Downforce is crucial in racing. The more traction a car has, the more stable and predictable the performance. If this is the case, the latest 24H Nürburgring prepped Mini JCW and its enormous rear wing should be able to deliver on both of these fronts for the endurance race in the Nordschleife.
After a 10-year hiatus from the 24H Nurburgring endurance race, JCW will return with an SP3T class entry from private team Bulldog Racing. Not only does it come with upgraded exterior modifications but the powertrain and interior has been done-up to cope with the regulations of the endurance event.
The turbocharged four-cylinder taken from the flagship Countryman and Clubman churns out 225 kW and 450 N.m. Power is delivered to the front wheels via an eight-speed Steptronic gearbox which is employed in the street version however a mechanical differential lock which optimises torque distribution has been installed.
With all of this power requires some serious stopping power so JCW has borrowed brakes from its parent company BMW and its M Performance division. This specific model also includes a pneumatic lift making it easier to raise the vehicle during pit stops.
The rest of the exterior includes an enlarged rear diffuser and centre-mounted exhaust with an aggressive looking front splitter. Obviously we can’t forget that the 24H Nürburgring prepped Mini JCW also includes a maxi sized rear wing as part of the upgrades. Did we mention that the model is sporting juicy Hankook Ventus semi-slick tyres which should glue the properly hot hatch to the tarmac of the 25 km German circuit.
The interior has been stripped out in favour of a full roll cage and OMP race seat. The fuel tanks volume has been increased to 100 litres while the standard glass windows have been turfed and Makrolon window panels have been installed in their place. The 24H Nürburgring prepped Mini JCW looks like serious fun to drive!