August 23, 2005 MINI has announced its most potent factory built car yet. From this month, the steroid-enhanced MINI Cooper S with John Cooper Works Tuning Kit is being built alongside MINI Cooper and MINI Cooper S models on the Oxford production line. Previously, the John Cooper Works Tuning Kit had been retro fitted by MINI Garages. Now, MINI buyers can order the hot-shot 154 kW 1.6-litre supercharged engine version (with 254 Nm of torque) direct from Oxford. A MINI Cooper S fitted with the tuning kit is capable of generating a top speed of 143mph and reaches 0-62mph in 6.6 seconds. The 'Works' features a modified cylinder head with higher compression, modified engine electronics and increased throughput injectors. The factory option will also include the following JCW products as standard: air filter system, 16" disc brakes and calipers, exhaust pipe finisher, front apron and tailgate badges, certificate of authenticity. A limited slip differential is also included in the cost.
Mike Cooper, managing director of John Cooper Works, has been heavily involved in the introduction of the kits at Plant Oxford. He said: "I'm pleased that the partnership with the new MINI has been such a success. The kits offered as a factory fit option shows how closely we work together and will provide us at John Cooper Works more time to develop further high performance products."
This is a comprehensive upgrade with bigger brake rotors and pistons, larger swept area and new compound brake pad linings. The callipers are finished in an attractive racing red.
The traditional highly-polished chrome double tailpipe is also included along with John Cooper Works badging front and rear.
The John Cooper Works Tuning Kit for the MINI Cooper S will continue to be available as a retrofit item through the MINI Garage network.