WRX-Powered Mini Cooper Is A 250-HP Go Kart For The Road

Besides the engine, this includes the Subaru's transmission and front axles, which are now the Mini's rear axles. This, of course, resulted in the build being rear-heavy. Interestingly, this build's fuel tank sits where the original Mini engine would be: at the front.

The car also gets WRX seats, a custom dashboard that pays homage to the original Mini's dash, and a flat bottom steering wheel. Last but not least, it uses a dark blue, almost purple paint job and a set of black-colored 13-inch wheels. The wheels may look tiny on the modernMini Cooper Hardtopbut are huge on the 1961 Mini.

When driven, the WRX-powered Mini looked stable but quick. This is thanks to the front and rear suspension from the Mazda MX-5. Its EJ25 engine, meanwhile, is running a stock WRX turbo, and is rated at around 250 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque, which are amazing numbers considering that the build weighs around 2,028 pounds.

Other necessary modifications on this pint-sized bruiser include window ducts for the top-mounted intercooler, fans for airflow when sitting at a standstill, and LED headlamps, as well as a custom sunroof made from the original roof and a more modern R53 Mini. Steve also placed an insulated firewall and a glass barrier between the front cabin and the engine. Plus, it gets a radio and air-conditioning.

So is it any better thanHonda-powered Minis? Steve says that scary torque steer isn't present on this build. There's also no doubt this thing feels like a go-kart on steroids.