Cooper S Works gets faster

09 September 2004

Performance-hungry Mini owners can now buy even more powerful tuning kits from John Cooper Works.

The updated BMW-approved kit for the supercharged Cooper S now provides 210bhp, which is 10bhp more than before and 47bhp more than a standard S.

The extra dose of power sees the 0-60mph time of the Cooper S Works cut from 6.7sec to 6.6sec. In-gear acceleration from 50mph to 75mph drops by 0.2sec to 5.4sec.

Top speed of the Works increases from 139mph to 143mph, which is 5mph faster than a standard Cooper S. Combined fuel economy slips from 33.6mpg to 32.8mpg, and a rise in emissions means the Works also moves up one company car tax band into the 27% slot.

Prices for the tuning kit remain frozen at £2999, although this does not include the necessary 10 hours' labour for fitting, which will likely set buyers back at least a further £750. Existing Cooper S Works owners can upgrade their 200bhp kits from £335 plus one hour's labour.

The tuning company is also offering new springs to lower the ride height of cars and sharpen cornering ability. Prices start at £495 for a Cooper S and £615 for a Cooper. A sports-brake system will be introduced early in 2005 along with a range of carbon-fibre spoilers, tailgate handles and door mirror covers.

Because the kits and parts are approved by BMW, warranties and the all-inclusive tlc servicing package are unaffected by the modifications.

John Cooper Works says it has no plans to introduce an approved tuning kit for the diesel Mini. Other aftermarket modifications are available, but fitting them will invalidate warranties and servicing packages.

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