The top-of-the-range Mini model from the last generation was the John Cooper Works GP, which was produced in a limited series of 2000 units. Now it seems like a new GP version of the current Mini is also in the works, as these spy shots taken just outside the famous Nürburgring would suggest.

Looking at the pictured mule, there are a few key indicators that would confirm this theory: the new front bumper and spoiler, the massive rear diffuser (clearly derived from the Challenge race car), the lower suspension (see the very small wheel-tire gap) and, most of all, the massive spoiler at the back end of the roof. Besides, those wheels are pretty reminiscent of the set used by the original GP too, although they have a more modern touch.

The new Mini Cooper S JCW GP is expected to come with - at least - 220 hp, and should be significantly lighter than its predecessor, which would make it that sort of pocket rocket that many Mini fans around the globe have been eagerly waiting for. The new model might actually be ready to debut by the end of the current year.

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I love these English programs - you get two guys fanging around a track mouthing each other off about who’s going to win with what car. It sounds like a whole lot of fun to me.

In this older episode of Fifth Gear, the guys get out the Mini Cooper S and Renault Clio for an agility test and then the speed drive. With the usual hilarity about “how big is your garage”, the Clio comes off better in the agility test.

And suprisingly it also is a whole second faster in the speed test too. Being a whole lot cheaper, if you’re about your car’s performance and not it’s look, you know what you’ll buy. Enjoy the video.

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