This project took four years.
Mini Coopers have a go-kart feel, and are fun to drive. What makes a Mini even better? What about a V8 under your hood and rear-wheel drive configuration?
The Vini’s engine is powered by the BMW S65 4.0-liter V8 motor. It produces 414 horsepower (309 Kilowatts) and can be found in the F80 generation . It is not an easy task to install a V-shaped engine longitudinally and its DCT in a chassis for a transverse four pot mill.
The bulkhead and floor had to be reinforced and reworked in order to accommodate the new arrangement. The engine and rear differential are now mounted on modified Subaru Impreza STI subframes. They are all supported and mediated using Powerflex polyurethane bushes. McPherson struts can be secured in custom towers.
These modifications didn’t alter the Mini Cooper’s exterior design. The exceptions were wide fender flares, and an alteration to the emblem, which now reads Vini.
You can see the cabin in the gallery. After the engine swap, the V8-powered short-wheelbase hatchback weighs in at 1,300 kg (2,866 lb).
The Vini is a collaboration between members of UK’s Performance Automotive Aftermarket Association. It includes ED Motorsport and Litchfield Motors as well as Tilton Engineering, Bilstein UK and Bilstein UK.
Powerflex will be showcasing the Vini at 2021 Goodwood Festival of Speed, which takes place from July 8-11th, 2021.