John Cooper Works, the longstanding performance arm for the all mighty Mini is readying to debut the JCW Challenge in all it’s track loving glory @ the Frankfurt Motor Show this year.

Higher speed, more torque, faster acceleration and increased levels of grip on the JCW Challenge will ensure this Mini will reach for the boiling point on the hot hatch temperature gauge.

Internally the JCW Challenge is all business. Designed straight for the track the JCW Challenge’s highlights include the full rollcage, HANS (Head And Neck Support) system, Sparco steering wheel and Recaro bucket seats. Externally a JCW Aerodynamics Kit enhances the ‘Get me on the track NOW’ image with adjustable rear spoiler, rear diffuser and performance front spoiler the highlights.

Most importantly of course, JCW haven’t scrimped on the mechanical upgrades with a long list of overall chassis and driveshaft improvements that ensure it not only handles like a go kart, but also delivers an additional 35 Hp (210 Hp in total) over the standard Cooper S.

Full mechanical details can be found in the press release on the click through. What an amazingly sexy vehicle.

Race is on for new MINI John Cooper Works CHALLENGE

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. Set for its first public appearance at the forthcoming IAA Motor Show in Frankfurt, deliveries of the new car will take place from spring 2008.

Key characteristics of the new car include a higher top speed, increased torque, faster acceleration and optimised traction. Performance figures are detailed below:

Model-Power -Torque -0 – 62mph -Top speed

MINI Cooper S-175 Hp-240 Nm*-7.1 sec -140 mph

MINI CHALLENGE -210 Hp -260 Nm **-6.1 sec -149 mph

*260Nm with Overboost **280Nm with Overboost

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 callipers 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.

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.