Following on from our initial exclusive reports on a planned lightweight S…
And the official preview unveiling at Misano in Italy last October (see here: www.mini2.com/article326.html) it seems MINI have been listening to feedback, and working on the finishing touches (for example, the car’s interior which was not even available to preview at Misano) of the Works GP Tuning limited edition MINI Cooper S.
From the rumours we’ve been hearing, the good news is that weight is down, and power is up. Power output apparently has settled at around 230 bhp, but more interesting is the fact that at least on major component, the huge clamshell bonnet, is due to be constructed using lightweight aluminium, and other panels still could be changed from standard specification to trim off some of the bulk.
Insider reports we’ve been heard since Misano hint that many aspects of the car have been tweaked, fettled and finished, and the version due to go on show at this years Geneva motor show will, hopefully, address many of the concerns raised by those who’ve been following the story since the rumours of this car first began more than a year ago on MINI2. Time will tell, but we’re optimistic.
It’s not all about power, but it helps…
The John Cooper Works GP Tuning MINI Cooper S is being touted as the current generations last big fling. A lighter, faster Cooper S at a competitive price that will see the first edition new MINI, with it’s effervescent and charming supercharged engine, get a suitable send off.
But the one question this has given rise to again and again with MINI enthusiasts has been, “I like it, but what about the next generation S works?”. So enough pondering, MINI2 has gathered information from numerous sources and here’s a little taster of what’s to come for you.
Continue reading Exclusive: Next Generation John Cooper Works Cooper S
MINI Cooper S Auto gets tuned on
The John Cooper Works engine tuning kit has been a great success since it was launched in 2003. Demand in the UK has seen one in nine Cooper S hatch owners opting for the upgrade. From this month, the tuning kit is now available for MINI Cooper S’s with automatic transmission.
The JCW kit will push the auto-shifting Cooper S to 203bhp at 6,450 rpm with an impressive 0-62 mph in 7.3 seconds; an increase of 33bhp over the standard MINI Cooper S. Offered as an aftermarket kit from all 157 MINI UK dealerships, the cost is £2,999 (excl. fitting).
The Aisin six-speed transmission in a MINI Cooper S auto was developed to maintain the MINI’s traditional zesty drive. The close gear ratio settings ensure sharp gear changes and a dynamic driving experience that complements the sporty character of the MINI Cooper S. The great drive is further enhanced by the high level of standard equipment including Steptronic paddles on the steering wheel, limited slip differential and Adaptive Transmission Control (AGS). AGS allows the transmission to adapt over time to fit with the driver’s individual driving style.
More official information released.
MINI in Germany have published details of the MINI Cooper S with John Cooper Works GP Tuning Kit.
Official figures released this morning reveal a power output of 160 kw (218 metric HP / 214.5 international HP) and weight reduction of approximately 40 kg (88 lbs)
Continue reading John Cooper Works GP Tuning Kit: Power and Weight Details
Looks like BMW made a little blunder..
On the afternoon of Sunday 23rd October, this message was posted on the MINI2 forums, with images from the BMW Press Website showing sketches of a MINI labeled “John Cooper Works GP Tuning Kit”.
Much furore and speculation followed, with people wondering what this was, if was genuine, if it was old or new, why does it have an “old” registration plate, where’s the wiper blades…. In short, what is it?!
Continue reading John Cooper Works GP Tuning Kit: Light Weight Cooper S
It’s been a pretty solid rumour for a while, now BMW are starting to talk…
Tucked away in the last paragraph of a press release about the forthcoming MINI United event from BMW in Munich, is official confirmation that a ltd. edition MINI will be unveiled at the event.
Of course, MINI2 will be there to see it and will report back in close detail everything we see, which will be a nice conclusion to the much maligned “rumours” MINI2 started almost a year ago about a ltd. edition Light Weight Cooper S.
Continue reading Official: “Sporty” Special Edition Set for Milano
Could the Cat Almost be Out of the Bag?
MINI2 has been reporting for some time on the future release of a special, limited edition, light weight Cooper S. Now, MINI2 has officially been given the strongest indication yet that this car will be produced.
Behind the dramatic unveiling of the Frankfurt Concept car, MINI have officially told MINI2 that they are indeed in talks with Bertone in Italy about producing just such a vehicle. The project, if it should happen, will be limited in numbers, but is expected to be available to major global MINI markets.
Continue reading Official: MINI & Bertone “In Talks” Over Light Weight Cooper S
MINI UK Announce factory JCW Cooper S Details.
From October, the hatches on the Oxford production line will be a little hotter than before. For the first time, the 210bhp John Cooper Works (JCW) enigne tuning kit will be available as a factory fit option when ordering your MINI Cooper S in either hatch or convertible form. The cost of proud ownership of the most powerful and quickest official MINI on the road will be an extra £3,600 (inc. VAT).
Continue reading Oxford MINI gets the full "Works"
After breaking the news this January, MINI2 adds a little more water to the rumours mill.
In January MINI2 broke the news that MINI are planning to release a light weight ltd edition MINI Cooper S, in a bid to help the 1st generation MINI flagship go out with a real bang. We’ve recently acquired a few more sneak details of what might be in store, and really, if you think you could be tempted, then hens teeth might be easier to acquire than one of these little beasts once an official announcement is made (we have no idea when this might be).
Continue reading More Limited Edition Light Weight Cooper S Rumours
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