When the Mini John Cooper Works GP was officially announced back in late 2012, even hardened Mini enthusiasts had to take a second look at the numbers.

1,598cc, turbocharged, 215bhp @ 6,000rpm, 206ft/lb of torque, 0-60mph in 6.1 seconds and 150mph! Even a standard Cooper S is a fast and feisty little car, but the GP2 promised something all together more serious.

Apart from the inevitable graphics and the aero kit (which reduced drag by 6%), it benefitted from a radical programme of upgrades including new adjustable ride-height coil-over suspension (with inverted dampers at the front) providing increased camber and reduced front toe-in for greater agility, an all-new braking system featuring six-piston calipers and 330mm front discs, GP-specific and super-sticky track day tyres and reconfigured stability control functions including a more aggressive Electronic Differential Lock Control.

There were no rear seats, but who cares? The new Works GP had all the makings of a new 'hero' and...