F56 – Automobiles Review

Are you ready for the MINI Challenge? Bilstein is!

Bilstein MINI John Cooper Works F56 front view It is not a secret (but maybe a surprise) that the MINI models, especially from the John Cooper Works heritage are a motorsport talent. And this has been proven in history many times. In fact, with the landmark win at the legendary Rally Monte Carlo in 1964, the little car has shut the mouths of those unbelieving in its potential.

Believe it or not, Bilstein (yes, the shock-absorbers guys) has been for a long time present in the “Monte history”. Even before the success of the MINI. The manufacturer had already equipped the Mercedes-Benz 220 SE with gas-pressure shock absorbers for the legendary rally in 1960. And back in the days these were still a rather recent high-tech invention! The result: a sensational triple win!

So why not mixing the MINI with Bilstein? The MINI Challenge in Italy, which has started yesterday, will be the proof for the success of this endeavour. But even more surprising is that this collaboration is not new. The last year, the one-make series ran with technical components from the B16 PSS10 coilover suspension with road approval, fitted to the old MINI model R56!

At the moment, the little guy on spot is the three-door MINI F56 John Cooper Works. Its suspension has also received another serious upgrade: Modular Damper System (MDS) designed by Bilstein exclusively for motorsports. The configuration is the following: 2-way adjustment for the front axle and a 1-way system for the rear axle, each with variable compression and rebound stages. The configuration is also in harmony with the new aerodynamics package which delivers great level of downforce.

We can’t wait to hear about the results. We will keep you posted.

Source: Bilstein

May 30, 2016

Manhart Racing Changes the Emblematic MINI John Cooper Works into Something Extraordinary!

Manhart MINI F300 front view Do you know that this year Manhart Racing is celebrating its 30^th anniversary? This only means that we are going to see even more exclusive project from the tuner that we are used to. The current one is based on the latest MINI John Cooper Works F56, which is fitted with MINI F300 personalization package.

Power Upgrade

The best thing about the F300 upgrade is that it concerns every part of the MINI, including its engine and performance. The tuners began with the remapping of the four-cylinder turbocharged motor. They actually changed the fuel, ignition, boosted the software and replaced the standard intercooler with one coming from Wagner.

Remus stainless steel sports exhaust was then added, and it includes larger downpipe and valve control, thus minimizing the backpressure and delivering throaty sound. After these modifications, the MINI F56 proudly ‘says’ that it can produce 300 hp (221 kW) and 470 Nm (347 lb-ft) of torque.

Manhart MINI F300 Engine

Exterior

After the more important modifications were done (after all this is a sports variant of the MINI), some other custom elements waited to be added. For instance such are the KW Variant 3 coil-over suspension kit, which has this cool ride height adjustment feature and an adjustable bounce and rebound control. The in-house made carbon-fibre front suspension tower strut brace stiffens up the front-end to reduce torque steer.

Everything mentioned by far is backed up by the gold-painted MANHART 19-inch multispoke alloys fitted with 235/35ZR19 tyres. At last, but not least, the entire exterior was re-painted with British Racing Green and then embellished with a specially designed gold decal set.

Interior

Manhart MINI F300 Interior

Moving forward to the interior, the theme in the cabin counts on the luxury rather rather than on motorsport. See the seats as they are covered in the finest anthracite leather and Alcantara and contrasted with gold outline stitching. Their Alcantara inserts feature gold cross-stitching for a harmonious effect. The same approach has been used for the Alcantara-wrapped steering wheel, while the velour floor mats have been embroidered with Manhart logos.

Wonder what the next 30^th anniversary project by Manhart would be? Which car would you like to see tuned?

Source: Manhart Performance

March 22, 2016

Essen Motor Show Welcomes the Stronger MINI JCW by AC Schnitzer [VIDEO]

2015 AC Schnitzer MINI John Cooper Works Front view AC Schnitzer has just sent us some information about the two MINIs it is currently presenting at the Essen Motor Show in Germany. Both are stylish and versatile and are a basically focused on performance. The models I am talking about are the MINI Cooper S and the John Cooper Works, both having very strong engines and sporting characteristics.

Performance Upgrades and More…

For both MINI variants, the tuning company is offering performance upgrades. Precisely, the change in power is from 192 hp (141 kW) to 235 hp (173 kW) and from 231 hp (170 kW) hp to 265 hp (195 kW).

The power of the cars just had to be communicated externally in terms of appearance and sound. Hence, AC Schnitzer added silencer systems that comprise of back box and two “Sport” or “Sport Black” tailpipes positioned centrally. This kit adds “Track Mode” flap system with remote control for optimized sound, too. The “Sport” and “Sport Black” tailpipe trims are also available.

Sports Handling

2015 AC Schnitzer MINI John Cooper Works Rear View

The driving behavior was further enhanced via the new suspension spring kits tat lower the cars 20 – 30 mm at the front and around 25 – 35 mm at the rear. There is nowhere to go without the proper rims, so the tuning team added 19-inch AC1 alloys, developed specifically for the new MINIs. They have double-spoke design and are fitted with tyres sized 215/35 R19.

In addition, AC Schnitzer’s front splitter now fits below the standard front skirt, thus delivering better downforce and a subtly sporting look. The rear skirt protective film, a Decor set and the rear “Technology & Design” logo complete the tuning.

In the video below you can hear the sound of the new exhaust of AC Schnitzer’s MINI. Enjoy!

httpv://youtu.be/SjSWDDOXtVk