hot hatch specials are two a penny these days, with manufacturers thinking nothing of junking non-essential standard kit – even the rear seats – to up the performance, tighten the handling and increase the presence of their models at track days across the country. But back in 2006, the idea of a numbered, two-seater version of the R53 MINI Cooper S, with unique suspension and bodykit, seemed nothing but a rumour throughout first-generation MINI production. However, when the GP was confirmed at the 2006 MINI United event in Misano, Italy, all the UK cars quickly sold out. Owners liked the giantkilling package, and in fact, it worked so well that BMW brought back the GP for the secondgeneration MINI in 2012, and more recently again in 2020, with the fastest yet based on the thirdgeneration F56 hatch.
A BRIEF HISTORY
Launched in summer 2006, just one version of the R53 Cooper S with John Cooper Works GP kit (to give it its full name) was available. Power came courtesy of the Cooper S’s supercharged 1.6-litre Tritec four-cylinder, with JCW parts including a faster-spinning supercharger, revised intake system, uprated injectors and a freer-f lowing
