"The Mini needs little introduction; from the early days of the Mk. I and Mk. II through to the acquisition of Austin Rover by BMW and the advent of the newer, beefier, Mini. As is the way of things, quick versions were always popular. John Cooper Works (JCW), based in Hampshire, founded by Michael Cooper, son of John Cooper, produced tuning parts and accessories for the new Mini. The ultimate incarnation of the upgrades offered by JCW was an entire car commonly referred to as the GP. This used the supercharged Tritec engine. It was a lightweight, quasi-race-prepared John Cooper Works model hand-finished by Bertone in Italy and offered as a limited production run of 2,000 cars during 2006 with only 444 ending up on UK soil. Supplied with Recaro front seats (nothing in the rear apart from a stiffening bar), it also boasted a recalibrated engine management system with intercooler to aid the turbo-charged engine post excellent times on the circuit. Advanced braking, advanced suspension geometry, free-flowing exhaust and a smooth underbody all helped. Even the throttle was a drive-by-wire item and, combined, with other driver aids, made for a formidable weapon.
Number 355, this car has covered only 60,328 miles. Presented in fantastic condition, it is testament to its enthusiast previous owners and how well they cared for it. The optional extras include a unique Thunder Blue body colour with silver roof and contrasting red mirror caps, numbered decals on the roof showing the car number which is also etched on the rear view mirrors. A unique Aero kit, carbon fibre rear wing, a wing spoiler and under body panelling for improved aerodynamics, unique 18″ lightweight wheels and unique anthracite speedometer and revolution counter dials are also part of the Works GP modifications. The apt ‘GP03 SSS’ private plate is also included with the car.
Supplied with V5C registration document and a MoT test certificate valid until March 2021. The Works GP is one of the best handling hatchbacks money can buy and certainly a future classic. It would be hard to find another one, especially in such good condition.Interested parties should note that contrary to the catalogue description, the MoT test certificate for this vehicle is valid until 23rd April 2020.       "