MINI to re-enter professional rallying in 2011

A sketch of the Prodrive Mini Countryman WRC car

MINI has announced that it will re-enter professional rallying arena in 2011 when it competes in the World Rally Championship.

The iconic brand is looking at regaining some of its past racing glory with the Prodrive Mini Countryman as their rally car of choice. Back in the 1960s MINI was a regular on the rally circuit and won many races including the Monte Carlo Rally (thrice) and the European Rally Championship in 1965.

Developed jointly by renowned tuners Prodrive and BMW Motorsports the Mini Countryman WRC car is based on the Mini Countryman S. It’s powered by a turbocharged 1.6-litre four-cylinder engine and features four-wheel drive.

MINI will only compete in select rounds of the 2011 World Rally Championship but will contest the entire season in 2012.