The new MINI John Cooper Works on the starting grid at Geneva
Published: 24th February 2008
The new MINI John Cooper Works
Factory-built JCW Cooper S Hatch and Clubman are set for summer 2008 launch
- Engine modifications deliver 211hp and 0-62 in 6.5 seconds
- Engine, brakes, suspension settings and transmission adapted from MINI CHALLENGE race car
- Dynamic Traction Control makes MINI debut
- Full range of John Cooper Works body styling products available
- On-the-road prices expected to be £20,500 for the JCW Hatch and Clubman at £21,700
- New speedo design to accommodate the higher maximum speed
Production of John Cooper Works-tuned cars is all set to resume at MINI’s Plant Oxford after the launch of the second-generation MINI Cooper S Hatch and new MINI Cooper S Clubman. From July 2008, customers will be able to order factory-built MINIs that produce 211hp and complete a 0-62mph sprint in 6.5 seconds.
Motor sport has heavily influenced the engineering and development of these new MINIs that feature a larger twin-scroll turbocharger and direct petrol injection with common rail. The four-cylinder engine has had the same modifications as the MINI CHALLENGE race car, along with re-engineered brakes, suspension and strengthened gearing. Each upgrade combines to give the car a remarkable output of 132hp per litre combined with 40mpg.
Expected prices on-the-road are £20,500 for the MINI John Cooper Works and £21,700 for the MINI John Cooper Works Clubman. The cars will be unveiled for the first time to the public at the International Geneva Motor Show in March.
MINI John Cooper Works Specifications
|
|
torque |
0-62mph |
Top speed |
CO2 |
Com. |
JCW Hatch |
211 |
260* |
6.5 secs |
148 mph |
165 g/km |
40.9 |
JCW Clubman |
211 |
260* |
6.8 secs |
148 mph |
167 g/km |
40.4 |
*280Nm/206lb-ft with Overboost
MINI ohn Cooper Works Engine
The engine specially developed for the MINI CHALLENGE race car is fitted to the MINI John Cooper Works cars. The basic unit is the 1.6 litre power plant supplied in the standard MINI Cooper S, but modifications have been made to the air filter, air mass meter, exhaust system and catalyst. Air supply to the modified larger turbocharger is increased through fitment of a larger air intake pipe, which in turn creates a quicker induction phase.
The Works engines from Hams Hall also come with reinforced, specially polished pistons, as well as a strengthened cylinder head for optimised stability and a modified cylinder gasket. The intake valves and valve seat rings have also been upgraded with stronger and more resistant materials. This reduces the engine’s compression ratio.
The new Sports exhaust system is instantly recognisable through the large polished stainless steel twin tailpipes. Modification of the exhaust system has also helped to reduce counter-pressure at the point of exhaust gas recirculation. Ducts in the exhaust manifold and turbocharger are split between two cylinders each. Congestion is therefore minimised when air is inducted to the turbocharger and “turbo lag” is virtually eliminated.
The John Cooper Works MINIs are the first models in the range to fulfil all the requirements of the European EU5 emission standards that come into force in 2009.
The material used in machining the turbine has been upgraded specifically for the Works engine, with maximum charge pressure increased from 0.9 to 1.3 bar, in order to maintain the highest possible temperature for a longer period in the combustion chambers. This lengthening of the combustion process helps to achieve the higher torque curve of the Works car at 260Nm at just 1,850rpm. The Overboost function briefly extends this further to 280Nm. This suits the character of a John Cooper Works car perfectly as Overboost is experienced exclusively through increased torque, not on engine output.
MINI Cooper
Our MINI Cooper Guide lists the full specification of the current UK Cooper range, including car prices, fuel consumption, dimensions and other vital data.
Price Range: £13,325 - £20,275
Body Styles:
Fuel:
/ 
Models in the range: 6
We have road tested the MINI Cooper, to read our in-depth car reviews:
MINI Cooper Review - Feb 2005
MINI Cooper Review - Apr 2004
Our Car Buyer’s Guide covers all of the UK’s major new cars and includes CO2 ratings and car insurance groups. Data updated on the 21st Sep 2008
