When BMW introduced their vision of the modern Mini way back in 2000, enthusiasts and more mainstream consumers swooned at the sight of the little box. Larger than the original due to modern safety needs, many purists were concerned that the essence of the original car would be missing. Would the new Mini be a driver’s car. They needn’t have worried.

I was somewhat embarrassed to say that I didn’t have the opportunity to drive a Cooper S until last year at the IMPA’s Test Days at Pocono Raceway. To say that I was smitten by the exit of the first turn wouldn’t be an understatement. Fast forward to 2008 and we are again at Pocono, this time with camera in tow and driving a Cooper S with the JCW package.

What can I say? Scott has put together yet another killer video and I have no control over my enthusiasm!

Video after the break
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Jim Kenzie has come a long way from the day he rolled an original Mini in corner 9 at Mosport during his first race. For the third year in a row, he has piloted a JCW MINI to a victory at Targa Newfoundland in the Open class. If they keep this up, Kenzie is going to get a Schumi complex!

Job well done guys!

MINI press release and pics after the break

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