With only 2000 examples built, they are certainly exclusive, especially when we consider that only 288 were ever brought over to the UK.

It’s no slouch either, with a 0-60 time of 6.1 seconds and a top speed of 150mph, the GP2 lapped the Nürburgring in 8 minutes 23 seconds, a full 19 seconds quicker than the previous GP1. Now that’s what we call progress!

Sporting the newer Prince N18 engine, this 1.6 litre turbocharged motor incorporates double VANOS for healthy levels of torque over the previous N14 lump. An updated turbocharger and engine internals bring the total power figure to a respectable 218bhp at 6,000rpm and 280 N⋅m of torque at 2000-5100 rpm.

This is a significant jump in power when we look at the standard Cooper S of the same year that delivered 181bhp, akin to its rivals from Ford and Peugeot.

Adjustable Coilover Suspension brings the front end 20mm lower to the tarmac and 15mm lower at the rear for a more aggressive angle of rake, this of course can be adjusted to taste with the included C spanner and toolkit.

A naturally short wheelbase means steering is a fingers and thumbs affair with small corrections going a long way, only when driving enthusiastically is a firmer grip encouraged to unleash full cornering potential.

The braking performance has been optimised thanks to 6-Pot Brembo brake calipers at the front with 330mm discs taken from the BMW 135i, a standard JCW has to make do with a more mundane but adequate 4-pot item.

The DSC (dynamic stability control) system’s proprietary ‘GP Mode’ offers a more driver focused experience. The electronic limited slip-differential provides delayed interference exclusively to the front calipers to help avoid understeer and a potentially embarrassing accident.

Supplied new in 2013 to the first owner by Cotswold Mini in Gloucester, this GP benefits from a full main dealer and independent specialist service history every 5,000 miles -testament to the fastidious ownership this example has enjoyed with absolutely thousands spent to ensure it performs as expected.

A new customer to us, Chris has entrusted us with the sale of his Mini GP purchased from Sytner in High Wycombe. Involved with professional endurance motorsport, Chris himself races a track-prepared R56 Mini Cooper S and wanted that same feeling of lightweight performance but with the creature comforts offered by a more hardcore roadcar.

Before handover to the new owner, the car will pass through our workshop for PDI, Oil and Filter Change, Brake Fluid and Coolant Change, Replace Roof and Door Decals, Replacement Interior Carpet Panel, Paint Correction, Replacement Front Floor Mats, final checks and new MOT.