AC Schnitzer is claiming its new Eagle model, based on the MINI John Cooper Works, is the fastest MINI ever built.
The Eagle sheds 80kg in weight over the standard JCW version of the MINI and ups the power to 260bhp. Weight saving is achieved by stripping out the interior and replacing the side glass with plastic windows.
Power is increased with tuning to the engine and turbocharger, as well as adding a lightweight sports exhaust. Along with this work, AC Schnitzer has added race suspension with height adjustment and 18-inch alloy wheels.
AC Schnitzer says the Eagle can now lap the Hockenheim race track in 1 minute 13 seconds to put it on a par with Caterhams and the KTM X-Bow.
The price of the AC Schnitzer Eagle comes in at €62,000 - or £55,000.
17 May: Ford owners with cars using the 1.6-litre EcoBoost engine can now get up to 34 extra horsepower from Superchips. The remap costs £445 including VAT and is covered by a 12-month, 30,000-mile warranty.
16 May: The Porsche Museum is participating in the Mille Miglia recreation from 17-20 May. A 550 Spyder, three 356 Speedsters and a 356 Coupé will tackle the course that runs from Brescia to Rome.
16 May: Four Toyota GT86s and one Lexus LFA will compete in the Nürburgring 24 Hours race this weekend. Gazoo Racing will campaign the LFA and two GT86s, painted in black, white and red. The team has already had two class wins at the circuit with the Lexus. [photo]