MINI John Cooper Works GP Officially Revealed

Luke Vandezande
by Luke Vandezande

Despite the information leaking early, as it so often does, the MINI JCW GP was just officially released, confirming the specifications that leaked yesterday.

With more horsepower, an overboost function that takes torque to the next level and loads of performance parts, the hottest MINI to date is a track-ready road car. At 218 hp and 192 lb-ft of torque at 1,750 rpm, the little car proved to be a real rocket while running around the Nurburgring, setting a 8:23 lap time on the North Loop.

Further emphasizing the car’s track ready handling, MINI increased camber on both the front and rear tires in an effort to improve grip and steering during high-speed driving. Sitting inside those tires, larger six-piston brake calipers squeeze the vented front disc brakes to offer better stopping power than lesser models.

Drag is also reduced thanks to a fully-enclosed underside, rear diffuser, new rear spoiler and front bumper modifications. An individually adjustable coilover suspension will also allow for the car to be lowered as much as 20 millimeters (.79 inches).

The car will be produced in a limited run of only 2,000 units. Pricing has only been announced for the U.K. so far at £28,790 which converts to about $45,850, though that isn’t an accurate reflection of what to expect. Expect the car to make an appearance later this month during the Paris Motor Show.

GALLERY: MINI John Cooper Works GP

Luke Vandezande
Luke Vandezande

Luke is an energetic automotive journalist who spends his time covering industry news and crawling the internet for the latest breaking story. When he isn't in the office, Luke can be found obsessively browsing used car listings, drinking scotch at his favorite bar and dreaming of what to drive next, though the list grows a lot faster than his bank account. He's always on <A title="@lukevandezande on Twitter" href="http://twitter.com/lukevandezande">Twitter</A> looking for a good car conversation. Find Luke on <A title="@lukevandezande on Twitter" href="http://twitter.com/lukevandezande">Twitter</A> and <A title="Luke on Google+" href="http://plus.google.com/112531385961538774338?rel=author">Google+</A>.

More by Luke Vandezande

Comments
Join the conversation
Next