Another review is in from the recent GP press event. This time from AutoExpress. Here’s an excerpt:
>Developing 215bhp (Ed: yes it’s actually 218bhp) and 245Nm of torque, the GP has only 8bhp more than the Cooper S Works, but the key to its appeal is not raw performance, but pure excitement. With reworked suspension, the way the hatchback turns into bends is simply sensational. So well sorted is the chassis that it can be steered using the throttle almost like a rear-wheel-drive sports car. Lift off the accelerator mid-corner and the nose tucks in tight, while get back on the power and balance is returned, along with a supercharged burst of acceleration.
[ GP is the ultimate MINI adventure ] AutoExpress
Great review and 5 stars – perfect!
Go to the bottom of the page on the Autoexpress website and it has a link for Evo magazine – check out the GP review next month!
It will be interesting to see if you actually can notice the difference between the GP and the Works – I am not fully convinced yet with such a small difference in the 0-62 times!
It’ll certainly feel more involving to drive – mainly down to the sound deadening meaning the car will feel faster because of the extra noise…. I would be surprised to see any measurable diffence between a standard Works and a GP. Sure is going to be a great car to own though.
Roof number 0719 again
TonyT I could not agree more – I think one of the main reasons that driving any Mini is such fun is because it is low (which makes it seem faster) and the super-charged engines have a great noise! Then as you mentioned the experience with the GP will be enhanced due to the sound deadening being removed etc.
In the Autocar review of the GP it mentions that both the GTI and Focus RS are slicker machines as the suspension is smoother and there is less noise! Maybe it is just me (and I would be biased) but in my opinion for driving experience and point to point speed the Mini GP (or Works) is a faster and more enjoyable car! It is everything that you would want from a sports car, however, if I wanted something sporty and had a family then I would take the GTI but obviously not because it was a better sports car?
Was expecting to have to fork out for lockable wheel nuts but if my eyes are’nt playing tricks on me, it looks like they are already fitted as standard. Anyone else see that?
It seems strange that the oxford plant couldn’t handle 2000 more units. what will happen when they add the wagon to the line? Are they planning on subing that out also? It is also a good example of how far Europe and the World have come that a German owned British car company can use an Italian coach builder.
I really dig the fron seats. Too bad the GP doesn’t have a back seat (An absolute must for me).
Lockable wheelnuts are standard in many markets (South Africa included). Best to check with your dealer whether they are included in your locale.