Mini John Cooper Works Convertible.
The BMW Group has won over a legion of fans with the Mini brand. The Mini Challenge racing series is a growing success and with the John Cooper Works models, Mini addicts are discovering cars that deliver near track levels of performance.
So, it’s fitting that following up on the launch of the Mini Convertible, which we drove just last month, Mini brings to the 2009 Geneva Motor Show a topless version of the John Cooper Works, the fast-growing brand’s third sporty model, after the original JCW and the Mini JCW Clubman.
The numbers are impressive, though we expect to see some JCW buyers trying to prove the factory conservative in its published 0 to 60 times of 6.7 seconds. The big speedo in the center of the dash is certainly going to encourage experimentation, with its 146 mph top speed.
More power, more fun. Still topless.
Starting out with the Cooper S 1.6-liter engine, Mini has added a larger air intake and an improved exhaust system, but the real key is a twin-scroll turbocharger that boosts pressures from a peak of 0.9 to an impressive 1.3 bars. That drives horsepower from 172 to 211 hp, while maximum torque jumps from 177 to 192 lb-ft between 1,800 and 5,500 revs. During overboost torque peaks at 207 lb-ft. To handle such demands, incidentally, some reinforced lightweight parts were lifted from the Mini Challenge race car. The transmission gearing has also been upgraded.
Visually, the JCW stands out with the aerodynamic package and 17-inch cross spoke alloy wheels that show off the red Brembo brake calipers. When ESP is not operating, an electronic differential lock control enhances grip without cutting engine power.
Inside there will be the same JCW details as we have already seen on the hardtop, such as an exclusive speedometer, piano black trim on the sport seats and an alcantara-lavished steering wheel and shift knob.
At the end of March, Mini will launch production of the John Cooper Works Convertible.
Prices have yet to be announced, though the base Convertible will go for $24,550 and the Cooper S for $27,450. So expect the JCW Convertible to be in the low $30,000 range.