It Officially Works! Cooper & Clubman Gain JCW Works

Mini is now completely up to speed when it comes to their performance

products. Yes, getting the John Cooper Works model to market has been a

bit of a slow process, despite it being a big performance hit with the

previous generation car. Currently available as bolt on parts,

factory-finished cars are now available for the regular Cooper and the

new Cooper Clubman wagon. Components include an upgraded engine

computer, a new exhaust system with high-flow components, and more.

According

to the information issued in conjunction with the Geneva show (European

info), the tweaked S-model Cooper and Clubman now make 211 horsepower,

which is a nice, healthy step upwards from the current 172 horsepower.

Under normal conditions, the torque is bumped up to 192 lb-ft, which is

identical to the Cooper S when on overboost; the upgraded model gains

even more torque for a total of 206 lb-ft, a lot for such a little

package.

In terms of acceleration gains, you'll be looking at 6.5

seconds from 0-60 mph for the three-door Cooper and 6.8 seconds for

the heavier Clubman, down from 7.1 and 7.4 seconds respectively.

Because

there's so much extra power headed through the same wheels that steer,

the Works cars gain a new Electronic Locking Differential, which is

designed to put power to the ground as efficiently as possible. When

the DSC stability control is turned off, it stops power from being

wasted away in wheelspin. When stability and traction control are on,

the on-board computer limits the torque, thereby reducing slip and

torque steer.

Prices and exact details for the Works cars have

yet to be revealed for North America, but they will certainly play a

big part in maintaining the Mini as one of the most exciting front

wheel drive cars on the market.