One for the enthusiasts

Mini unveiled the world"s fastest small premium cabriolet at the recent Geneva International Motor Show. The Mini John Cooper Works Convertible went on sale in Ireland last week. The car features the same high-performance engineering modifications as the hatchback model carrying the John Cooper Works badge. Mini claims that the convertible"s 1.6 litre twin scroll turbocharged engine produces 211bhp and up to 280Nm peak torque with the over-boost system deployed. The newcomer"s petrol engine is a significantly revised version of the 1.6 litre turbo unit found in Mini Cooper S models, and the same as that in the Mini Challenge race car. The engine is lighter, stronger and is supplied with a larger air intake and an exhaust system specifically designed for John Cooper Works cars. The transmission"s gearing is strengthened to handle the extra available power; power that pushes the car to a remarkable output of 132bhp per litre, yet still able to offer an impressive 7.1 l/100km. The lengthy standard kit list of every Mini Convertible includes a bespoke John Cooper Works Alcantara steering wheel, sport seats, John Cooper Works floor mats and glossy piano black interior. Air conditioning is fitted as standard. Performance of the Works car is underlined by an exclusive speedometer, which runs to 260km/h to account for the car"s higher top speed than that of any other Mini. A Sport button is located in front of the gear stick. When pressed, it activates a bespoke engine control map producing boost earlier in the rev range and sharpening steering and throttle response. The gear knob, featuring a red gearing diagram, is unique to the Mini John Cooper Works. Extra large disc brakes paired with upgraded bright red Brembo performance calipers are supplied. Chassis technologies ensuring a sporty and safe driving experience are also standard features of the Mini. Unique to these models is electronic differential lock control (EDLC). With dynamic stability control (DSC) fully deactivated, the car"s EDLC delivers an even sportier driving experience. EDLC works when the car is accelerating hard out of corners or tight bends. In this situation, it electronically slows the spinning inside wheel to enhance grip and ensure that all available power is transferred to the road through the wheel with greatest traction. In contrast to the way DSC and DTC manage power delivery to the wheels, EDLC does not intervene with the throughput of engine power, meaning the driver is in near total control of the handling of the car.