2006 John Cooper Works, GP1 #629

YEAR: 2006
MODEL: MINI John Cooper Works GP1 (R53) #629
NICKNAME: George
ENGINE: 1.6L Inline Four-Cylinder Supercharged
SOHC 16-valve
CURB WEIGHT: 2,469 LBS.
TOP SPEED: 149 MPH
PRICE WHEN NEW: $31,150
VIN: #YB72145 #629 of 2,000
NUMBER BUILT: 2,000
BUILD DATE: 2006
COLOR: Thunder Blue Metallic
OWNERS: Michael Chaffin (Since March 2017)
LOCATION: Little Rock, Arkansas
NICKNAME: George

The 2006 MINI John Cooper Works GP1 is a limited-production, high-performance variant of the MINI Cooper S, designed to deliver an exhilarating driving experience on both the road and the track. With its track-focused enhancements and distinctive styling, the GP1 pays homage to the brand’s racing heritage while offering exclusive features for enthusiasts.
Michael's story: The car was purchased new from Cincinnati MINI on October 26, 2006, by Ron Rogers of Lexington, Kentucky. Ron used the vehicle for the weekend, nice weather, fun car, and for occasional track use. All modifications were completed during Ron’s ownership. He was a true car guy and has had some nice examples in his stable.

Michael purchased the car from Ron in March 2017 when it had 21,076 miles. Seven years later, It now has 25,678 miles. Michael has used it as a sunny day, weekend B road driver. Michael has tracked it twice at Hallett Motor Racing Circuit just outside of Tulsa, Oklahoma, a track perfect for MINI’s! It’s been to MINIS In The Ozarks twice and countless drives on the scenic B road byways of Central and Northwest Arkansas.

Michael has owned 9 modern MINIs spanning all three generations, including the latest GP3. The MINI GP1 is by far his favorite. It’s hard to top the heritage, drivability, and looks of the GP1. It speaks to him MINI more than any other car of the BMW generation. Unlike the latest F series cars, the R53 and specifically the GP is a driver’s car, one that demands your attention, especially when engaged in more spirited driving. Michael smiles even when he is just thinking about driving it.