Mini JCW GP full details
Limited-edition GP is a very serious Mini, but a very expensive one too...
So what will those buyers get? Well, the 1.6-litre twin-scroll turbocharged engine from the regular Cooper S has been treated to an aluminium block, reinforced pistons and a lighter crank. It produces the same 218hp as the last JCW GP. When combined with 192lb ft of torque (an overboosted 207 is also there for short periods) and a 1,160kg kerb weight, the JCW GP will hit 0-62mph in 6.3 seconds and run to 150mph. A 'GP mode' has been added to the stability control, decoupling it from the traction control. An LSD-aping electronic differential remains to transmit the engine's power to the road.
Spolier now functional; vents still just for show
Braking performance is provided by 330mm (front) and 280mm (rear) brakes. They lurk beneath 17-inch, four-spoke alloy wheels unique to the GP and near-identical to those of the last car. These comprehensive performance modifications have allowed a JCW GP to lap the Nordschleife in 8min 23seconds, 18 seconds faster than the last GP. Not quite a Renaultsport Megane then, but very far from a disappointing time.
Red trinkets unfortunately standard with JCW GP
A Mini with adjustable suspension, bigger brakes, new engine components, an 8:23 Nordschleife time ... it's bound to be expensive, right? Well yeah, actually, it is. The Mini JCW GP will cost £28,790. Though not much in a Mini universe where a £29k JCW Coupe can be found, it seems costly when compared to other hot hatches; you want a limited-edition rival? A DS3 Racing was £23,100. Track focused mechanical changes more your thing? Take a look at the £22K Corsa VXR Nurburgring. But if you really want to be 'ring daddy, though, it should be remembered the FWD record-holding Renaultsport Megane 265 is £26,040. And don't forget the recently reduced Subrau Impreza STI is now £27k. Still, you pay your money...
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Interesting that they have stuck 17" wheels on it though and good to see they have obviously gone for handling rather than appearance in this regard.
The mk1 GP by all accounts does still attract a reasonable premium over a "standard" Works Mini and, I am sure, people will no doubt go for the new one too. It certainly sounds like it has substance, if somewhat lacking in style.
In a perverse kind of way though, it does make some sense stlyed as it is; by ditching the back seats it is then absolutely a 2 seater but with a bit more luggage space should you need it (the Mini's boot is truly woeful and I used to have the back seats down most of the time anyway). OK, it can never offer the 4-up space of, say a Megane RS, but then again when you're out for a hoon you don't want a fully laden car.
It will definitely be quick. Cross country, my old Works with circa 215bhp was mega.
Like the rest of it but disappointed it comes with standard seats at that price.
1315 kg =
Surprised they are THAT heavy.
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