FYI: British rallycross driver Liam Doran has taken on an exhilarating journey blending classic cars with cutting-edge mechanics. Once renowned for his daring World Rally Championship (WRC) performances, Doran has turned his attention from the high-adrenaline climb of the Pike’s Peak to pursuing a creative venture in auto racing with his radically modified Mini Cooper.
Revolutionizing the Mini with V8 Power
Liam Doran, known for pushing the envelope, has reimagined the Classic Mini. His latest project involves incorporating a formidable Suzuki Hayabusa engine, transforming it into a spirited V8 powerhouse. This Mini’s facelift is not just cosmetic; it’s a deeply rooted mechanical metamorphosis that showcases Doran’s engineering prowess. The Radical Precision Engineering (RPE) 2.7-liter V8 Macroblock, which synergizes with Hayabusa cylinder heads and barrels, grants this Mini a roaring 420 horsepower, enhancing its performance considerably.
Unleashing the Beast: The RPE 2.7-Liter V8 Specs
This striking vehicle isn’t just about sleek aesthetics. The technical specifications of the RPE V8 setup stand as a testament to breathtaking innovation:
- Configuration: Flat plane crank
- Max Power: 431.3 horsepower
- Max Torque: 236.5 lb-ft
- Weight: 105 kg (231 lbs)
- Lubrication: Dry sump
This transformation shaves around 143 pounds off the Mini’s curb weight by eliminating extra components, achieving an impressive weight of just 1,146 pounds. With its power-to-weight ratio at just over 1:1, this mini monster is a force to be reckoned with, suggesting potential for even greater horsepower figures with turbocharging.
A Nod to Autograss Racing
Doran’s remarkable customization journey owes much to the influence of British auto glass racing—a motorsport harking back to the grassroots level, akin to America’s dirt and oval track races. Autograss racers are engineered for peak performance in dynamic, shift-intensive circuits. Within this world, Doran’s Mini aligns with the elite, competing against vehicles in an unrestricted, open-class format, where few rules limit creativity but ensure safety.
Crafting Future Classics
While his Mini steers clear of the ordinary collector’s showpiece, Liam Doran has masterfully bridged advanced racing concepts with the nostalgic allure of a Classic Mini. His venture exemplifies his relentless ambition to blend tradition with trailblazing innovation, creating a car that’s both a nod to history and a leap into automotive futurism.
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Donald Smith, Editor of Automotive.fyi
