Racing Across A 25-Km Course, The Mini John Cooper Works At The Nürburgring 24-Hour Race

Making a comeback after a ten-year break for the ultimate endurance test, a Mini John Cooper Works to compete in the legendary Nürburgring 24-hour race. 

Happening this year from May 26 to 29, the race car entered by the private team Bulldog Racing will showcase its prowess in the SP3T class.

Outstandingly, the 50th edition of the high-speed showdown races across a 25 km course consisting of the Grand Prix circuit and the Nordschleife of the Nürburgring.

Build Foundation

The base vehicle is a Mini John Cooper Works sporting the 4-cylinder turbo engine known from the Mini John Cooper Works Clubman and Countryman. 

Paired to the 8-speed Steptronic gearbox taken from large-series-production, it churns out up to 225 kW/306 hp and 450 Nm of maximum torque.

Notably, the gearbox features an integrated, mechanical differential lock with up to 70 percent locking effect. 

This ensures that the Mini John Cooper Works’ drive torque is converted into thrilling performance without any losses.

Racing Modifications

For racing purposes, the following modifications were made to the standard Mini John Cooper Works which go beyond SP3T class regulations:

• Installation of a racing cage specially developed for this model.
• The fuel tank volume was increased to 100 litres.
• Drastic aerodynamics, including an adjustable rear wing, a completely covered underbody, a rear diffuser and front splitter.
• Weight was consistently reduced, e.g., by using Makrolon window panes.
• A model-specific racing suspension with adjustable rebound and compression damping was fitted.
• All moving chassis and suspension parts were replaced with reinforced Uniball bearings
• A pneumatic lifting unit was installed.
• Sports exhaust system was adapted with a racing catalytic converter.
• Original BMW M Performance brake components were installed

Perfecting it, this ‘Made in Nürburg’ racing car pays homage to the racing tradition of the Mini brand in the red and white classic colour scheme of the 1960s racing cars.

High-Speed Schedule

Until the start of the 24-hour race, further tests are scheduled on the Nordschleife of the Nürburgring and at the BMW Group testing centre in Miramas in southern France. 

Located between Marseille and Avignon, the former race track offers the best conditions for extensive testing and optimisation under a wide range of conditions. 

Significantly, at the location, the chassis of the Mini John Cooper Works racing car is subjected to an extensive and varied test programme. 

Bulldog Racing’s boss and Nürburgring expert, Friedhelm Thelen, concluded, "The 24-hour race at the Nürburgring puts all components of the vehicle under extreme stress. That's why we're delighted to be able to use the BMW Group Test Centre to put the John Cooper Works through its paces there."