauno Aaltonen and Paddy Hopkirk are paying a visit to the twisting streets of Monte Carlo, where they celebrated their greatest victories at the Rallye Monte Carlo in 1963/64.

This time they aren’t driving their Mini from the 60′s,  now the duo drives a brand new MINI John Cooper Works Cabrio. The car and the tricky corners bring back lots of memories, go-kart feeling and driving excitement. You can see the rally legends driving through Monte Carlo passing famous places such as Col de Braus, Col de Torini.

I pray that when I’m a geezer (next year) that I’ll be anywhere near as sharp as this two.

The Mini was never designed to be a racer, but it sure became one. Paddy Hopkirk, Timo Makinen, and Rauno Aaltonen team to take the overall victory at the 1964 Rallye Monte Carlo. Hopkirk backs it up with another win in 1965, but is denied the hat-trick in ’66 when the entry is disqualified by the French officials…over illegal driving lights. Poetic justice: Mini wins again in ’67. (source: Pakwheels.com)

Thanks to Tim for the scoop!

***Update 7/18/2010***
Aki sends word from Japan to say that the Mini was VERY popular over there and they were totally stoked at the 35th anniversary Monte Carlo run back in 1994.  You can see some video of the tiny Mini competing HERE> and a commemorative remote control car HERE>

4 Responses to “Many Mini Memories”

  1. Tim Says:

    They seem so nonchalant as they blast through the course. That car sounds great.

    Reply

  2. Vdubjer Says:

    Would it be true to say they actually missed the 3-Peat, but pulled the Hat Trick with the win in ’67?

    Reply

  3. Brad Robinson Says:

    Man, that is something to watch isn,t it , i guess to them its like riding a pushbike–once learned never forgotten.

    Reply

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