MINI performance is to be taken to new levels with the new MINI John Cooper Works CHALLENGE, a MINI Cooper S built specifically for track use and ready to race. Key characteristics of the new car include a higher top speed, increased torque, faster acceleration and optimised traction. Power enhancements are at the core of the striking CHALLENGE car's modifications. As well as a re-developed twin-scroll turbocharger, the standard MINI Cooper S engine receives modified pistons, air filter, air intake passage, catalytic converter, exhaust components, electronic sensors and engine management system.

Numerous chassis and suspension tweaks add to what is a finely-tuned racing package. The new suspension system features adjustable damper units from KW Automotive, designed specifically for motorsport. A six-speed manual gearbox transmits power to 17" front wheels made by Borbet and shod with exclusive new racing tyres manufactured by Dunlop.

Body revisions based on the John Cooper Works Aerodynamic Kit, currently available from all MINI dealers, are key features of the CHALLENGE car's set-up. To generate increased downforce at higher speeds, CHALLENGE car owners can expect a new adjustable rear spoiler, rear diffuser and performance front spoiler. The new braking system performs exceptionally. Large four-piston calipers mean the car can go from 62 - 0mph in just 3.1 seconds. A race-specific ABS configuration and an air-pressure elevating system complete the product modifications, which together equate to a vehicle 30kg lighter than the previous CHALLENGE car.

Safety measures perfect the array of MINI CHALLENGE car features. A roll cage welded firmly to the body of the car houses RECARO bucket seats combined with a six-point safety belt, along with the HANS (Head And Neck Support) system used in Formula 1 cars.

Although the car is designed for race participation, private owners may find owning a MINI CHALLENGE car a compelling prospect. However, the car will not be licensed for public roads and as such is expected to maintain its appeal among racing enthusiasts.
The MINI Challenge race series is fast gaining presence and popularity around the world. Since 2004, Challenge races have been staged in Germany, the Netherlands, Belgium, Austria and New Zealand. In 2008, MINI Australia will also hold a Challenge competition.



Link:

http://www.fast-autos.net/vehicles/M...rks_Challenge/

 

 

 

Interested to see some real pictures of this car.
I can't really decide on it from the renderings.

 

pretty cool...not sure what factory support is currently available, but its about time considering the popularity of various spec and challenge mini series springing up over the past few years

 

that looks hot, almost makes me want to touch my mini

 

Wow, that car looks insane! Too bad it's not street legal, hopefully the regular JCW kit looks somewhat similar.

 

Ouch now thats eye Catching, very niceee. Give this little baby 300hbp+ and a rear wheel drive conversion and you have a devil.

 

looks damn cute.

 

ha! i have yet to have anyone that has run w/ me on the track come up to me and describe my car as "cute". they do, however, stare at the small, mostly unaltered engine and shake their heads.

from what i've heard, performance will be better than described in the above reference article. we'll see. prices will be in the $60k range.

 

That car would be a great platform to start off with for someone wanting to dominate FWD class Time Attack series.

 

Some purschase info and pics from Frankfurt 2007:

Race teams will receive the first MINI CHALLENGE cars from March 2008. Private customers not competing in the MINI Challenge series can expect deliveries of cars from June 2008. An order form for the car can be downloaded from 11 September 2007 at www.MINI.com/challenge-car and the expected price is €49,900 inc. VAT.







Link:

http://www.autoblog.com/2007/09/12/f...hallenging-mi/

 

 

looks really dope!

 

Very nice!

I've been toying with the idea of building a newer mini and putting the STi motor/trans/susp. under it. It would require building a full custom chassis for the STi parts and setting the Mini body of the top of it.

Thoughts? AWD, 450+HP with mods with a narrow little wheel base... Could be a fun daily driver that would still get 25mph.