Borla Exhaust Systems for '08 Cooper S Convertible

[tgalatis]

Hi all. I am new to this forum, having just purchased an '08 Cooper S convertible.
I am considering changing the air intake and exhaust systems. I am looking at the Borla Cat-Back Exhaust, Part No. 140261, or the quieter 140262. I am told that either fits a Cooper S, but I am also told that the frame on the convertible is different from the coupe on the Cooper S. Does anyone have any experience with this issue? The air intake system I am looking at is a JCW from Mini Outmotoring. Finally, I have heard that mini cooper s has a turbo charger from 2007 on, rather than a supercharger. Is this correct?
Thank you.
Ted G

[MINIAC]

The 1st Gen MCS hardtop (R53) was produced through November 2006 and the 1st Gen MCS Convertible (R52) was produced through July 2008. These models were supercharged.

The Borla part numbers you've listed are for 2nd Gen MCS models.

FAQ: How can I find out when my MINI was built?

[tgalatis]

My cooper s convertible was manufactured in July 2008, so I am assuming it has a supercharger. Rather strange is the fact that my hood opener is located on the passenger side, not the driver side - is that common?

[MINIAC]

Quote: Originally Posted by tgalatis (original)

My cooper s convertible was manufactured in July 2008, so I am assuming it has a supercharger.

Using the VIN Decoder as described in the FAQ will tell you whether it's a R52 (supercharged) or R57 (turbocharged) model.

Or you could pop the bonnet to verify your assumption that it has a supercharger

Or you could stomp the gas pedal and listen for the telltale supercharger whine

Quote:

Rather strange is the fact that my hood opener is located on the passenger side, not the driver side - is that common?

Not strange considering the car is made in England where they're right-hand drive

[tgalatis]

I ended up buying a Milltek cat-back exhaust, JCW Intake, Beru Ultra X plugs and 15% pully. Notice a little difference, but not much.