**Nürburg. **The bolide is based on a highly equipped MINI John Cooper Works with a 6-speed manual gearbox and an output of 231 hp / 170 kW with a maximum torque of 320 Nm.
With this special model, the private racing team from Nürburg is celebrating the best finish for a MINI in a 24-hour race in the brand’s 64-year history. The engine and many features of the special model are equal to the race car with the starting number #126 from Bulldog Racing, but the safety features enforced by the competition regulations are dispensed with in favour of everyday usability.
“Finishing in second place and achieving the first podium for MINI after a gruelling 24 hours was a great achievement. The moment we crossed the finish line, the idea of sharing this moment with our fans was born. Our biggest challenge in developing the Bulldog Racing Edition was to keep it as close as possible to our race car while making sure it is still road legal,” says Alexander Schabbach, Managing Director of Bulldog Racing.
With the use of various motorsport components, which can be combined and installed individually according to the customer’s preferences, the Bulldog Racing Edition creates real “racing feeling” for the road.
The core of the edition is the KW V3 suspension, adjustable in compression and rebound damping which, among other things, increases grip, improves turn-in behaviour and increases safety at the limit. The suspension setup is carried out individually for each vehicle by one of Bulldog Racing’s professional drivers on the Nürburgring Nordschleife. The 17-inch OZ HyperGT alloy wheels in combination with the Remus brand sports exhaust give each vehicle an unobtrusive yet unmistakable appearance. A point of honour: after good experiences with the racing tyres, Pirelli provides the tyres for the special model with P Zero Performance tyres in size 205/45R17. The Stern Performance Parts Clubsport set replaces the rear seat with a strut with fitting mesh and carpet. The resulting weight saving improves the performance of the car.
One of the visual highlights on the exterior is the large Bulldog Racing roof decor foil, which traditionally adorns every race car of the team. Inside, each Bulldog Racing edition comes with an individual badge identifying the car as a numbered limited edition and documenting the day the suspension was set up on the Nordschleife, as well as various other discreet features.
“In order to be able to cater to the widest possible range for individual desires, each car is customized according to the customer’s wishes and is therefore unique. Our special model shows what modifications we can make to the car. We are also pleased to be able to offer this service to customers with older MINIs of the current generation from 2014 onwards”, says Alexander Schabbach.
The Legacy of the Nürburgring 24-Hour Race
The Nürburgring 24-hour race is renowned as one of the toughest endurance events in the world. Spanning over 25 kilometers per lap, the Nordschleife challenges drivers and vehicles with its demanding corners, elevation changes, and unpredictable weather. Bulldog Racing's participation and success in this race not only demonstrate their technical expertise but also cement their reputation among motorsport enthusiasts. The Bulldog Racing Edition pays homage to this legacy, offering customers a tangible connection to the thrill and prestige of the event.
Exclusive Features of the Bulldog Racing Edition
This special edition MINI John Cooper Works stands out with a host of exclusive features. Customers can expect bespoke paint finishes, unique badging, and interior details that commemorate the Nürburgring victory. Performance upgrades may include enhanced suspension, braking systems, and lightweight components, all tailored for spirited driving. Each car undergoes a meticulous setup process on the Nordschleife, ensuring it delivers exceptional handling and responsiveness both on the track and the road.
Customer Experience: From Order to Delivery
Ordering a Bulldog Racing Edition is a personalized journey. After selecting their desired specifications, customers are kept informed throughout the build process. The highlight is the final setup and adjustment on the Nürburgring, where the car is fine-tuned by Bulldog Racing's expert team. Upon delivery, owners receive a comprehensive handover, including documentation of their car's unique setup and a commemorative package that celebrates their connection to Bulldog Racing's motorsport success.
