The new MINI John Cooper Works GP.

A rarity with racing genes sets new benchmarks for performance in the
premium small car segment. The new MINI John Cooper Works GP (combined
fuel consumption: 7.3 l/100 km, combined CO2 emissions: 167
g/km) is the fastest model of the British brand that has ever been
approved for road use. A 225 kW/306 hp 4-cylinder turbocharged engine
accelerates the two-seater model – based on the MINI 3 door – from
zero to 100 km/h in just 5.2 seconds. The new MINI John Cooper Works
GP will be presented to the public for the first time at the Los
Angeles Auto Show (22 November to 1 December 2019) and subsequently
produced in a limited edition of 3,000 units at the MINI plant in
Oxford. Delivery to racing enthusiasts around the globe will get
underway in March 2020.

An intense, purist race feeling is conveyed by what is by far the
most powerful engine ever to be used in a small car of the brand,
suspension technology that is fine-tuned based on John Cooper Works’
comprehensive racing expertise and a body that is optimised in terms
of lightweight construction, torsional stiffness and aerodynamics. The
new MINI John Cooper Works GP offers unrivalled sporty flair and
overwhelming agility. As such, it forms part of a fascinating
tradition that has been closely linked to the name of the legendary
Formula 1 designer John Cooper ever since the debut of the classic
Mini 60 years ago. On both road and racetrack, this combination has
been a constant source of sporting highlights: from the first Mini
Cooper and winning the British Touring Car Championship to the three
overall victories in the Monte Carlo Rally, the MINI Challenge racing
series, achievements in the Dakar Rally and the latest generation of
the John Cooper Works models.

The exclusive character of the new MINI John Cooper Works GP,
uncompromisingly geared towards extreme driving pleasure, is expressed
in both its engine power and its performance characteristics. More
clearly than ever before, its standing is at the very forefront of the
MINI and John Cooper Works model range. Its additional output over and
above that of the MINI John Cooper Works is 55 kW/75 hp. As such, the
outstanding position of the new MINI John Cooper Works GP is even more
clearly defined than that of the extreme athletes of the two previous
MINI model generations, each of which was manufactured in a small
series of 2,000 units. The MINI Cooper S with John Cooper Works GP
Kit, launched in 2006 and the MINI John Cooper Works GP of 2013
already reflected unusually intense racing flair with their 160 kW/218
hp turbocharged engines, their specific suspension technology and
their exclusive design and equipment features. The new MINI John
Cooper Works GP takes the experience of performance in a premium small
car to a whole new level. In the course of test drives as part of the
series development process, it completed a lap of the Nordschleife at
Nürburgring in less than eight minutes – almost half a minute faster
than its direct predecessor.

The new MINI John Cooper Works GP: an overview of the
highlights.

  • 2.0-litre 4-cylinder engine with MINI TwinPower Turbo Technology,
    225 kW/306 hp and 450 Nm.
  • 55 kW/75 hp more output than the MINI John Cooper Works.
  • Acceleration from zero to 100 km/h in 5.2 seconds, top speed:
    265 km/h (not cut off).
  • Model-specific oil supply and cooling concept geared towards
    maximum performance.
  • Model-specific sports exhaust system for emotionally powerful sound.
  • 8-speed Steptronic sports transmission with integrated mechanical
    differential lock for the front wheels.
  • Distinctive chassis design and set-up, suspension lowered by 10 mm
    as compared to the MINI John Cooper Works.
  • Particularly high-performance sports brake system.
  • Extremely rigid body structure, engine and suspension connection.
  • Model-specific front and rear aprons.
  • Roof spoiler with double-wing contour.
  • Powerfully flared carbon wheel arch covers.
  • Interior with two seats and model-specific cockpit.


Impressive source of power: 4-cylinder engine with MINI
TwinPower Turbo Technology.

A 4-cylinder engine designed for maximum performance and based on
motor racing expertise delivers the power required for the thrilling
performance characteristics of the new MINI John Cooper Works GP. The
2.0-litre engine features the latest generation of MINI TwinPower
Turbo technology as well as numerous precisely modified details that
set it apart from the engine of the MINI John Cooper Works.
Model-specific modifications include a reinforced crankshaft with
enlarged main bearing diameter, specific pistons, bushless connecting
rods and a new torsional vibration damper with optimised cooling.

In addition, the extreme performance of the 4-cylinder engine is
achieved by means of a newly developed turbocharger. It is integrated
into the exhaust manifold and fitted with a divert-air valve that
helps optimise its response. The compression ratio of the engine in
the MINI John Cooper Works has been reduced from 10.2 to 9.5 in line
with the increased boost pressure as provided by the system. The
intake air duct has also been newly developed. Enlarged inlet and flow
cross-sections and the increased volume of the noise damper ensure
maximum dethrottling.

In addition, the latest generation of petrol direct injection is
conducive to spontaneous power development. Its new multi-hole
injectors, arranged centrally between the valves, are able to cope
with an increased flow rate, transporting the fuel into the combustion
chambers at an injection pressure of up to 350 bar. The fine
atomisation enables precise metering of the fuel and in addition to
optimised efficiency also results in particularly clean combustion.
MINI TwinPower Turbo technology also includes fully variable valve
control based on VALVETRONIC as patented by the BMW Group and variable
camshaft control on the intake and exhaust sides (double VANOS).

In addition, the new MINI John Cooper Works GP features a
model-specific engine oil sump with increased volume and a distinctive
geometry. This ensures a reliable oil supply at all times, even during
extremely sporty driving involving high levels of longitudinal and
lateral acceleration.

Spontaneous power delivery, unbridled forward thrust.

The extensive modifications to the basic engine and to the MINI
TwinPower Turbo Technology result in a particularly spontaneous
response to every movement of the accelerator pedal as well as
continuous development of power up into the high engine speed range.
The 4-cylinder engine develops its maximum torque of 450 Nm at a speed
of 1 750 rpm, maintaining this torque up into the 4 500 rpm range. The
maximum output of 225 kW/306 hp is available between 5 000 and 6 250 rpm.

The resulting pulling power can be used for exceptionally spirited
acceleration manoeuvres. The new MINI John Cooper Works GP sprints
from a standing start to 100 km/h in just 5.2 seconds. Thanks to the
high elasticity of its engine, it is also capable of leaving
higher-category sports cars behind on intermediate sprints. There is
no artificial limit to the vehement forward thrust of the new MINI
John Cooper Works GP – even at higher speeds. The top speed is 265 km/h.

Model-specific exhaust system generates an emotionally
powerful sound.

The spontaneous development of power and the unbridled revving of the
engine are underscored by the emotionally striking sound production of
the exhaust system, which was developed specifically for the model.
The drive acoustics authentically express the outstanding performance
characteristics of the new MINI John Cooper Works GP. When driving in
a relaxed manner in the low engine speed range the car produces a
restrained, sonorous sound. Under full load, spirited power
development is supported by the low exhaust back pressure and
accompanied by a sound that is inspired by motor racing. This acoustic
accentuation of the car’s extremely sporty character additionally
contributes to the performance experience for driver and passenger.

The straight pipe ducting of the exhaust system leads into a
particularly large rear silencer with a specific interior design. From
there, two tailpipes with matt brushed stainless steel trim and a
diameter of 90 millimetres each branch off centrally into the rear
apron. These also provide an authentic visual showcase for the purist
character of the drive technology, which is geared towards maximum
performance. One of the features which optimise the exhaust system’s
emission response is a petrol engine particulate filter. Exhaust gas
purification in the new MINI John Cooper Works GP complies with the
Euro 6d-TEMP emission standard.

Independent cooling concept developed based on racing expertise.

The performance characteristics of the engine pave the way for
outstanding performance which can be experienced both on the road and
on the race track. The temperature management requirements this
involves are met by a cooling concept developed especially for the new
MINI John Cooper Works GP based on racing expertise. Two external
coolant coolers for the high-temperature circuit, a model-specific
expansion tank with increased volume, an specifically designed coolant
module storage system and an electric fan with increased output ensure
that the engine maintains its optimum operating temperature at all
times – even under high loads and with an extremely sporty driving style.

The crankcase cooling system can be temporarily shut off by means of
a new split-cooling valve to optimise the engine’s warm-up response.
In addition, the transmission also has a separate cooling circuit.

New 8-speed Steptronic transmission with mechanical
differential lock.

The high-performance engine of the new MINI John Cooper Works GP is
positioned transversely at the front according to the hallmark brand
principle. Adapted motor racing technology is also used to transfer
the engine’s outstanding drive power to the front wheels. The new MINI
John Cooper Works GP is fitted as standard with a model-specific
8-speed Steptronic transmission – complete with integrated
differential lock and matched to the engine’s performance
characteristics and high torque. The latest generation of the
transmission features increased internal efficiency and an extended
spread. The torque converter clutch, which is closed immediately after
set-off, ensures a direct engine link and a spontaneous driving feel.
A new transmission control system enables a particularly sporty
shifting strategy. The acoustic comfort is optimised by a newly
developed torsion damper. The 8-speed Steptronic transmission is
operated via a model-specific electronic gear selector switch. Manual
intervention in gear selection is also possible using the standard
shift paddles on the steering wheel.

The model-specific tuning of the 8-speed Steptronic transmission is
another element of the overall package of drive and suspension
technology that is precisely geared to maximum performance, thereby
giving the new MINI John Cooper Works GP its own unique properties.
This is reflected in shift characteristics that are geared towards
extremely sporty driving – for example with sharper brake downshifts
and direct multiple downshifts during forceful acceleration. What is
more, increased engine speed level, direct feedback on shift commands
and a further increase in shift dynamics are also noticeable in
automatic sports mode (DS transmission mode).

The mechanical differential lock integrated in the transmission
ensures that the drive torque is distributed between the right and
left front wheels so as to promote traction during particularly
dynamic cornering. It is networked with the DSC (Dynamic Stability
Control) system and acts as a transverse lock to reduce the speed
difference between the front wheels. Under load demand, it is possible
to generate a locking effect of up to 31 per cent. The mechanical lock
counteracts any loss of traction, both in the case of differing
friction coefficients and where there is a difference in speed between
the right and left drive wheels. For this purpose, it directs a higher
proportion of the drive torque to the wheel with the better grip or
the wheel that is turning more slowly, ensuring that any tendency to
understeer or oversteer is prevented early on. This makes for
particularly agile steering of the MINI John Cooper Works GP and
enables it to accelerate even more dynamically out of corners.

Tight engine mounting, body structure and suspension
connection with a high degree of rigidity.

The model-specific connection of the engine, transmission and
suspension along with an extremely rigid body structure ensure highly
a spontaneous and precise response to steering manoeuvres and
accelerator pedal movements. The particularly outstanding features
include an engine mount specially developed for the new MINI John
Cooper Works GP. The tight connection of the engine and transmission
to the body optimises drive response.

In the underbody area, the tunnel bridge has been replaced by a solid
support for the likewise modified rear axle member. The generously
dimensioned, rectangular strut frame provides ideal conditions for a
suspension set-up geared towards the very highest levels of lateral
acceleration. At the front end, the suspension connection is optimised
by a strut brace.

Model-specific suspension set-up, DSC with GP mode.

With model-specific kinematics and elastokinematics, the suspension
technology of the new MINI John Cooper Works GP opens up a whole new
dimension of the characteristic go-kart feeling. In the course of an
intensive testing program on the Nürburgring Nordschleife and other
race tracks, it was precisely tuned to the car’s extremely high engine
output and the vehicle concept of an exceptional athlete within the
small car segment. The model-specific versions of the single-joint
spring strut for the front wheels and the multilink rear axle were
also optimised with regard to component stiffness. In order to
increase agility, the track widths were increased and the body lowered
by 10 millimetres as compared to the MINI John Cooper Works. Specially
tuned suspension springs are just as much a part of the model-specific
suspension as the specially adapted auxiliary springs, dampers and
stabilisers. Newly designed swivel bearings enable increased camber
levels on the front wheels. Together with the likewise increased
camber levels of the rear wheels, this increases the potential for
transmitting lateral forces during dynamic cornering. Stabiliser
bearings on the front and rear axles with particularly high preload
optimise roll support during spontaneous steering movements.

In addition to its connection, the design of the suspension design
also features extensive measures to increase rigidity. The precise
handling characteristics of the new MINI John Cooper Works GP are
enhanced by stiffer rubber bearings in the support bearings of the
front and rear axles, for example. The four wishbones on the rear axle
are fitted on the outside with clearance-free metal ball sleeve joints
instead of rubber mounts, while on the inside there are highly rigid
rubber mounts. The strut in the engine compartment is bolted directly
to the support bearings of the front axle.

The standard functions of the electromechanical power steering
include speed-related steering support for maximum precision when
cornering at speed and for comfortable manoeuvring at low speeds. As
an alternative to the standard setting, the DSC also offers a GP mode
that can be activated by means of a toggle switch. This setting raises
the thresholds for stabilising interventions on the part of the
braking system and engine control system. In combination with the
mechanical differential lock, this provides even more intense support
for the agile handling of the new MINI John Cooper Works GP. In
addition, the toggle switch for controlling the driving stability
system can also be used to access DSC off mode.

Sports brake system and lightweight forged wheels in exclusive
format.

The sports brake system in the new MINI John Cooper Works GP ensures
consistently high deceleration performance even when subject to
intensive use. It comprises 4-piston fixed-caliper disc brakes on the
front wheels and single-piston floating-caliper brakes on the rear
wheels. The sports brake system is characterised by high stability and
a direct, clearly defined pedal feel. The front calipers are made of
aluminium and combined with 360 × 30 mm ventilated discs. They are
finished in Chili Red and bear the John Cooper Works logo.

The new MINI John Cooper Works GP is fitted as standard with 18-inch
lightweight forged wheels. The light alloy wheels in 8.0 J × 18 format
weigh less than nine kilograms and are fitted with high-performance
tyres specially developed for this exceptionally sporty vehicle. The
hub caps on the exclusive light alloy wheels bear the GP logo. The
structure and profile of the 225/35 R 18 tyres are designed to ensure
maximum steering precision, optimum transmission of lateral forces
when cornering in sporty style and increased traction during
acceleration and deceleration.

Unmistakable design, optimised aerodynamic properties.

The new MINI John Cooper Works GP has model-specific design features
that make its standing as an exceptional athlete unmistakable right
from the starting line. These also make a significant contribution to
the car’s driving characteristics – namely stability and precise
controllability even in highly dynamic situations. The body, which has
been modified in detail, primarily optimises the car’s aerodynamic
balance and the targeted supply of cooling air to the drive units and
brake system. The large roof spoiler with double wing contours, the
model-specific design of the front apron surround known as the
Blackband and the front spoiler lip of the new MINI John Cooper Works
GP form a precisely coordinated package designed to reduce lift. As a
result, lift values on the front and rear axles are significantly
reduced as compared to the MINI John Cooper Works.

In addition, the front apron has particularly large air intakes. The
roof spoiler, which extends far beyond the side line, has a key role
to play in optimising driving dynamics. With its reversed wing
profile, it generates maximum downforce with the lowest possible
aerodynamic drag in order to press the vehicle onto the road at high speeds.

Wheel arch trim made of carbon fibre-reinforced plastic.

The visually unmistakable features that are important in terms of the
car’s aerodynamic properties also include the large and strikingly
flared wheel arch trims of the new MINI John Cooper Works GP. They
make it possible to combine the use of very large track widths and
wide wheels with optimised air ducting in the side section of the vehicle.

The wheel arch panels are manufactured by means of a special process
and with a material combination used for the first time by the BMW
Group consisting of a thermoplastic substructure and an outer shell
made of carbon fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP). Intelligent
lightweight construction goes hand in hand with the sustainable use of
resources. The raw material for the outer shells, which are made of a
particularly lightweight CFRP fleece, is a refined material that is
recycled from the production of the BMW i3 and the BMW i8. The four
CFRP components required for each individual vehicle are produced
using a shared wet-pressing tool. In this way, a highly efficient
production process can be applied that was previously only implemented
in high-volume production. In addition, the wheel arch covers with
their hexagonally sewn CFRP structure, double matt finish and
consecutive numbering give each of the 3,000 vehicles produced a
unique visual highlight. The new MINI John Cooper Works GP is the BMW
Group’s first production vehicle to feature an exposed matt CFRP
coating. The individual numbering with the numbers “0001” to “3000” is
applied to the surfaces of the front wheel arch panels by means of a
newly developed paint transfer process.

Model-specific design accentuations signal purist sporty flair.

The purist character of the new MINI John Cooper Works GP, geared
towards maximum performance, is further underscored by precisely
deployed designed accentuations. Only the exclusive finish Racing Grey
metallic is available for the exterior paintwork. Meanwhile the roof
and exterior mirror caps are finished in the contrasting colour of
Melting Silver metallic. Just like the front apron, the rear apron
with integrated rear fog lamps has a distinctive shaping. A
cross-member on the hexagonal radiator grille, the inserts in the
lower air intake and the inside of the roof spoiler are finished in
high-gloss Chili Red. Meanwhile the GP logos on the front and rear,
the outer sides of the roof spoiler and the door sill finishers, as
well as the foils above the side skirts, are finished with a stylised
“GP” in Rosso Red metallic matt.

A striking contrast here is provided by the black finish of the
headlamp surrounds, the central radiator grille and rear lights, the
fuel filler flap and the door handles, as well as the inlay on the
bonnet and the MINI logo at the front and rear of the vehicle. The
black inlays on the headlamps and the maximally darkened Union Jack
rear light units likewise emphasise the uncompromising sporty flair of
the new MINI John Cooper Works GP.

Sports car cockpit with two seats and reduced acoustic insulation.

Two seats and reduced acoustic insulation for the purpose of weight
optimisation also give the interior of the new MINI John Cooper Works
GP genuine sports car flair. The standard equipment includes John
Cooper Works sports seats in Dinamica/leather combination with silver
side edges, red accentuation seams, a GP badge underneath the
integrated headrests and red belt straps. The interior trim on the
passenger side bears the numbering of the respective vehicle. This is
produced individually for each one of the 3,000 extreme athletes by
means of 3D printing.

The model-specific John Cooper Works leather steering wheel also
acquires its exclusive character from accentuations produced using the
3D printing process. In addition to red accentuation seams, the
steering wheel rim made of soft nappa leather also features a metal
centre marking for the 12 o’clock position created using the additive
manufacturing process. The shift paddles on the steering wheel are
likewise 3D-printed in metal. In addition to the GP logo, a
characteristic honeycomb structure can be seen on the paddle surfaces.
Colour accentuations in the otherwise dark cockpit are provided by the
red GP logos on the floor mats, matching double stripes on the gear
selector and the Chili Red painted aluminium cross-brace behind the
seats. This serves as a shield to prevent luggage items from slipping
forward in the event of sudden braking.

Digital instrument cluster and central instrument with
model-specific displays.

Optional features for the new MINI John Cooper Works GP include
automatic climate control, the Connected Navigation Plus package,
which also includes telephony with wireless charging, and an alarm
system. The Connected Media system comes as standard: it displays
model-specific information on the 6.5-inch screen in the central
instrument panel. The standard trim also includes a digital instrument
cluster on the steering column. The high-resolution 5-inch colour
screen shows the road speed both numerically and on a scale. The
model-specific display includes temporary feedback and permanent
display after activation of GP mode. A GP logo is permanently shown at
the top of the screen. The graphic animation before vehicle start
shows a model-specific image including the GP logo.

Note: All figures relating to driving performance, fuel consumption
and CO2 emissions are provisional.

In case of queries, please contact:

Press and PR

Matthias Bode, Spokesperson Communication
MINI
Tel.: +49-89-382-61742
E-mail: matthias.bode@mini.com

Andreas Lampka, Head of Communication MINI
Tel.: +49-
89-382-23662
E-mail: andreas.lampka@mini.com


The figures for fuel consumption, CO2 emissions, power
consumption and range are measured using the methods required
according to Regulation (EC) 2007/715 as amended. The information is
based on a vehicle with basic equipment in Germany; ranges take into
account differences in wheel and tyre size selected as well as
optional equipment and can change during configuration.

The information has already been calculated based on the new WLTP
test cycle and adapted to NEDC for comparison purposes. In these
vehicles, different figures than those published here may apply for
the assessment of taxes and other vehicle-related duties which are
(also) based on CO2 emissions.

For further details of the official fuel consumption figures and
the official specific CO2 emissions of new cars, please refer to the
“Manual on the fuel consumption, CO2 emissions and power consumption
of new cars” available free of charge at all sales outlets, from
Deutsche Automobil Treuhand GmbH (DAT), Hellmuth-Hirth-Str. 1, 73760
Ostfildern-Scharnhausen and at https://www.dat.de/co2/.