John Cooper Works – 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

Why this MINI John Cooper Works has nothing to do with a regular one?

B&B MINI John Cooper Works rear view This MINI John Cooper Works with a regular one because of many reasons, but if we have to sum them up, it all ends at the work of the German tuning specialists at B&B. To make things a little bit clearer, they have developed a several stage modifications which results in fantastic addition of output for the MINI. And to be even more precise, the stock horses of the car jumped from 231 hp to 300 hp, while the Newton meters – from 320 Nm to 465 Nm.

Even more: the top speed was changed from 246 km/h to 280 km/h, while the acceleration time (for the 0-100 km/h sprint) dropped from 6.3 sec to 5.4 sec. How did they make things possible? The answer: with a lot of hard and precise work as well as a precise craftsmanship.

The Three Stages

B&B MINI John Cooper Works engine

Well, the aforementioned performance uprating was achieved with the help of Stage 3 conversion, which includes in-house made high-performance intercooler, modified intake ducts and manifold, high-flow exhaust downpipe, and a remap of the fuel, ignition and turbocharger boost curves. The high-flow downpipe actually unleashes approximately 15hp.

Given the fact that there is a Stage 3, to one surely occurs that there are two more. By the way, you have to apply them before reaching to the last one. The Stage 1 offers a slight increase in boost pressure and remap of the fuel and ignition curves. As a result, the output was increased to 272 hp and 400 Nm of torque. The Stage 2 pushes the horses to 286 hp and 430 Nm via the new intake ducts and manifold. The fuel and ignition curves are remapped, and turbo boost increased by 0.25 bar.

Other Goodies

B&B MINI John Cooper Works side view

Improving the soundtrack of the newly uprated MIN is B7B’s sport exhaust with uprated catalytic converter. In addition, to make everything even more harmonious, the chassis received sport spring set, which lowers the ride height by approximately 30 mm and improves the cars handling and looks. There were also added KW V3 coilover suspension kit, 342 mm vented discs in front part of the new high performance brake system and B9 alloy wheels measuring 18-inch.

Source: B&B Automobiltechnik

May 27, 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

Video Source: YouTube

Source: AC Schnitzer

November 24, 2015

Maxi-Tuner MINI John Cooper Works is 260HP and 390NM Strong!

Maxi-Tuner MINI John Cooper Works is literally a supermini. It stands out with new exterior appearance and more power than ever. Based on the most powerful production MINI, the F56, this modified JCW has added numerous visual and performance upgrades. The package comprises of ‘MaxPower’ and ‘MaxSound’ kits and other additions to the exterior… but let’s see what has really happened here.

Exterior

The appearance of the Maxi-Tuner MINI John Cooper Works stands out due to some extra visual goodies. The car stands out as an extrovert due to its new front bumper with huge air intakes. The tuner also added sculpted side sills for more athletic appearance. At the rear we see a diffuser that frames its dual exhaust outlets.

Engine Uprated with MaxPower

The production version of the JCW F56 is powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbocharged engine, which is 231 hp (170 kW) and 320 Nm (236 lb-ft) strong.

Thanks to the in-house made MaxPower plug and play auxiliary ECU with bespoke wiring harness, Maxi-Tuner achieved a power boost of 260 hp (191 kW) and a peak torque increase of up to 390 Nm (288 lb-ft). This is an addition of 29 hp and 70 Nm.

The bigger output also results in crisper e-gas throttle response, better driving dynamics and faster acceleration against the stopwatch. However, the intelligent control electronics in the MaxPower box do not change the factory diagnostic and service functions.

This means that the engine temperature reaches the factory limits, the system reverts to standard parameters, retarding the ignition to reduce power.

MaxSound

Maxi-Tuner MINI John Cooper Works is also fitted with custom MaxSound sport exhaust system. This one contributes to a louder voice to match the enhanced performance. It is made from high quality stainless steel and features sport exhaust features 70 mm tube diameters and a remote control for the flap system. At last, Maxi-Tuner left both tailpipes operating despite of the flap position.

Source: MaxiTuner

June 23, 2015

Krumm-Performance Uprates MINI John Cooper Works [VIDEO]

To be honest, Krumm-Performance is another German tuning company which I hear of for the first time. However, it has been present on the automotive market for ten years now and it specializes in customizing MINIs only. Performance uprating and chassis engineering is the field of work of the tuner. Under the spotlight today is a MINI John Cooper Works conversion.

The car received a Stage III kit, which boasted the engine power to 300 hp (213 kW) and 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque. The kit comprises of Hybrid Turbo, diverse heat protection shields, Akrapovic downpipe, racing intercooler with E-certification mark, Pipercross air filter element and more.

In addition to Stage III the engine of the MINI JCW received diverse intercooler air tubes without resonators as well as a custom exhaust system and intake. Furthermore, the gear box is delivered by Drexler LSD and has Krumm-Performance setup, while the racing clutch is from Sachs and features sinter pads and single mass flywheel.

The brake system is delivered by AP-Racing and comprises of 4-piston calipers, 330×32 mm floating wave brake discs with optimized sharp airing, PFC 01 brake pads and steel flex tubes. This MINI is running on 17-inch ATS-GTR rims which have been coupled with Dunlop Direzza 03G tires.

Left to mention are the Challenge front lip, the rear diffusor and the special wrapping by Camshaft. Oh, and let’s not forget to say something about the interior. It has been supplied with Recaro SPG XL seats, CAE-Ultra shifter, OMP Ultraleggero steering wheel, Schroth Profi 3FE 6-point belts and Wiechers Clubsport rollover bar.

Of course, don’t forget to check out the special short film about this exciting project:

httpv://youtu.be/Kr8qZsNgF8o

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Krumm-Performance

May 18, 2015

MINI Introduces the More Powerful John Cooper Works

MINI JCW front view Next to the 3 Series, BMW is also debuting the updated MINI John Cooper Works for the 2016 model year. The latest edition of the small car segment top athlete keeps the same sporting appearance and the race feeling, but now adds even more. New for this MINI edition are the technologies for the engine, suspension and aerodynamics, which have been directly taken from the motor racing. There are also model-specific design features for the exterior and interior, which make this three-door beauty even more individual.

Exterior

The specific design of the car is unmistakable. Just take a look of the new LED headlamps with white direction indicators or the wheel arch surround with distinctive contours. At the front, the radiator grille is emblematic for the JCW as are the side scuttles and tailgate JCW label.

In addition, the rear now features sports exhaust system with new special tailpipes. MINI is also offering an entirely new exterior color for the vehicle, and it is called Rebel Green. It comes exclusively for this car and won’t be featured in other MINI versions.

We must also mention that the body of the car has been aerodynamically optimized and now features JCW front apron with large cooling air inlets which also occupy the space allocated to the fog lamps. In the aero treatment are also playing big role the distinctive side sill and rear apron design as well as the John Cooper Works rear spoiler.

The car is running on exclusive 17-inch John Cooper Works Race Spoke light alloys behind which we see newly developed Brembo sports brakes.

Interior

The interior is as characteristic as the exterior, because of the special John Cooper Works treatment. It is visible through the sports seats in Dinamica fabric that also feature integrated headrests.

Moreover, there are JCW entry sills, steering wheel with multifunction buttons and shift paddles, and six-speed Steptronic sports transmission. JCW-treatment can also be seen on the gear lever or selector lever and is also featured on the cockpit displays and central instrument display surround. The pedals and driver footrest come in stainless steel.

Engine Range

The most powerful engine has been introduced for this MINI, and it is the 2.0-litre 4-cylinder spark ignition unit, coming directly from the MINI TwinPower Turbo Technology. The output has been increased to 231 hp (170 kW) and the torque to 320 Nm (236 lb-ft), but still delivers combined fuel consumption rated at 6.7 l/100 km and CO2 emissions – at 155 g/km.

The engine can be connected to a six-speed manual transmission or to a six-speed Steptronic sports one. With the first the car accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.3 seconds, and in 6.1 seconds with the automatic transmission. The top speed is electronically limited at 246 km/h.

John Cooper Works Accessories

Optional for this model are the John Cooper Works accessories, which will make it even more individual. First we must mention the MINI Head-Up Display with exclusive display content. Then, there are some special exterior features like the roof and exterior mirror covers in Chili Red or the available 18-inch JCW light alloys. Of course, we can’t go without the John Cooper Works bonnet stripes.

The updated MINI John Cooper Works will go on sale later this year with pricing to be announced near launch.

Source: MINI

May 8, 2015

Meet the Spicy 2015 MINI John Cooper Works!

Meet the new 2015 MINI John Cooper Works Hardtop! The spicy little car is set to make a debut at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit. The event is starting on 12^th of January and we can’t wait to see all of the good stuff there. The launch of the new JCW celebrates MINI’s passion for motorsport for 55 years. This is evident via the most powerful engine that drives the car, the refined suspension technology and the desisn features which not only improve the aerodynamics but also highlights the styling.

Precisely, 2015 John Cooper Works Hardtop is powered by the 2.0- liter 4-cylinder engine. This unit was developed based on the MINI TwinPower Turbo Technology. Speaking in numbers, it produces a maximum output of 228 hp (168 kW) and a maximum torque of 320 Nm (236 ft-lbs).

They allow the MINI to sprint from standstill to 60 mph in 5.9 seconds when equipped with the automatic transmission. In case the car is equipped with the manual one, this number jumps to 6.1 seconds. In general, this is an increase in sprint capability of 0.3 seconds or 5 percent as compared to the previous generation hardtop.

Moreover, the technology for the engine, suspension, body and interior have all been derived directly from motorsport racing. In this way they define the exclusive and performance-oriented character of the 2015 JCW. Just take a look at the pictures of the interior. We have rarely seen such exquisiteness and craftsmanship in a production car.

Of course, the car has been created in order to appeal to those, who appreciate authentic race feeling. The 228 hp engine, the sports exhaust system and sports suspension are complemented by the 17-inch John Cooper Works light alloy wheels.

In addition, a special sports brake system was developed. For this MINI collaborated with the specialists at Brembo. The John Cooper Works aerodynamics kit comprises of a model-specific rear spoiler and newly developed John Cooper Works sports seats, which include integrated headrest.

This set of characteristics reflects not only in the high-speed acceleration capacity but also in car’s exceptional agility, a high degree of steering precision and precise handling on the road as well as excellent deceleration figures. Ever since John Cooper discovered the racing talent of the classic Mini in the 60’s, his name became a symbol of MINI’s success on the race track.

Source: MINI

December 11, 2014

Mcchip-DKR Mini John Cooper Works With A 2.0 TFSI And DSG Gearbox

Mcchip-DKR-Mini-John-Cooper-Works-TFSI-DSG-shadow How often do you get to see some tuner house behind the scenes action? Most of the time it’s just figures and dyno graphs. Ever wondered what it takes to actually do a proper overhaul?

If you have, it’s your lucky day. The guys at Mcchip-DKR have the uncanny idea to lift and transplant a Volkswagen TFSI engine. The recipient? A Mini John Cooper Works. Apparently, the JCW Mini’s 208 hp and 261 Nm of torque just don’t make the cut. Mcchip are anticipating a much more volatile end product with 340 to 350 hp.

The Mini’s new heart, a VAG 2.0 TFSI engine, is supposed to get new pistons and rods before the transfer. A Stage 3 kit (VLN Package) should yeald the desired power output. The rest of the JCW drive train has also been scrapped in favour of a DQ250 DSG transmission and a Drexler differential lock.

Judging by the provided picture material, we’d reckon Mcchip are going through quite a lot of hassle. If, however, everything goes as planned, this should be one demonic piece of work.

Mcchip-DKR-Mini-John-Cooper-Works-TFSI-DSG 02

Source: Mcchip-DKR

January 21, 2014

MINI John Cooper Works Concept To Debut In Detroit

MINI John Cooper Works Concept will make its official first world appearance at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit next year. The concept features all of the highlights that are typical for the MINI Style but includes technology lifted straight from the race track.

One can see that the car also features all of the details that are typical for the John Cooper Works style, including exclusive body paintwork in Bright Highways Grey, familiar MINI red colour accents, bespoke aerodynamic features and 18-inch John Cooper Works light-alloy wheels in a newly developed design.

The aim of the engineers and designers with this concept was to deliver the ultimate driving experience for those behind the wheel. This was made possible thanks to the precise interplay of the ultra-high-performance powertrain and chassis technology with the car’s aerodynamically improved exterior. In addition, these enhancements also contribute towards an agile and surefooted handling.

This concept vehicle is based on the latest-generation MINI. This means benefits in terms of weight savings, aerodynamics, and more. Large air intakes – filling the space reserved for fog lights in the series-produced MINI models – and precisely formed air-channelling elements mark out the front apron of the MINI John Cooper Works Concept, which also features LED headlights and a black surround for the front grille.

A special aerodynamic kit is also added and it comprises of specially contoured side skirts and a rear apron with flaps and a diffuser element. The car also includes a roof spoiler and additional body components. They serve in channeling the air efficiently around the C-pillars for optimized aerodynamic balance at high speeds.

The exterior appearance of the study car is exceptional. It features a Bright Highways Grey exterior paint shade over which is applied a hand-polished surface layer with a clear coat. This results in lustrous sheen of the paintwork. A contrasting red is utilized for the roof, roof spoiler and exterior mirror caps.

Also included are Sport Stripes in Chili Red for the bonnet and boot lid, and in white for the roof. Red accents can also be seen on the rim wells of the JCW light-alloy wheels, the callipers of the sports brakes, the side indicator surrounds and the contour lines of the front and rear apron.

John Cooper Works logo is positioned on the radiator grille. A special exhaust system is also featured and it includes the JCW silencer system, and the striking twin tailpipes with chrome finish that also carry the logo.

Source: MINI

December 18, 2013

EXCLUSIVE: 2013 MINI John Cooper Works Countryman ALL4 Dakar

2013 MINI John Cooper Works Countryman ALL4 Dakar is a limited-run special edition vehicle, an all-wheel-drive performance machine which has an exclusive, partly hand-built design and equipment inspired by Stéphane Peterhansel and Jean-Paul Cottret’s victorious MINI ALL4 Racing machine.

The launch of this special-edition MINI is happening in order to celebrate their triumph in the Dakar Rally 2013. The duo of Stéphane Peterhansel and Jean-Paul Cottret were piloting their MINI ALL4 Racing and made it to the number one place at the world’s toughest rally event for the second year in a row.

This model is a limited-edition tribute to its rally inspiration and only eleven examples of the car will be built. 2013 MINI John Cooper Works Countryman ALL4 Dakar has exclusive design and equipment features which contribute towards the increase of the thrill and the euphoria around the model.

As a basis for the new model served the MINI John Cooper Works Countryman. The latter is MINI’s first model which has included a race-bred powertrain and chassis technology with the all-wheel-drive system. In addition, the ALL4 serves up optimum traction and directional stability in all weather and under-wheel conditions. It also provides a noticeable increase in agility through dynamically taken corners.

As a matter of fact, the all-wheel-drive system channels the power from the 160 kW (218 hp) turbocharged four-cylinder engine to the all four wheels. The exterior color was inspired by the one off the Dakar-taming MINI ALL4 Racing which is matt black. IN addition, there are some special bright green design accents for the exterior and interior.

To go even further into details, some of them include Sport Stripes, which bear both the Dakar Rally winner’s logo and the signature of victorious driver Peterhansel on the bonnet. In addition, the green stripes along the car’s flanks feature “MINI ALL4 Racing” lettering, while the driver and front passenger doors display the car number 302 and the names of the victorious pairing.

Dakar winner’s logo can also be spotted next to the John Cooper Works badge at the rear of the car MINI. The interior in the cabin includes a green contrast stitching for the gearshift lever gaiter and floor mats, and the green embroidered winner’s logo on the head restraints. These green accents are complemented by green stripes for the black interior trim strip on the centre console.

On the interior trim strip above the glove compartment can also be seen a special-edition logo with serial number. The sports steering wheel and Gravity Black leather sports seats also feed into the cockpit’s evocative sports car ambience.

At last, for more sproty and spirited appearance, to the car were added auxiliary spotlights, bespoke side indicator surrounds and 19-inch light-alloy wheels in Cross-Spoke Crusher design. They all add the final touches to the exclusive 2013 MINI John Cooper Works Countryman ALL4 Dakar.

Source: MINI

March 4, 2013

MINI Paceman John Cooper Works to Debut At NAIAS

MINI Paceman John Cooper Works is the latest addition in the MINI range which aims to bring more elite performance to the automotive world. The model is based on the first compact Sports Activity Coupé.

Here the driver and passengers have four individual seats which help them enjoy better the racing experience. The driving excitement is ensured by the turbocharged engine, which generates 160 kW (218 hp). Of course, the standard equipment includes ALL4 all-wheel drive, an aerodynamic kit, 18-inch light-alloy wheels and lowered sports suspension.

As a matter of fact, the MINI Paceman John Cooper Works is set to give mouthwatering sporting flair and inimitable style. Its goal is to introduce a new dimension in driving fun to the premium compact segment.

The race-bred powertrain and chassis technology which are its equipment bring poise and assurance on the road. Moreover, the lowered sports suspension and an aerodynamic kit add to the irresistible feeling of race competition to the driver and occupants.

John Cooper Works Paceman’s driving characteristics and design deliver instantaneous power and an unquenchable appetite for revs. The turbocharged power unit under the bonnet is mated to a six-speed manual gearbox as standard. What’s more – for those who prefer automatic transmissions, there is an optional six-speed automatic one.

More importantly, the numbers here are astounding. MINI John Cooper Works Paceman accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in only 6.9 seconds with either of the gearbox variants. What is very surprising is the fuel economy: the average fuel consumption is rated at 7.4 litres (automatic: 7.9 litres) per 100 kilometres / 38.2 (35.8) mpg imp.

Next, what adds even more to the distinctive style of this special edition Paceman are the bespoke design features. Standard specification includes an aerodynamic kit, 18-inch light-alloy wheels, a sports exhaust system with chrome tailpipes, and door sills bearing the John Cooper Works logo.

MINI Paceman John Cooper Works Interior

What come as an option are the white and black and the exclusive Chili Red paint finish for the contrast-colour roof and exterior mirror caps. And customers can also lend an extra edge to the typical John Cooper Works sports car feeling inside the car with bespoke accents such as Chili Red interior trim strips.

The new MINI model will make its world premiere at the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit in January 2013. Then, it will be officially launched in March 2013.

Source: MINI

December 14, 2012

2013 MINI John Cooper Works Countryman – Pricing Announced

MINI John Cooper Works Countryman is the latest model by the adored MINI brand which is receiving the badge of John Cooper Works sub-brand. This in fact is a performance model of the range and the first to come with MINI ALL4 all-wheel drive.

In addition, this model is for those who seek racing passion on the road with extreme driving fun on rough terrain. The JCW Countryman is powered by the newly developed four-cylinder turbocharged engine with 1.6-litre displacement.

In fact the latter has a maximum output of 160 kW (218 hp) and a peak torque of 280 Newton metres (207 lb-ft). These numbers makes the model the most powerful drive unit in the MINI model range.

Furthermore, this vehicle is designed by construction principles and with the help of materials adapted specially from race-trim cars. Thanks to the featured valvetronic technology, the car has a compelling performance and can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 7.0 seconds.

Additionally, the engineers didn’t forget about the efficiency factor, for this purpose they have equipped the car with an extensive range of MINIMALISM technology, including Brake Energy Regeneration, Gear Shift Indicator, Auto Start-Stop function and Electric Power Steering.

Six-speed manual gearbox is fitted here as standard. The six-speed automatic gearbox with Steptronic function and steering wheel shift paddles can be optionally chosen.

The innovation here however is the MINI ALL4 permanent all-wheel drive. As a matter of fact, it makes its debut in a John Cooper Works model. In particular, the distribution of power varies seamlessly between the front and rear axles by an electromagnetic centre differential positioned directly on the final drive.

The car is exactly 4,133-millimetre-long, 1,789-millimetre-wide and 1,549-millimetre-tall. This means that it gets generous levels of space and seating comfort, which encourage the driver and passengers to admire the qualities of this versatile performance athlete over longer journeys as well.

The MINI is also equipped with DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) including DTC (Dynamic Traction Control) and EDLC (Electronic Differential Lock Control) linked up to ALL4 all-wheel drive. And this is as a standard!

Sophisticated chassis technology is provided of course from MacPherson in the form of struts at the front axle and a central-arm rear axle. Extra-lightweight 18-inch Twin Spoke light-alloy wheels are also to be enjoyed by the customers who opt for the standard equipment.

Moreover, the customers can choose between seven exterior paint shades. Of course, contrast paint finishes are included for the roof and exterior mirror caps in white and black. The interior has an exclusive John Cooper Works cockpit design with sports seats, sports steering wheel, interior trim strips in Piano Black, anthracite-colored roof liner and dark speedometer and rev counter dials.

2013 MINI John Cooper Works Countryman will cost £28 595 in the UK.