MINI JOHN COOPER WORKS
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BMW M135 xDrive
The M135 xDrive has a generous body size
MINI John Cooper Works
BMW M135 xDrive
MINI John Cooper Works
BMW M135 xDrive
This time, we’ll compare the sports grades of the MINI and BMW 1 Series. The MINI John Cooper Works is the model with the highest level of performance in the MINI lineup. Of the many body variations of the JCW, including the 3-door, convertible, Aceman, and Countryman, we’ll be looking at the 3-door model equipped with an internal combustion engine (ICE). The BMW M135 xDrive, on the other hand, is a sports model that boasts some of the best driving performance of the entry-level 1 Series hatchback.
The MINI Cooper 3-door and BMW 1 Series are both entry-level models from the BMW Group. Both feature iconic styling that makes a statement for the brand. In terms of size, the segment-leading M135 xDrive is 495mm longer in length and 175mm longer in wheelbase. The MINI’s compact body has the advantage of being easy to maneuver in urban areas.
MINI John Cooper Works
Body size = Length 3875mm x Width 1745mm x Height 1455mm
Wheelbase = 2495mm
Vehicle weight = 1350kg
Tire size = 215/45R17
BMW M135 xDrive
Body size = Length 4370mm x Width 1800mm x Height 1450mm
Wheelbase = 2670mm
Vehicle weight = 1570kg
Tire size = 225/45R18
Overwhelming the JCW in power and traction performance
MINI John Cooper Works
BMW M135 xDrive
MINI John Cooper Works
BMW M135 xDrive
The MINI John Cooper Works is equipped with a 2.0-liter inline-four-cylinder gasoline turbo with a maximum output of 231 PS and a maximum torque of 380 Nm. A BEV version is also available, which produces 258 PS, more powerful than the ICE version, and has a maximum range of 421 km. Meanwhile, the M135 xDrive combines a 2.0-liter inline-four-cylinder gasoline turbo with a maximum output of 300 PS and a maximum torque of 400 Nm with the “xDrive” system, and is all-wheel drive.
The MINI John Cooper Works weighs 210 kg less than the M135 xDrive, but the 69 PS power difference and the traction advantage of AWD make it a huge advantage, with the M135 xDrive accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in 1.3 seconds. Top speed is limited to 250 km/h for both models.
MINI John Cooper Works
Engine type = Inline 4-cylinder gasoline turbo
Displacement = 1998cc
Maximum output = 231PS/5000rpm
Maximum torque = 380Nm/1500-4000rpm
Transmission = 7-speed DCT
Drive system = FWD
Top speed = 250km/h
Acceleration from 0 to 100km/h = 6.1 seconds
BMW M135 xDrive
Engine type = Inline 4-cylinder gasoline turbo
Displacement = 1998cc
Maximum output = 300PS / 5750rpm
Maximum torque = 400Nm / 2000-4500rpm
Transmission = 7-speed DCT
Drive system = AWD
Top speed = 250km/h (limited)
0-100km/h acceleration = 4.8 seconds
Go-kart feeling or five-door practicality?
MINI John Cooper Works
BMW M135 xDrive
The cockpit, common to all new generation MINIs, is laid out around a large, circular 240mm diameter organic electroluminescent (EL) centre display. The dashboard also features textile-like materials common to MINIs. The M135 xDrive is equipped with the BMW Curved Display, which consists of a 10.25-inch information display and a 10.7-inch control display. The selector lever on the centre console has been made smaller, creating a cleaner interior space.
In terms of rear seat comfort, a 380L luggage compartment, practicality, and quality, the M135 xDrive, which is at the top of the segment, wins. Although there is a price difference of 1.78 million yen, if you are looking for family transportation and driving performance, the M135 xDrive is the one to go for.
However, the unique interior and exterior atmosphere of a MINI, and the agile “go-kart feeling” that can only be achieved with a short wheelbase, are appealing features that are hard to come by. To add practicality to this, let’s hope that a 5-door hatchback version will be added to the JCW lineup, although it is not currently on sale in the home country.
