Race is on for new MINI John Cooper Works CHALLENGE

MINI performance is to be taken to new levels with the new MINI John Cooper Works CHALLENGE, a MINI Cooper S built specifically for track use and ready to race. Set for its first public appearance at the forthcoming IAA Motor Show in Frankfurt, deliveries of the new car will take place from spring 2008.
Key characteristics of the new car include a higher top speed, increased torque, faster acceleration and optimised traction. Performance figures are detailed in the attached document.

Power enhancements are at the core of the striking CHALLENGE car’s modifications. As well as a re-developed twin-scroll turbocharger, the standard MINI Cooper S engine receives modified pistons, air filter, air intake passage, catalytic converter, exhaust components, electronic sensors and engine management system.




Numerous chassis and suspension tweaks add to what is a finely-tuned racing package. The new suspension system features adjustable damper units from KW Automotive, designed specifically for motorsport. A six-speed manual gearbox transmits power to 17” front wheels made by Borbet and shod with exclusive new racing tyres manufactured by Dunlop.

Body revisions based on the John Cooper Works Aerodynamic Kit, currently available from all MINI dealers, are key features of the CHALLENGE car’s set-up. To generate increased downforce at higher speeds, CHALLENGE car owners can expect a new adjustable rear spoiler, rear diffuser and performance front spoiler. The new braking system performs exceptionally. Large four-piston calipers mean the car can go from 62 – 0mph in just 3.1 seconds. A race-specific ABS configuration and an air-pressure elevating system complete the product modifications, which together equate to a vehicle 30kg lighter than the previous CHALLENGE car.

Safety measures perfect the array of MINI CHALLENGE car features. A roll cage welded firmly to the body of the car houses RECARO bucket seats combined with a six-point safety belt, along with the HANS (Head And Neck Support) system used in Formula 1 cars.

Although the car is designed for race participation, private owners may find owning a MINI CHALLENGE car a compelling prospect. However, the car will not be licensed for public roads and as such is expected to maintain its appeal among racing enthusiasts.

The MINI Challenge race series is fast gaining presence and popularity around the world. Since 2004, Challenge races have been staged in Germany, the Netherlands, Belgium, Austria and New Zealand. In 2008, MINI Australia will also hold a Challenge competition.

Race teams will receive the first MINI CHALLENGE cars from March 2008. Private customers not competing in the MINI Challenge series can expect deliveries of cars from June 2008. An order form for the car can be downloaded from 11 September 2007 at www.MINI.com/challenge-car and the expected price is €49,900 inc. VAT.

text from MINI press

New John Cooper Works kit for UK roads

MINI Cooper S. Great driving. The end? Fans of the British-built sports hatch will be delighted to learn that the story continues with the launch of an all-new John Cooper Works tuning kit. MINI Cooper S owners will be able to add the aftermarket kit for just £1,095 inc. VAT, plus approximately four hours fitting.

The 1.6 litre twin-scroll turbo engine in the MINI Cooper S receives a power increase to 192 hp, from the standard unit’s 175 hp. Maximum torque is extended from 240 Nm to 250 Nm and is available between 1750 and 5000 rpm. As with the standard car, an Overboost facility is available for faster power deployment and the Works kit means drivers will feel the full force of 270 Nm through the MINI’s front wheels under hard acceleration. The increased power results in a 0-62 time of 6.8 seconds, and top speed of 144 mph.

External John Cooper Works branding on the front grille and tailgate indicate the tweaks carried out under the skin of tuned cars. Features of the kit include a sports exhaust system, a sports air filter and a revised engine management system: all designed to optimise power efficiency and make the engine more free-revving for rapid acceleration throughout the engine speed range.

Visual appeal of the Cooper S can be further boosted with features including an aerodynamic body kit, 18-inch light alloy wheels in various finishes and numerous carbon-fibre trim and panel units.

The tuning upgrade is available at MINI dealerships from September 2007 and will give hard core MINI fans an eagerly-anticipated performance hit. Appetites were whetted earlier this week with news that the MINI John Cooper Works CHALLENGE car will be unveiled at next month’s Frankfurt Motor Show. The race car developed only for track use is priced at €49,900.

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MINI-Driver ... for the new MINI fan: MINI & Onitsuka Tiger make Clubman shoes

MINI-Driver ... for the new MINI fan: MINI & Onitsuka Tiger make Clubman shoes

MINI & Onitsuka Tiger make Clubman shoes

Autoblog - Santa Monica,CA,USA
MINI has teamed up with Japanese heritage sneaker brand Onitsuka Tiger (part of Asics) and will offer 3 pairs of trainers to coincide with the UK launch of the MINI Clubman.. Full article can be found here on www.autoblog.com .. and these shoes can be found at the MINI Shop at www.mini.com