The local MINI product range is set for a further boost with the introduction of the John Cooper Works editions of the MINI Cooper S Hardtop and Clubman.
Priced at $48,800 for the JCW Cooper S hardtop or $51,300 for the JCW Clubman, the new models are based on the Chilli level of trim, but with added features. The powerplant is the same race-prepared 1.6-litre turbo four that drives the competition cars in the MINI Challenge race series. As for those cars, the engine in the road-going models is tuned to produce 155kW of power and 280Nm of torque. That torque figure is achieved via an overboost function, but normally, the engine develops 260Nm. Both torque peaks occur from as low as 1850rpm.
With that sort of engine output, the JCW hardtop will reach 100km/h from a standing start in 6.5 seconds. The Clubman version requires and extra three tenths of a second (6.8). Top speed is 238km/h for both and fuel consumption is 6.9L/100km for the hardtop or 7.0L/100km. Both models are equipped with the six-speed manual transmission alone, without any other transmission options.
Additional JCW features include:
- Low-friction exhaust system
- 17-inch Cross-Spoke design Challenge S light alloy wheels
- 205/45 R17 run-flat tyres
- Bigger brakes (316 x 22 mm front and 280 x 10 mm rear)
- 260 km/h speedometer
- John Cooper Works Badges
- Traction Control
- Stability Control
- Piano Black gloss trim
- Anthracite headlining
- Darkened side windows in rear and for rear window
- Leather-bound sports steering wheel
"These are the fastest cars yet that MINI has brought to Australia but it is not their outright performance alone that will endear them to our customers," says Justin Hocevar, National Manager for MINI.
"The cars are the complete package with bigger brakes, sportier exhaust, and an even higher degree of exclusivity.
"Racing MINIs in the hands of John Cooper's drivers forged the legend that remains indelibly etched into Motorsport folklore in Australia, and around the world, and made the 1960s MINI Cooper S the car to drive on road and track."
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