Two types of Mini for the 2018 Dakar Rally

From 2012 to 2015, Mini was victorious in the car category of every Dakar Rally. Then, ignoring the received wisdom that asserted all-wheel drive would be necessary for success, Peugeot won in 2016 and 2017 using the rear-wheel drive 2008 DKR and 3008 DKR.

Acknowledging the French brand's accomplishments, Mini and its partner X-raid have drastically changed tack for the 2018 event.

Their revised strategy involves the new rear-wheel drive Mini John Cooper Works Buggy. Three entries are planned, driven by Mikko Hirvonen, Bryce Menzies and Yazeed Al-Rajhi.

Mini John Cooper Works Buggy 2018 Front SideMini John Cooper Works Buggy 2018 Rear Side

Built around a tubular steel frame, this outlandish vehicle features carbon fibre reinforced plastic and Kevlar body panels. Power comes from a 3.0 litre, six-cylinder diesel engine which produces 335 bhp (250 kW / 340 PS) with up to 800 Nm (590 lb/ft) of torque.

The all-wheel drive Mini John Cooper Works Rally hasn't been abandoned though, because four examples are once again due to compete. Boris Garafulic, Jakub Przygonski, Joan “Nani” Roma and Orlando Terranova will do the driving.

Mini John Cooper Works Rally 2018 SideMini John Cooper Works Rally 2018 Front Side

The 2018 Dakar Rally begins in Lima, Peru on the 6th of January.

Related posts:
Peugeot upgrades the 3008DKR to Maxi spec
2017 Mini John Cooper Works Rally revealed

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