End of an era as Mini Cooper makes final bow.

An era of world motorsport will come to an end this weekend, as the Mini Cooper makes its final appearance in the World Rally Championship in Rally Australia.

The small car, most famous for its exploits in the Monte Carlo Rally back in the 1960's, will no longer be eligible for competition in 2005.

Three old style Minis were due to compete in the event, but only one multi point injection machine has made it to Australia, to be driven by Trevor Godwin and co-driver Ian Harrop.

"This is the end of the road for a special car, the last chance to see it on the world stage," Godwin told Britains Independent newspaper. "We were determined to get down to Australia and make sure we gave it this final run.

"It is sad to think that after 45 years this car won't be competing in world rallying again, and it's bound to be a weekend of mixed emotions. We're all going to be reminded of its wonderful history.

"But the important thing now is for us to ensure the Mini goes out in style. We've no intention of just crawling around to the finish. We're going to give it a go and try to compete properly. This car deserves nothing less."

With local volunteers working to service the car throughout the event, Godwin is in no doubt as to which car will be the most popular car in the rally.

"The response we've had has been terrific," he said, "and the Rally Australia people [who paid the airfare] were obviously keen to get us down here. We've competed in something like 20 WRC rallies in Minis and we've always done it on the cheap, so this is nothing unusual for us. It's just a pity the other lads couldn't make it, because that would have been a truly great way to finish.

"At least we're here. We won't be able to compete with the top cars of the top teams, who spend millions and have scores of mechanics. But I'm sure there will be no more popular car on this rally than our Mini."

The single point injection Mini made its final WRC appearance on last seasons Wales Rally GB - taking first in class.