2009 Mini Cooper/Clubman JCW
Mini unleashed a potent new model at the Geneva show. Wearing the John Cooper Works badge, this Mini packs a 207-bhp punch, enabling the car to sprint to 62 mph (100 km/h) in a claimed 6.5 seconds. Torque is listed at 192 lb.-ft. at just 1850 rpm, although a turbo overboost function ups this to 207 lb.-ft. for short bursts.
The 1.6-liter engine is based on the Mini Challenge unit and features a larger turbo, polished pistons and a strengthened cylinder head, amongst other tweaks. For the first time on a Mini, Dynamic Traction Control is fitted, which allows controlled slip until Dynamic Stability Control intervenes.
Both the Clubman and Cooper models are fitted with a tauter sports suspension as standard equipment. Even stiffer shocks and anti-roll bars are available as options.
John Cooper Works Minis have a 0.4-in.-lower ride height, larger brakes (with bright red calipers) and racing-inspired lightweight alloy wheels. The 6-speed manual transmission has also been revised with shorter throws and stouter gears to handle the engine’s additional output.
The John Cooper Works edition will be available for the new Mini Clubman as well. Both cars were shown in signature black over red paint schemes with black stripes.
