The JCW Pro Aerokit, which is an option for the standard model, gives the Challenge lower front splitters, rear spoiler add-ons, a rear diffuser and rear splitters, all aimed at improving the car’s aerodynamic performance.
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While the Challenge cars feature up to 255 horsepower, there are no major changes in the limited-edition model’s engine bay.
The John Cooper Works Challenge is inspired by the Mini Challenge racing vehicle. With 320Nm of torque, that means the vehicle goes from 0-62mph in 6.3 seconds. For starters, it gets adjustable Nitron coilover springs and dampers, along with camber adjustment plates.
“Win on Sunday, sell on Monday” has become less applicable nowadays, as the race-to-road connection becomes more tenuous with the majority of modern cars. And if the suspension components aren’t making you wish the JCW Challenge would make its way to the states, then the car’s Quaife mechanical limited-slip differential, which replaces the JCW’s standard electronic LSD, certainly will.
Additional traction is also provided courtesy of “super-sticky” Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires.
On the inside, this Mini features standard sports seats and a sports steering wheel. This time, however, the Brits made a decision to offer the hardcore special only for its United Kingdom customers, leaving the rest of the world drooling over it. Unfortunately, not many people will get to enjoy this beauty either, as the production run will be limited to just 100 units.
Look closer and you’ll spot 330-mm brake rotors in the front, complemented by four-pot Brembo calipers and Mintex pads.
And with that in mind the MINI development team in Oxford has worked with the racing car’s key suppliers to ensure the newcomer “delivers bespoke track performance to levels never before seen in the small hot hatch class”.
Every John Cooper Works Challenge is painted in White Silver. They will be priced at £32,000 (US$45,400) each and the auto will debut at the UK’s Goodwood Festival of Speed from June 23 – 26.
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Other Challenge touches include a black roof, unique decal package, individually numbered passenger side dash facia, adaptive LED headlights, and black Dinamica cloth interior.
