AC Schnitzer Tricks Out the New MINI Cooper Coupé

As usual, it didn't take long for AC Schnitzer to release a slew of upgrades for one of the BMW Group's most recent creations, the new MINI Coupé.

While the German tuning firm is still working on the engine mods, its current offerings include several performance upgrades such as a limited slip differential with locking up to 75 percent for the Cooper S Coupé and a sports rear silencer with chromed tailpipe trim for both the Cooper S and the John Cooper Works Coupé.

There's also a high performance brake system with 4-piston fixed calipers and slotted discs, plus a height-adjustable racing suspension, a stiffer spring kit, an aluminium strut brace and rear antiroll bar for the Cooper Coupé.

All members of the MINI Coupe family can be fitted with AC Schnitzer's new 17-inch Mi 1 silver wheels or 18-inch Mi2 BiColor alloys, as well as a decal set for the exterior and gear knob with digital gear display, aluminium pedal set, foot rests, "Black Line" handbrake handle and velour foot mats for the interior.

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BAC Mono Track Racer Coming in Limited Numbers to the USA, Priced at $130,000

Weekend track enthusiasts with a taste for exclusive sports cars and pockets deep enough to afford their hobby, will be happy to learn that the BAC Mono single-seater racecar has arrived in the States.

Sector111 LLC, a California based company that specializes in aftermarket performance parts and service for the Lotus Elise and Exige and the Ariel Atom, has been named the exclusive U.S. importer of the British model.

"USA is a hugely important market and represents a significant percentage of our export volume," said BAC Director, Neill Briggs. "With their experience and extensive knowledge of the low volume sports car market, we are delighted to announce that Mono will be available through our partner Sector111," he added.

Sector111 said that it would be responsible for sales and service of the BAC Mono in the States, with plans to import around 12 cars for 2012, with pricing set at $130,000 a piece.

The Mono is powered by a mid-mounted naturally aspirated 2.3-liter Cosworth engine pushing out 280-horsepower to the rear wheels through a six-speed sequential transmission and a limited-slip differential. The single-seater model features a carbon-fiber body and weighs in at just 540 kg (1,190 lbs).

According to the British company, the Mono passes the 0 to 60mph [96km/h] yardstick just 2.8 seconds after takeoff, and the 100 mph (160km/h) mark after 6.7 seconds, while its top speed is 170 mph (274 km/h).

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