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Avenue of the Giants Weekend Run - Sat. March 23, 2024

Saturday will be a very full day of cruising from Novato up through the Avenue of the Giants and ending at Eel River Brewing in Fortuna. Sun...

New MINI WRC To Compete In Rally Portugal

A new MINI JCW WRC, called the "01B", is now set to get its first outing at the March 29-April 1, 2012 Rally Portugal. MINI and Prodrive modified over 100 technical details to deliver an even more powerful car.

There are new engine parts – such as the exhaust manifold and electrical water pump, a smaller fan belt, and a revised engine management system. Changes were also made to the cooling system, dampers, suspension and aerodynamics, the weight and centre of gravity. MINI worked with chassis partner Öhlins to improve the dampers. Weight reduction was achieved by use of a lithium-ion battery for the first time and modification of the carbon-fibre-reinforced rear spoiler. This has saved ten kilograms.

Noticeable changes include the new air duct on the front of the MINI WRC, a new bumper, and a squatter stance on gravel.

[Source: MINI Motorsport]