2008 MINI John Cooper Works

Highlights

• Extensively tuned JCW MINI
• Engine uprated to around 244 hp
• Suspension, transmission and brake modifications
• Featured in Performance Mini magazine
• Custom red and black livery

Overview

Since they first emerged from the primordial swamp, Minis have always been a popular choice for people who enjoy tinkering and fettling. Even ‘modern’ examples now have a dedicated band of enthusiasts striving to improve their performance. And this is where Bad Boy Performance comes in, a professional father and son team who have been working their magic to summon the spirit of John Cooper and do him proud.

This car features a tuned engine for increased power and responsiveness, making it suitable for both track and road use. Original JCW MINIs of this era managed to produce 205hp, but the team who built this one have brought that up to 244 hp. The suspension system has also been improved to offer precise handling, along with upgraded brakes

Inside, this MINI has a stripped-out interior, reducing weight by removing the rear seats and trim. The utilitarian design enhances performance and gives the car a distinctive feel. In contrast, the front remains mostly unchanged, other than the bucket seats, harnesses, and a Coolerworx short shift gear lever.

The exterior is highlighted by a custom vinyl wrap, setting this MINI apart with its unique look. And the front splitter, Yokohama tyres, and TRS tow straps all add to the car’s track aesthetic. In all, it offers a well-rounded package for those seeking a straightforward, focused driving experience with added power and precision.

History and documentation

• Registered 22 Jul 2008
• Two keys
• Current MOT expires 31 Jan 2025
• HPI clear
• Only 63,000 miles recorded
• Registered as London ULEZ compliant
• Featured in ‘Performance Mini’ magazine (Dec/Jan 2022 issue)
• Built by the owners of Bad Boy Tuning as their own personal car

Interior

• The interior has been built to be functional for track use, while still allowing the car to be driven without too much faff
• All the carpets and upholstery are very clean and tidy
• The headlining remains in place
• Original door cards and dashboard
• Coolerworx short shift gear lever
• To the rear, the trim has been stripped for added lightness
• Corbeau Sprint X racing bucket seats
• There is a an airbag warning light illuminated due to the fitment of the bucket seats; the originals are also supplied which will extinguish the light
• TRS four-point harnesses
• Custom-made steering wheel

Exterior

• The red paint is precisely the right colour for a tuned MINI
• We could only see a few small, unobtrusive scratches and chips
• Matte black Bad Boy Tuning wrap
• RPM front splitter
• TRS tow strap
• Team Dynamics 7x17-inch Pro Race 1.2 alloy wheels
• Yokohama tyres
• Union Jack taillight clusters
• Front sunstrip

Mechanical

• According to the accompanying magazine article, the car’s engine upgrades are as follows: 1.6-litre turbocharged Prince engine, hybrid turbocharger with Airtec intercooler, Pipercross air filter, Scorpion sports catalytic converter, downpipe, and non-resonated exhaust, carbon-fibre Ascari exhaust tips, GFB DV+ diverter valve, ‘Rabbid’ remap, Silicone hoses, Forge turbocharger blanket

• These modifications are reported to bring the power up to 244 hp

• There's also a Sachs performance clutch and uprated dual mass flywheel and a Coolerworx short shifter

• Suspension improvements include: MeisterR Clubrace coilover shock absorbers, Silver Projects adjustable control arms, SuperPro rear anti-roll bar, SuperPro front and rear ‘D’ bushes and an Ultra Racing front Strut Brace

• The brakes feature Reyland 330mm J-hook discs, alloy bells, AP Racing calipers, braided hoses and uprated brake fluid

• The only current MOT advisory is for a slightly binding rear brake

Summary

Clearly a huge amount of careful consideration and expertise has gone into the design of this car. Almost everything that could be improved has been, with no stone left unturned. And the final result is a car which you’ll be itching to take onto a track at the earliest possible opportunity.

So if you’re looking for an easy way to own a tuned MINI where all the hard work has already been done, then this car’s your answer.

To arrange a viewing, please request this in the Q&A section. You can click through to the seller's profile and use the 'Email Me' function to arrange a viewing privately. This seller is located near Billingshurst, West Sussex.