Mini John Cooper Works convertible set for Geneva motor show

Here's math we actually like: Mini. Plus John Cooper Works performance. Plus convertible. Put away the graphing calculators. The answer is an even better driving experience for enthusiasts.

Mini is revealing the John Cooper Works convertible at the Geneva motor show next month, and it's being billed as the world's fastest premium small cabriolet. The top speed is said to be 146 mph, just two miles slower than the hatch version. Zero to 62 mph is accomplished in 6.9 seconds, nearly on par of with the fixed-roof's 6.5-second time.

The almost-nill sacrifice in performance is thanks to the same 1.6-liter, turbo engine found in the Mini S models and the Mini Challenge racer car. The unit is rated at 211 hp, which breaks down to 132 hp per liter. The Works cars get exclusive speedometers that run to 160 mph.

The alloy wheels measure 17 inches, the tires are run-flats, and the body is fitted with a Works aero kit. Braking comes from extra-large discs and updated Brembo calipers.

By Greg Migliore