mr funny
13-09-08, 18:45
http://www.businesstimes.com.sg/sub/motor/story/0,4574,296780,00.html?
Published September 13, 2008
A Mini with the Works
The Mini John Cooper Works, with its factory-fitted mods, should expand the attraction of the Mini brand. By Samuel Ee
http://www.businesstimes.com.sg/mnt/media/image/launched/2008-09-13/BT_IMAGES_SEMINI13_8.jpg
MENTION John Cooper Works and everyone automatically thinks of the tuning kit that turns the Mini Cooper S into a more powerful pocket rocket. But now, there is a new standalone model that doesn't rely on after-market additions to make it different from the standard car. It is called the Mini John Cooper Works.
The standard Mini Cooper S has 175 hp, which a JCW power kit can take up to 192 hp. The Mini John Cooper Works, on the other hand, pushes the envelope further - all the way to 211 hp.
The Mini JCW is still based on the twin-scrolled turbocharged 1.6-litre Cooper S but with extensive modifications. There is a bigger turbo, the engine pistons and valves have been reinforced, the intake is different and the exhaust system enlarged. Its chassis and drivetrain are derived directly from the Mini JCW Challenge racing car. The brakes and lightweight wheels are similarly motorsports-inspired. The 17-inch light alloy rims have the same Challenge design while the Brembo brakes bite into bigger discs.
All these mods add up to a very different driving experience from the Cooper S. For one thing, all that extra power has not made it wilder. Instead, it feels more poised and composed. The trademark go-kart handling may still be there but the Mini JCW feels incredibly refined. The power is delivered as smoothly as if it had a naturally aspirated engine. Only some torque steer is evident when the gas pedal is floored.
Handling is sharpened by the Electronic Differential Lock Control, which is activated when DSC or Dynamic Stability Control is turned off. EDLC for the rear axle differential uses the brakes to mimic a limited slip differential, allowing the car to take tight corners more sharply.
The six-speed manual gearbox also enhances the driving experience with its short throw and precise shifts. Deceleration is equally effortless, with vastly improved brakes and pedal feel. And everything about the heavy but still pleasantly weighted controls enhances that confidence.
The accessories in the Mini JCW provide especially delightful visual appeal. There are alcantara-lined Recaro bucket seats (with a somewhat garish John Cooper Works logo though), carbon fibre gearstick with ribbed alcantara on the underside for better grip, attention-grabbing carbon fibre wing extending from the edge of the roof, and the carbon fibre lined bonnet scoop.
The Mini JCW is not expected to be a volume seller. Instead, it should expand the attraction of the Mini brand.
[email protected]
SPECS
Mini John Cooper Works
Engine 1,598cc turbocharged
Transmission 6-speed manual
Max power 211 hp @ 6,000 rpm
Max torque 260 Nm @ 1,850 rpm (280 Nm @ 2,000 rpm with Overboost)
0-100 kmh 6.5 secs
Top speed 238 kmh
Price $159,800 (with COE)
Distributor Trans Eurokars
tel 6473-3777
Published September 13, 2008
A Mini with the Works
The Mini John Cooper Works, with its factory-fitted mods, should expand the attraction of the Mini brand. By Samuel Ee
http://www.businesstimes.com.sg/mnt/media/image/launched/2008-09-13/BT_IMAGES_SEMINI13_8.jpg
MENTION John Cooper Works and everyone automatically thinks of the tuning kit that turns the Mini Cooper S into a more powerful pocket rocket. But now, there is a new standalone model that doesn't rely on after-market additions to make it different from the standard car. It is called the Mini John Cooper Works.
The standard Mini Cooper S has 175 hp, which a JCW power kit can take up to 192 hp. The Mini John Cooper Works, on the other hand, pushes the envelope further - all the way to 211 hp.
The Mini JCW is still based on the twin-scrolled turbocharged 1.6-litre Cooper S but with extensive modifications. There is a bigger turbo, the engine pistons and valves have been reinforced, the intake is different and the exhaust system enlarged. Its chassis and drivetrain are derived directly from the Mini JCW Challenge racing car. The brakes and lightweight wheels are similarly motorsports-inspired. The 17-inch light alloy rims have the same Challenge design while the Brembo brakes bite into bigger discs.
All these mods add up to a very different driving experience from the Cooper S. For one thing, all that extra power has not made it wilder. Instead, it feels more poised and composed. The trademark go-kart handling may still be there but the Mini JCW feels incredibly refined. The power is delivered as smoothly as if it had a naturally aspirated engine. Only some torque steer is evident when the gas pedal is floored.
Handling is sharpened by the Electronic Differential Lock Control, which is activated when DSC or Dynamic Stability Control is turned off. EDLC for the rear axle differential uses the brakes to mimic a limited slip differential, allowing the car to take tight corners more sharply.
The six-speed manual gearbox also enhances the driving experience with its short throw and precise shifts. Deceleration is equally effortless, with vastly improved brakes and pedal feel. And everything about the heavy but still pleasantly weighted controls enhances that confidence.
The accessories in the Mini JCW provide especially delightful visual appeal. There are alcantara-lined Recaro bucket seats (with a somewhat garish John Cooper Works logo though), carbon fibre gearstick with ribbed alcantara on the underside for better grip, attention-grabbing carbon fibre wing extending from the edge of the roof, and the carbon fibre lined bonnet scoop.
The Mini JCW is not expected to be a volume seller. Instead, it should expand the attraction of the Mini brand.
[email protected]
SPECS
Mini John Cooper Works
Engine 1,598cc turbocharged
Transmission 6-speed manual
Max power 211 hp @ 6,000 rpm
Max torque 260 Nm @ 1,850 rpm (280 Nm @ 2,000 rpm with Overboost)
0-100 kmh 6.5 secs
Top speed 238 kmh
Price $159,800 (with COE)
Distributor Trans Eurokars
tel 6473-3777