AN ICONIC Oxford institution is celebrating its 60th birthday with a throwback to its roots.

Six decades after the first Mini hit production lines, 500 vehicles in the Mini 60 Years Edition design have been built at its Cowley plant.

The anniversary vehicle is the first of many celebrations planned for this landmark year and a limited run will be available at UK retailers nationwide from March for £29,990.

Read again: Race at Silverstone marks Mini's 60th birthday

It features a new British Racing Green IV paint finish and has specific finishes using the 60 Years Emblem.

The British Motor Corporation (BMC) revealed the very first Mini on August 26, 1959, and the brand will champion its rich heritage throughout the year.

Several events will also take place at The British Motor Museum in Gaydon, near Banbury.

This includes a world record attempt for the largest Mini mosaic, using 600 classic Minis and variants to spell out 'Mini 60'.