Mini is returning the to the FIA rally circuit with its new WRC racer, based on the Mini Countryman crossover vehicle. The car will be prepared by veteran campaigner Prodrive, winner of six WRC titles, and driven by Brit Kris Meeke. Mini WRC will participate in six of 13 rounds of the 2011 championship, with full participation in 2012.
The force is strong with Mini when it comes to rallying, as the original actual-Mini car gained worldwide fame after winning the Rally Monte Carlo not just once but on an embarrassingly frequent basis.
The Mini WRC will be powered by a 1.6-liter turbodiesel engine, paired an Xtrac six-speed gearbox, and an all-wheel drive system, the first for the brand. The engine is no ordinary diesel, but a custom engine developed by the mighty BMW Motorsport division.
Prodrive will produce customer versions on order for independent teams, or if you just want to scare the bejeesus out of your neighborhood.
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