engine conversation

[raaachelbx]

I am just wondering how much work it would be to convert a standard 1.6 cooper engine into a cooper S. I know I'd need the bonnet scoop/bonnet and bumpers, intercooler ect, I know it won't be cheap either but I'm just wondering if anybody knows how hard it would be?

Thanks guy's!

[woosey]

sell your car and buy an S would be the cheapest method..

[The Nun]

Yes, actually you would save money painting a Cooper S pink than the other way around.

[Cooper S Jon]

Quote: Originally Posted by woosey (original)

sell your car and buy an S would be the cheapest method..

^^^^ this..it's no even the same engine..

[mab01uk]

Here is parts listing from a Cooper to Cooper S project using secondhand parts (DIY so no labour costs) completed by a member of TotalMINI.com:
(Link to TM site is currently down due to their server problems)
totalMINI

Parts Required:

ENGINE
FULL SUPERCHARGER
6 SPEED GEAR BOX
ALTERNATOR
STARTER MOTOR
ENGINE LOOM
TWIN EXHAUST SYSTEM
2 DRIVE SHAFTS
ENGINE MOUNTS
EWS IGNITION BARREL & KEY
ENGINE MANAGEMENT
WATER RADIATOR & FAN
FUEL PUMP

everything brought.. approx £1500
everything sold.. £650
cost to make this Cooper an S.. £850

R53 Cooper S Engine Conversion: The Complete Checklist:
R53 Cooper S Engine Conversion: The Complete Checklist

These kind of conversions tend to be done by enthusiasts who enjoy the challenge of building their own unique MINI from parts and can then get a reasonable insurance quote at the end. The high labour costs also mean it is usually only done by experienced DIY home mechanic enthusiasts to be economically viable.

Such engine conversions are of course very common in the classic Mini world as a genuine early Mini Cooper S is now a very rare and expensive classic car...........but as said the modern R53 MINI Cooper S are fairly cheaply and widely available at present, so it makes less sense to do. This may change in future years as the usual attrition rate of performance cars makes the R53 Cooper S a much rarer 'future classic' and harder to find in good condition at a reasonable price.