Most Expensive MINI Ever to Hit U.S. Shores

Introduced last year, the MINI WC50, short for World Championship 50, is a limited edition model built by the official MINI powerhouse, John Cooper Works. The car features a unique Connaught green paint job and is fitted with exclusive equipment.

Only 250 units were programmed initially, but the BMW-owned company decided to double that figure as there were too many requests. According to motoringfile.com, MINI USA immediately contacted dealers to see if they're interested in the car and, since the response was positive, 50 MINIs WC50 will be imported into the USA.

Exclusivity comes at a price though. Initial estimates were around USD 50,000, but MINI USA decided to offer the hand-built MINI at USD 39,600. Add the USD 700 shipping fee and the total is USD 40,300. Even if you're willing to spend that kind of cash on a MINI, it may be hard to get one unless you're on a list or you have expressed interest in the car through a dealer.

The Mini WC50 is a tribute to both the brand's 1959 birth and John Cooper's first F1 title, which happened in the same year. The car is hand-built at the John Cooper Works factory in Oxford, UK, and features a blown 1.6 liter engine developing 208 horsepower, a track-oriented suspension and unique trim throughout the car.

The special edition includes 17-inch black alloys, additional driving lights, white bonnet stripes, 3-spoke sport steering wheel, carbon fiber bonnet scoop, carbon fiber rear diffuser, mirror caps and interior trim, edition number plate and many others. Definitely one for the collectors.