The sportiest and fastest production model ever built under the nameplate of this British premium brand, Mini, the MINI John Cooper Works GP is all set to hit the North American shore in the on going L.A Auto Show. And production of just 2,000 units worldwide has begun this autumn. For the US, only 500 will be imported, and will be priced at $39,950 (includes $700 Destination and Handling charge).
Under the hood of the two-seater, it houses an extensively modified 1.6 liter four-cylinder turbocharged engine capable of developing 211 hp at its maximum at 6,000 rpm, and up to 207 lb-ft of torque with the overboost function. The whole setup is mated to a six-speed manual transmission. And to ensure a safe and smooth handling and an exhilarating driving experience, there is an adjustable coilover suspension as well as an extra-powerful sports brake system, model-specific alloy wheels and sports tires. The car can do a 0 to 60 mph sprint in less than 5.9 seconds, adn reach a top speed of 150 mph.
On the outside, the car features racing-derived sports brake system, featuring six-piston fixed-calliper disc brakes, the front discs are 330 millimeters (13.0 inches) in diameter and 25 millimeters (.98 inches) thick, with 280 x 10 mm (11.02 x .39 inch) discs at the rear. The low-weight 17-inch alloy wheels, again exclusive to the MINI John Cooper Works GP, run on high-performance 215/40 R17 sport tires. The signature GP four-spoke alloy wheels, measuring 17 x 7.5 inches, were specially developed for the MINI John Cooper Works GP and are derived from the MINI Challenge race car, and feature lightweight contours on flow-formed rims. The car features a paint job, in an exclusive color, Thunder Grey metallic, with red for the edging round the bonnet opening as well as for the exterior mirror caps and the side air intakes in the front apron. John Cooper Works insignia appearing on the lower air intake and the tailgate. The final proof of identity is provided by “GP”-badged side stripes running between the front and rear wheel arches.
Some standard features seen on the Cooper includes, black xenon headlights in black shells, fog lamps, automatic climate control, alarm, DSC with special GP mode, and a Sport button, large front and rear aprons, striking side sills and model-specific roof spoiler, rear diffuser, with the underside panels and the roof-edge spoiler, add to the charm of the Cooper.
Inside the cooper, one gets to see, Recaro sports seats with special GP stitching, a rear brace is added, tubular brace is bright red, Silver end caps, A cargo guard, thick-rimmed leather steering wheel and the gearshift knob with chrome ring and red shift diagram, anthracite roof liner, the piano black interior surfaces and door grips, and the anthracite tachometer and speedometer dials.
Take a look at the pictures and stay tuned for more updates.
