Behind the Design: Mini John Cooper Works GP
Inspired by the brand’s legendary motor racing achievements, this model – limited to just 3000 units – embodies maximum performance and uncompromising dynamics, says Mini.
The Mini John Cooper Works GP follows on from the likewise limited-edition John Cooper Works GP small series of 2013 and 2006.
Created by Oliver Heilmer, Head of Mini Design, let’s see what makes it so special.
Head of Mini design, Oliver Heilmer (above), created the limited-edition JCW GP. Photo: Mini
The exterior
The flat front section with its wide track, large front apron, flared wheel arches and a rear wing visible even from the front instantly conveys uncompromising dynamic performance.
Classic Mini icons such as the elliptical headlights and the hexagonal radiator grille ensure a clear-cut sense of identity and high recognition value. At the same time, characteristic John Cooper Works elements such as the hood scoop in the bonnet and the hexagonal honeycomb grille with GP logo in the radiator grille underscore the sporty perception of the front.
The side view of the Mini John Cooper Works GP reveals the sportiest Mini silhouette to date. The interplay between the narrowing window area and the rising shoulder line traces a wedge shape at the side that gives the impression of acceleration even when the car is stationary.
Below this, voluminous surfaces form a powerful vehicle corpus. The large front apron and large roof spoiler give the side view maximum sporty flair as well as ensuring aerodynamic optimum performance.
The exterior paint finish Racing Grey metallic alternates between light grey and blue-violet, creating a powerful sense of depth, while the roof and mirror caps are finished in Melting Silver.
All typical chrome elements at the front, side and rear such as Mini logos, door handles, fuel filler cap, side scuttle and headlight surrounds are finished in high-gloss black in this small-scale series.
The hood scoop in the bonnet and the hexagonal honeycomb grille makes it stand out. Photo: Mini
Racing feeling with striking colour
Deliberate Mini-malism in terms of form and colour focuses on technology, further emphasised by coloured accentuations in high-gloss Chilli Red and matt Rosso metallic.
The use of lightweight materials such as carbon fibre optimises the power-to-weight ratio, while the highly optimised axle load distribution promises the hallmark Mini go-kart feeling.
The highlight in the side view are the attached wheel arch covers – so-called spats – which are made of carbon fibre. Elaborately hand-crafted recycled carbon fleece from the Landshut plant is used here.
For the first time, the carbon fibre fabric is directly visible and showcased by means of black hexagon stitching. Meanwhile the numbering in the front spat shows the small-series production number.
The rear spoiler is the stand-out feature of the limited-edition Mini. Photo: Mini
The 18” lightweight forged wheels in bi-colour design interpret the striking four-spoke theme of the Mini John Cooper Works GP in filigree style. It is the lightest 18in forged wheel ever to feature in the Mini, making a significant contribution to weight reduction.
The rear section echoes the distinctive front and side design. The expressive roof spoiler is not only a statement in sporty styling: its shape also ensures optimum downforce and fits in perfectly with the geometry. The same goes for the air diffusers and air ducting surfaces in the apron.
Prominently placed at the centre of the lower rear area, the classic double tailpipe embodies the John Cooper Works DNA. The bright stainless steel double tailpipes are manufactured with the largest possible diameter and protrude powerfully and puristically from the diffuser.
The interior features such elements as the GP symbol. Photo: Mini
The interior
The interior of the Mini John Cooper Works GP combines purist sporty flair with powerful colour accentuations. The dark colour and material concept creates a reduced, sporty basic mood, with high-quality, deliberately coloured details at selected points. In the driver area, the new free-standing digital instrument cluster on the steering column puts the relevant information in the driver's field of vision as required by the situation at hand.
Story courtesy of Mini
Head of Mini Design Oliver Heilmer checks out the finished work. Photos: Mini
