Unleashing the Power of the Custom MINI JCW: A Thrilling Nürburgring Endurance Race Experience

True to its roots, two custom MINI John Cooper Works (JCW) is gearing up for the 51st Nürburgring Endurance Race. John Cooper’s own grandson, Charlie Cooper, will do the honors in a red MINI 6-speed manual JCW that kept audiences on the edges of their seats during the momentous 50th Nürburg all-day (and night) event.

The road-hardened JCW underwent continuous work over the winter, courtesy of Bulldog Racing, who slapped a massive spoiler onto the back and carved out the interior to create a modified single-OMP-seat cabin. The extra space also made it possible to install a full roll cage — and for reduced weight, they swapped out the windows with Makrolon polycarbonate sheets. 

Naturally, the Bulldog engineers sought maximum fuel capacity, fitting an over a 26-gallon tank to ensure minimal pit stops; it was excessive pit stops (although more to do with tire misfortune) that most dramatically impacted performance during last year’s race.

The MINI 6-Speed Manual: A Classic Through and Through

While it’s unlikely our customers will need that kind of racing grit in their daily runs, it’s a solid testament to the latent capacities of the manual six-speed MINI Cooper in general. After supply chain issues caused a temporary shortage of 6-speed productions, MINI was able to resurrect the 6-speed manual option in 2023; but only on select trim options for two-door hardtop models, meaning essentially:

• The MINI Cooper
• MINI Cooper S
• The MINI JCW Variant

Those hoping for the same manual option for the MINI Cooper Classic had to sit this lap out, as MINI forewent the lowest trim level entirely. As a result, the “entry level” option was automatically notched up — meaning a higher initial price point, but greater minimum performance.

As MINI is joining in on the all-electric-or-nothing wave, it may be the last remaining years for a traditional MINI 6-speed manual.

Get Your Hands on a Manual Six-Speed MINI Cooper at Braman MINI Palm Beach

We’re proud to feature MINI’s latest lineup of both traditional and electric drivetrains, including the illustrious six-speed manuals. For a full racing feel, nothing compares to a true manual, and our MINI Cooper enthusiasts are standing by to show you firsthand. As always, contact us with any questions, or visit Braman’s Palm Beach dealership to test drive one today.