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Latest John Cooper Works MINI Mixes Kitsch And Sporting Heritage

By George Polgar

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) — The newest MINI John Cooper Works Clubman All4 edition pays homage to the original MINI which made the jump from humble economy car, born of the mid-50s Suez Canal fuel crisis, to a world class rally, stock car circuit racer, and 60's pop culture icon.

The John Cooper Company, a Formula One Constructors Champion in 1959 and 1960, created a pint-sized racing engine, which took the MINI to new heights of exuberant performance.

Since 2001 the MINI series under BMW ownership has been a resounding success in the identity politics of car marketing. Its quirky good looks – low and boxy with the wheels pushed far out to the four corners – has attracted buyers of adventuresome tastes on a broad age spectrum from cool seeking Millennial to nostalgic Boomers.

The driven ethic of the current management has produced a nicely engineered and well-put-together product that makes the most of the original MINI format. And though the original MINI of nearly 60 years ago made its mark on the pro and amateur racing circuit ... they were a far cry from the precisely crafted and jaunty handling rigs of today.

The latest John Cooper Works edition packs a boisterous 228 horsepower German built 2.0-liter turbo four and an amazingly spacious and accommodating 4-door. The premium finishes of the interior are highlighted by the kitschy huge circular center-dash mounted instrument console.

Base priced at $35,000 the maxed out MINI sport model tops $45,000.

Seating capacity: 5

MSRP: $35,000 - $45,000
Horsepower: 228 hp
Dimensions: 168"  L x 71" W x 57" H
Curb weight: 3,450 lbs
Wheel size: 18" diameter, 8" width

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