The R53 Mini Cooper S Cup is the fastest single make saloon car class at Scottish Championship race meetings. Full slick and wet tyre options, a 1.6 litre super charged power unit and three way adjustable suspension provides drivers with a touring car experience, at a fraction of the budget.

The class launched in 2017 and has quickly gathered momentum with former Scottish and British Champions returning to race these cars around the undulating Knockhill Racing Circuit.

The speed and handling characteristics of these cars favour slightly more experienced drivers but with some coaching, an eager newcomer could also enjoy this championship. The ability to choose between slick and wet tyres – to suit the weather conditions – plus the choice of suspension settings provides mechanics and drivers with more of a set up challenge than the other Scottish single make series. This adds another dimension to this championship which rewards well rounded drivers.

The ethos around this series is to help develop any aspiring touring car driver, who want to progress his/her skills further in what is a very quick and capable racing car. The ability to run this spec car at other race circuits and series around the UK – such as British Mini Challenge – provides drivers with the chance to easily compete in other series and learn new circuits as well.

Find out more on SMRC’s website: https://www.smrc.co.uk/championships/

About the author

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Steve Burns

Steve is our Discipline Representative for Race.

He began marshalling in 1994 at the age of 16, joining his local Committee in 1996 and has been working in Motorsport organisation since 1999. He is currently Competitions Director for the Scottish Motor Racing Club and Senior Clerk of the Course at Knockhill Racing Circuit. As a licenced Race & Speed Clerk of the Course and Steward, Steve regularly officiates both in the UK and Internationally as a Race Director and Steward. He is Chairman of the Association of British Motor Racing Clubs and a member of the Motorsport UK Clerks and Stewards Advisory Group. Steve has also competed in both race and stage rally disciplines and holds a Grade A ARDS & BARS Instructor licence in addition to being licenced by Motorsport UK as a Driver Coach and Safeguarding Officer.

steve.burns@motorsport.scot