The BMW Group has chosen the IAA Cars 2017 show in Frankfurt, Germany, to present the modern racing essence of a MINI - in the shape of the MINI John Cooper Works GP Concept. Inspired by the carmaker's legendary triumphs in the Monte-Carlo Rally exactly 50 years ago, this design study embodies undiluted dynamic flair and the ultimate in driving fun - on both the race track and the road. The concept car picks up the baton from the 2012 MINI John Cooper Works GP and 2006 MINI Cooper S with John Cooper Works GP Kit.

Produced in strictly limited numbers (2,000 examples each), these two models explored the outer limits of their performance capability at the time. "The MINI John Cooper Works GP Concept is all about the unfettered feeling of driving and levels of performance found in motor sport competition," says Peter Schwarzenbauer, Member of the Board of Management of BMW AG, responsible for MINI, Rolls-Royce and BMW Motorrad. "This is driving fun in its purest form."

The design of the MINI John Cooper Works GP Concept majors on purity and emotional richness. Significantly wider than the current MINI, the design study exudes dynamism and power. Large front and rear aprons, side skirts and a prominent roof spoiler create a confident appearance. The use of lightweight materials such as carbon fibre optimises the car's power-to-weight ratio. And evenly balanced weight distribution is a ticket to MINI's signature go-kart feeling.