MINI sells for €150,000 for charity

The bespoke MINI built for this year's Life Ball fetched the largest sum ever recorded at the event when it went under the hammer on Saturday.  The Roberto Cavalli-designed MINI Paceman sold for a massive €150,000; all of which goes to various projects to fight HIV/AIDS.

"We are very pleased that the one-off MINI has sold for a record price and can thus make a special contribution to projects dedicated to fighting HIV/AIDS," commented Ralf Schepull, Head of MINI Brand Communications. "Charity is an important part of the MINI brand, which enjoys a unique platform through this partnership with the Life Ball."

Since 2001 a different designer has crafted individual MINI models to be auctioned off at the presentation evening each year; with Diesel, Versace and DSQUARED2 all doing their bit for the cause.  This year's Cavalli attempt sports gold detailing on the roof, wheels and interior trim, as well as an iridescent paint finish that goes from black to brown depending on the angle of the light.  It certainly got noticed when Cavalli himself drove it down the event's Magenta Carpet.

The 2013 model is based on the seventh member of the MINI family - the Paceman.  Previous incarnations have included the Clubman, Coupé and Roadster.

As well as MINI's significant contribution, this year's event also saw celebrities such as Sir Elton John, Bill Clinton, Hilary Swank, Carmen Electra and Fergie come together in order to raise awareness of the HIV/AIDS virus.