Re: Welcome JCW and a question
gromit said:
The availability of JCW conversion "S" models here in the USA has me jumping for joy but also puts me in a dilemma. If I got my "S" prior to the JCW package availability is it a retrofit item? Can I bring my 3 month old "S" to the dealer and say "upgrade please" or do I have to drive the car off the lot as a JCW car?
I'm sure the folks at JCW can answer this better than I, but from doing some rudimentary poking around at their website and checking out the upgrades/packages for sale there, I'm sure you can get a car retrofit if you want. Quoting directly from the page on the
JCW site for the UK Cooper conversion:
You may need converting
If you are buying, or indeed have already bought, the new MINI Cooper and would like to give it even better driver feel, throttle response and handling, then the John Cooper Works Conversion is for you - and it's here right now.
You will be converted
The John Cooper Works Conversion comprises a replacement high compression-ratio cylinder head - match-ported, polished and gas flowed, plus a new free-flow air filter system and all-new cat-back stainless steel rear exhaust system. Gas flow efficiency is optimised from entry to exit and this, combined with subtle changes within the electronic engine management system that improve the torque curve, ensures superb driveability across the full engine speed range. Every component is matched and balanced providing a worthwhile increase in power from 115ps up to 132ps, improving through the gears performance and top speed. All this is achieved with minimal degradation of fuel consumption. Above all, the car sounds and feels 'right', living up to the true legend of the Mini Cooper.
Simply come to see us...
Just bring your car down to our new engineering workshops and we will carry out the John Cooper Works Conversion for you. This includes the coveted side and rear chrome and enamel badging and that all-important engine bay plate with unique car conversion number.
...or see your local dealer
Alternatively, if you are unable to get your car to us or would prefer to use your local dealer, that's fine, the John Cooper Works conversion will be available from selected premium partners worldwide. They are fully conversant with the engineering work required and have all the specialist tools and expertise to complete the necessary work for you. However if your conversion is carried out at John Cooper Works, you will have the satisfaction of knowing that you have enjoyed the genuine Cooper experience and the kudos which will accompany your association with our legendary automotive racing organisation.
The Works Conversion is available now fully fitted for £2408.75 (inc. VAT) at John Cooper Works, or supplied to your local dealer for £2056.25 (inc. VAT) plus fitting cost (approx 6hrs labour).
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Perhaps I'll have to save a few bucks and maybe have this done to my S (which I don't even have yet) sometime in the spring/summer of 2003...
-Ricardo