How can you tell if its a kit or an original/stock cooper works?

[Rookie]

Hi

I'm getting interested in purchasing a Mini Cooper Works dated 07 or newer. Viewing the price tags on the 2nd hands, i'm also considering getting it new.

My question is, if I search for a 2nd, how can I really tell if the works is an original/stock cooper works (with 208/211bhp) or if it was a cooper s, but modified with a works kit (hence with less bhp)

I'm not a guru on autos, even less on minis, but i'm liking this car...
any tiny detail will help
thanks

[MINIAC]

Digits 4 through 6 of VIN will tell you whether it's a John Cooper Works or Cooper S model ...

FAQ: How do I decode the VIN on a MINI?

[Rookie]

Quote: Originally Posted by MINIAC (original)

Digits 4 through 6 of VIN will tell you whether it's a John Cooper Works or Cooper S model ...

FAQ: How do I decode the VIN on a MINI?

gee thanks!
good to know
gonna read all those faqs

[mel deabreu]

The Cooper S with the kit will have a plate on the engine with the kit number on. The factory works doesn't have this.

Mine is number 749

[Rookie]

Quote: Originally Posted by mel deabreu (original)

The Cooper S with the kit will have a plate on the engine with the kit number on. The factory works doesn't have this.

Mine is number 749

can't they remove the plate? (to deceive the buyer)

btw why is it some factory cooper works have 197 bhp, and others have 208 and 211?

is the difference in mark model, or year maybe?

thanks again

[MINIAC]

Quote: Originally Posted by Rookie (original)

why is it some factory cooper works have 197 bhp, and others have 208 and 211?

is the difference in mark model, or year maybe?

FAQ: What JCW Tuning Kits and Factory Models were available?

[Rookie]

Quote: Originally Posted by MINIAC (original)

FAQ: What JCW Tuning Kits and Factory Models were available?

oops
still havent arrived till that faq

thanks again