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Mini-Cooper 3-door-2022-1024-01
MINI Cooper
MINI
aka {{{aka}}}
Production 2000–present
Class {{{Class}}}
Body Style 3-door hatchback
5-door hatchback
2-door convertible
Length {{{Length}}}
Width {{{Width}}}
Height {{{Height}}}
Wheelbase {{{Wheelbase}}}
Weight {{{Weight}}}
Transmission {{{Transmission}}}
Engine Petrol:

1.2 L B38A12 turbo I3 (One)

1.5 L B38A15 turbo I3 (Cooper)

2.0 L B48A20 turbo I4 (Cooper S/JCW)

Diesel:

1.5 L B37C15 turbo I3 (One D, Cooper D)

2.0 L B47D20 turbo I4 (Cooper SD)
Power {{{Power}}}
Similar {{{Similar}}}
Designer Stefan Göppel


The Mini Hatch, stylised as MINI Hatch (or MINI Hardtop in the U.S.), also sold as Mini Cooper, Mini One, or simply called the (BMW) Mini, are a family of retro-styled two-door supermini hatchback and convertible; and (from 2014) a longer, subcompact 4/5-door hatchback. They were introduced in early 2000 by German automaker BMW under the 'Mini' brand. The second generation was launched in 2006 and the third, adding a longer 4/5-door hatchback, in 2014. A two-door convertible version was added in 2004, followed by its second generation in 2008.

BMW unveiled their Mini hatch concept at the 1997 Frankfurt International Motor Show, when the Mini marque was still part of the Rover Group, owned by BMW. The styling of the concept-car, intended to replace the original Mini, was well received by the public and further developed. The new Mini (Hatch) was launched by BMW in 2001, one year after their sale of the Rover Group in March 2000, and the classic Mini's discontinuation that same year. It was the first model of what has grown to be a prolific Mini range.

See Autopedia's comprehensive BMW MINI Cooper Review.

Recent Changes[]

  • For 2011, The Cooper S, Cooper JCW and Cooper Convertible are getting a mid-cycle facelift to bring it into line with the design language of the newly released Mini Countryman. [1]

Cooper S

Cooper JCW

Cooper Cabriolet

  • At the 2009 Geneva Motor Show, MINI unveiled the John Cooper Works Convertible. Power for the sprightly icon comes from a 1.6-liter turbo four with 211 hp and 192 lb-ft of torque. UK prices start at £23,470 OTR.
  • 2009 sees the introduction of the second-generation Mini Cooper Cabriolet. The ragtop will start at $24,550.[2]

Cosmetically, there is little that has changed about this new BMW MINI Cooper since it was introduced in 2002. Certain features and optional stylings have been offered, however, and this is true for 2006 as well. This year, the BMW Cooper is available in a special edition John Cooper Works GP version, boosting the engine output to 214hp and adding such items as a limited slip differential and electronic stability control.

The 2007 model is three inches longer than the 2006 model. However, according to CarsDirect.com, the 2007 has 2 inches less rear leg room (29 vs 31 in) and one square foot less luggage space when the rear seats are folded down (24 vs 25 sq ft).

According to Automotive.com, the 2007 "S" model with the turbocharger has 4 more horsepower and 15 more foot pounds of torque than the 2006 "S" model with a supercharger. The 2007 "S" model gets 16% better city gas mileage (29 vs 25 MPG). Those factoids appear to support the contention that switching from supercharger to turbocharger was done to improve engine efficiency. However, MINI "maniacs" will miss the delightful scream of the supercharger and have to endure the hesitation provided by turbo lag.

Styles and Major Options[]

The BMW MINI Cooper is available in either a 2-door hatchback or a convertible. While both are available in Base and S versions, only the hatchback is available in the new John Cooper Works GP edition, which incorporates more features, a stronger engine, and a sportier ride. There are numerous styling and badging differences between the other two models. Perhaps the most obvious is that the Cooper S has a distinctive hood scoop cut into the bonnet (which improves airflow over the top mounted intercooler), and it also has twin exhausts. The base BMW Cooper has more chrome parts than the BMW MINI One, which isn't sold in the US, and has a single exhaust. Here are some of the differences in the trims:

BMW MINI Cooper

  • Sport suspension
  • 15" silver alloy wheels
  • Leatherette bucket seats
  • Front air conditioning
  • 6-speaker AM/FM/CD audio system
  • Power locks, windows, mirrors

BMW MINI Cooper S Adds to or replaces base features with:

  • 16" silver alloy wheels
  • Leatherette sports seats
  • Rear wing spoiler
  • Body colored grille with chrome accents

John Cooper Works GP Edition

  • Limited slip differential
  • Electronic stability control
  • 18" painted alloy wheels
  • Driver/front passenger heated seats
  • Cruise control
  • Trip computer
  • Rocker panel extensions

Pricing[]

Today's actual prices for the BMW MINI Cooper can be found at CarsDirect.

Cooper Trims

Base Hatchback

Base Convertible

S Hatchback

S Convertible

GP Kit

MSRP

$17,450

$21,950

$20,900

$25,400

30,600

Invoice

$15,787

$19,837

$18,892

$22,942

$27,622

Gas Mileage[]

As seen on the FuelEconomy.gov website, the City/Highway MPG averages are as follows:

Trim

Base Hatchback
manual

Base Hatchback
auto

Base Convertible
manual

Base Convertible
auto

S Hatchback
manual

S Hatchback
auto

S Convertible
manual

S Convertible
automatic

S JCWorks GP Kit
manual

MPG

28/36

26/34

27/35

26/33

25/32

23/32

25/32

23/32

22/30

Reliability[]

Automotive Information Systems reports that the BMW MINI Cooper models have experienced minimal problems over time. The most recent model for which reliability data is available, the 2004 Cooper, received an overall green rating from the organization.

  • RECALL ALERT: On October 7, 2008, MINI issued a recall alert affecting 560 MY2009 MINI and MINI Clubman John Cooper Works models fitted with 16 inch diameter front brake discs due to an abnormally quick fade lifespan under conditions of intense brake usage. MINI dealers will inspect the front brake discs and pads and, if necessary, replace them free of charge. BMW has also set up a hotline for owners at 1-866-275-6464.[3]

Safety[]

In safety tests carried out by the NHTSA, the BMW MINI Cooper and BMW MINI Cooper S both performed well. For front-impact, rollover, and front side-impact tests, the Cooper received 4-Star ratings. ABS and driveline traction control are standard on S models, and the special John Cooper Works GP model also comes with a limited slip differential and electronic stability control.

Some of the standard safety features found on the BMW Cooper include:

Photos[]

See CarsDirect.com for more pictures.

Cooper S (3-door)

Cooper S (5-door)

Colors[]

Colors will vary by trim, and a complete list is viewable at CarsDirect.com. Some of the available choices include:

Exterior

  • Astro Black Metallic
  • Chili Red
  • Hyper Blue Metallic
  • Pepper White
  • Purple Haze Metallic
  • Royal Gray Metallic
  • Thunder Blue Metallic

Interior

  • Black
  • Cordoba Beige
  • Lapis Blue
  • Tartan Red/Black

Main Competitors[]


European Competitors

Hybrid Models[]

There are currently no hybrid models of the BMW MINI Cooper in production.

Unique Attributes[]

The MINI has a similar wheelbase and track width to the Porsche Cayman, yet it's 30 inches shorter and weighs 200 lbs less. It may look like a grocery getter but it drives like a sports car. It's often described as having "go kart like" handling. Road and Track wrote, "Its compact, curve-hugging chassis and supercharged engine conspire to deliver one of the most entertaining driving experiences around. Opt for the now factory-installed John Cooper Works (JCW) option package... and the Mini's fun factor goes through the roof. "

Resale Values[]

According to Kelley Blue Book, "the BMW MINI Cooper and MINI Cooper S are holding their values well, with an estimated residual value of 67 percent at 24 months and 57 percent at 48 months."

Criticisms[]

  • "When it comes to bumpy roads, though, the BMW Mini and the road surface must agree to disagree, and often it's not a polite conversation." - The Car Connection
  • "Drivers taller than six feet can fit comfortably into the BMW MINI, but it is still a bit cramped inside and the back seat is, really, a briefcase shelf." - Kelley Blue Book
  • "The rear seats are simply too cramped if the driver and front passenger are much taller than 5 1/2 feet." - Cars.com
  • "If you don't live near a MINI dealer, servicing the car may pose a problem, and in areas where demand is still high, dealer markup is thriving." - Kelley Blue Book
  • "Every panel changed, but who would know?" - Wheels Magazine

Dr. Alex Moulton, designer of the suspension system for the original classic Mini, is reported to have said of the new BMW MINI, in an interview with MiniWorld magazine ―"It’s enormous — the original Mini was the best packaged car of all time — this is an example of how not to do it… it’s huge on the outside and weighs the same as an Austin Maxi. The crash protection has been taken too far. I mean, what do you want, an armoured car? It is an irrelevance in so far as it has no part in the BMC Mini story."

Many classic Mini enthusiasts are sharply critical of the new BMW MINI, citing the fact that it is two feet longer, a foot wider and almost twice the weight of the classic car — yet it has less rear leg room and less luggage space. Undoubtedly much of this is to do with modern crash protection requirements and the desire to incorporate features such as air conditioning, a supercharged engine with modern emissions controls and a higher level of front-seat comfort than the classic Mini was capable of. This opinion is far from universal and other classic Mini enthusiasts have embraced the modern BMW MINI as a natural evolution of the original concept with many of them owning both kinds of car.

Some BMW MINI convertible owners criticise the poor rear visibility in the convertible. With the roof up the wide areas of cloth down the sides of the car block visibility to the rear quarters and the lack of washer/wiper on the small rear window — combined with the tendency of all BMW MINIs to accumulate dirt on the back end — effectively eliminates all rear visibility. Even with the roof down, the large roll-protection bars above the back seats and the bunched up cloth of the folded roof tends to block a significant fraction of rearward visibility. In an attempt to counter this problem when reversing the car, the BMW MINI convertible comes with rear-mounted proximity sensors as standard equipment (these are available as an option on the hardtop BMW MINI).

Third generation (F55/56/57; 2013)[]

The third generation Mini was unveiled by BMW in November 2013, with sales starting in the first half of 2014. The new car is 98 mm longer, 44 mm wider, and 7 mm taller than the outgoing model, with a 28 mm longer wheelbase and increases in track width of +42 mm (front) and +34 mm (rear). The increase in size results in a larger interior and a boot volume increase to 211 litres.

Six all-new engines are offered for this Mini, four petrol and two diesels: two models of a 1.2 litre three-cylinder petrol with either 75 PS or 102 PS, a 1.5 litre 3-cylinder petrol with 136 PS, (BMW B38 engine), a 2.0 litre four-cylinder petrol (BMW B48 engine) that produces 192 PS for the Cooper S, and a 1.5 litre 3-cylinder diesel (BMW B37 engine) in two levels of power output: 95 PS and 116 PS (Cooper D), and a 2.0 litre turbo-diesel inline-four (BMW B47 engine) that produces 170 PS (Cooper SD). These engines are mated with a choice of either a 6-speed manual, a 6-speed automatic, or a 6-speed sports automatic gearbox.

MINI has also released an all-new model called the MINI 5-door (known as the 4-door in US, model code F55). It is marketed as a 5-door version of the new third generation Hatch. The base MINI 5-door is 6 in (152 mm) longer and 190 lb (86.2 kg) heavier than the 3-door MINI Hatch models, with similar performance characteristics and greater interior and cargo space.

The 3-door Mini with an automatic transmission will reach 0–97 km/h (0–60 mph) in 7.3 seconds for the 1.5L 3-cylinder petrol model and in 6.4 seconds with the 2.0L 4-cylinder petrol engine.

In 2018, the Life Cycle Impulse (LCI), the 6-speed Steptronic torque-converter were replaced by a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission in all models but the Cooper SD and JCW, with the latter now fitted with an 8-speed Steptronic auto. These changes allow for improved efficiency and better emissions test results in the WLTP cycle, as well as marginally improved performance.

A battery-electric version, the Mini Electric (aka Cooper SE), was launched in 2020.

In 2022, the second Life Cycle Impulse (LCI) was revealed. The model receives an updated front and rear, and an updated interior.

Design[]

The shape is slightly more rounded than the one it replaces, in order both to improve the car's aerodynamic efficiency and to enhance pedestrian protection in the event of accidents. It has a much longer overhang and higher bonnet. This latest model rides on BMW's all new UKL platform that underpins the new BMW 2 Series Active Tourer.

Criticisms of the design of the F56 MINI Cooper have focused upon the extruded and complex design of the front bumper in Cooper S and JCW variants, as well as the larger front overhang and oversized tail lamps. Further criticism has also centred upon the overstyled nature of the exterior design.

The Mini is also the first in its segment to offer LED headlamps for its main and dipped beams as an option.

With its larger exterior dimensions, the all-new Mini provides more space for its four occupants and luggage, with enhanced shoulder space and larger footwells. Boot volume has been increased by more than 30% to 211 litres. When using only 2 seats in the car, boot capacity increases up to 731 litres.

The dashboard retains its instrument layout, but adds a new instrument binnacle on the steering column for the speedometer, tachometer, and fuel gauge. The central instrument display now houses a four-line TFT display with the option to upgrade to an 8.8 inch screen for navigation and infotainment functions.

Mini John Cooper Works GP (2020)[]

The third generation of the Mini John Cooper Works GP first appeared as a concept car in the IAA Cars 2017 with a track ready race-track character. The stripped-out interior included a roll cage and only a pair of racing seats (back seats were absent) with five-point racing harnesses. Outside, both front and rear wheels were covered by prominent wings (especially in the rear). A unique rear spoiler and centerlock 19" wheels were other features of the track-focused hot hatch. In June 2019, a tweet was posted showing the Nürburgring time of 07:56:69 molded into the plastic trim of the dashboard.

The actual production model was revealed in November 2019, retaining some characteristics from the concept such as a very similar rear spoiler and wings (this time smaller in the rear). The wider track and wider wheels necessitated the wider wings. Other more extreme racing features (for a street car) like the centerlock wheels and five-point harnesses were removed, although the back seats were kept absent. The suspension is even stiffer and lower than a standard JCW and the turbocharger was redesigned for more boost pressure. The transmission is automatic only because there was no manual transmission available that could withstand the power and torque from the engine. The Nürburgring time on the dashboard was replaced by the individual production number (this same number appears on the front wings).

The 2.0 litre turbocharged engine outputs 225 kW (306 PS) and 450 N⋅m (332 lb⋅ft) of torque. The 0–100 km/h is 5.2 s and the top speed is 265 km/h (165 mph) (not cut off). As of release time, the third generation of the Mini JCW GP is the fastest and most powerful street car Mini has ever produced.

Production was limited to 3,000 units, with a MSRP of $44,900 (USD).

Second generation (R56/57; 2006)[]

BMW introduced an all-new, second generation of the Hardtop/Hatch Mini model in November 2006, on a re-engineered platform incorporating many stylistic and engineering changes. It uses the Prince engine, the architecture of which is shared with PSA Peugeot Citroën and is designed to be more cost-effective and fuel-efficient, and is manufactured at the BMW Hams Hall engine plant in Warwickshire, Great Britain. The engineering was done in the United Kingdom by BMW Group UK Engineering, in Munich, Germany at BMW Group headquarters, and by other third parties, BMW Group hired Italdesign Giugiaro (IDG) in Turin, to coordinate the engineering, including the development and validation of the body, structure and chassis of the new Mini. Key Production Associates from affected areas in the assembly process at Plant Oxford were seconded to IDG for the duration of the build to ensure a smooth integration of the new model back in Oxford.

Initially launched in the Cooper and Cooper S trim levels; the range was completed in 2007 with the Mk II Mini One. An economical version called the First was added in 2009. From April 2007 a diesel was available badged as the Cooper D, which was supplemented in 2010 by the lower powered One D and in January 2011 with a new 2.0 L diesel badged as the Cooper SD.

The second generation was again offered in Japan at Japanese BMW locations 24 February 2007, and it continued to be in compliance with Japanese Government dimension regulations which supported sales of both the hatchback and the convertible.

The second generation Convertible was unveiled at the Detroit Auto Show and the Geneva Motor Show as a 2009 model-year vehicle (first available for sale on 28 March 2009). The model has a device, marketed as the "Openometer", which records the number of minutes the vehicle has operated with its roof retracted.

Design[]

Though the Mk II has a familiar look, every panel on the new car was changed from the previous model. New pedestrian impact safety requirements lead to an overall length increase by 60 millimetres (2.4 in) and the bonnet raised, to create more space for the front end to yield in case of impact. Also, the indicators were moved up, integrated in the headlight units. The headlight units are now fixed inside the front quarter panels, rather than being integrated with the previous clamshell bonnet, so that they are no longer raised up with the opening bonnet. This was necessitated by United States law, requiring all essential lighting to henceforth be mounted to fixed, non-movable parts of a vehicle.

The car has a restyled grille and larger rear light clusters. The Cooper S retains the bonnet scoop in order to keep an association with the outgoing model – although the relocation of the intercooler to the front of the engine means that the scoop is now purely decorative. In addition, the Cooper S no longer has the battery located under the boot floor, instead being found in the more conventional location under the bonnet. The C-pillars are no longer encased in glass and have been shaped to improve aerodynamics and to reduce the tendency for dirt to accumulate on the back of the car. Much criticised for the lack of rear legroom, Mini added more space for rear passengers by creating sculpted cut-outs in the rear of the front seats. An engine start button replaces the conventional ignition key and, with the optional 'Comfort Access', the car may be unlocked with a button on the door handle when the key is brought close to the car.

Model range[]

The Mk II range was launched with the One, Cooper and Cooper S derivatives. In July 2009, a new budget version called Mini First was added. Similar to the One, but lower output 1.6 L engine 75 PS (55 kW) and no automatic option, it preempted the launch of the One Minimalism by including the Mini Minimalism technologies. The vehicle launched with a base MSRP of £10,950. In January 2010 the Mini One Minimalism was announced, which was available in two states of tune depending on the market: (75 PS (55 kW) and 98 PS (72 kW)). The model was marketed as a more environmentally friendly option with low 119 grams (4.2 oz) per kilometer carbon dioxide (CO2) helped by low resistance tyres and flush wheel trims, and included the Minimalism technologies previously excluded from the Mini One.

In spring 2011, a new diesel Mini Cooper SD was launched. With a new four-cylinder 2.0 L turbo diesel engine, it had an output of 145 PS (107 kW) and maximum torque of 305 N⋅m (225 lbf⋅ft) between 1,750 and 2,700 rpm.

Mini Coupé and Roadster (R58/59; 2011; 2012)[]

Main article: MINI Coupé

In 2011 and 2012 respectively, the Mini Mk II line-up was expanded with a coupé like the model first shown in 2009, as well as a roadster model. Both are strict two-seater models, which was a first for the Mini brand, derived from the Mini convertible. The roadster's soft-top is either manually or electrically operated, depending on market.

Mini John Cooper Works (2009–2014)[]

Loosely based on the John Cooper Works (JCW) Challenge car, these are essentially Cooper S vehicles with a higher-output engine; a low-back-pressure exhaust system; a stiffer sport suspension; 17-inch light alloy rims with low-profile, performance tyres; Brembo performance brakes; and BMW's dynamic stability control (DSC) and Dynamic Traction control system (DTC) with Electronic Differential Lock Control (EDLC) as standard equipment. All JCW models are only available with a specific Getrag 6-speed manual transmission, and come with distinctive "John Cooper Works" badging in place of the normal "Cooper S" badging. The JCW vehicles are also factory-built, which further distinguishes them from earlier Mk II Cooper S models with any of the available John Cooper Works accessories (engine and suspension upgrades, aerodynamics kit, etc.) that are dealer-installed. All JCW models achieve the same EPA fuel economy ratings as their Cooper S counterparts.

The engine is rated at 211 PS (155 kW; 208 hp) and 261 N⋅m (193 lb⋅ft); under heavy acceleration, the engine automatically boosts torque output to a peak of 279 N⋅m (206 lb⋅ft). These figures are achieved by reducing compression ratio to 10.0:1, and increasing boost from 0.9 bar (13 psi) to 1.3 bar (19 psi) when compared to the turbocharged engine used in the Cooper S. According to Mini, the JCW Hardtop will sprint to 97 km/h (60 mph) in 6.2 seconds, with the JCW Clubman clocking in at 6.5 seconds; both vehicles top out at 237 km/h (147 mph).

The JCW variants were unveiled in 2008 at the Geneva Auto Show, as 2009 model-year vehicles. Seven cars were entered into the 2011 24 Hours of Nürburgring, coming 4th in class and 34th overall. In 2012, team Partl Motorsport finished in 2nd place in its class with their endurance MINI, finishing in a strong 41st place overall.

The BMW MINI Rallycross Championship, a one-make series, was a support category for the British Rallycross Championship.[41

Mini John Cooper Works GP (2012–2014)[]

The Mini John Cooper Works GP is a limited-edition model run of 2000 units. The GP is a fast road and track focused performance edition, and a celebration before the new Mini variant arrives.

The GP features additional performance, with 218 PS (215 bhp; 160 kW) at 6000 rpm and 280 N⋅m (207 lbf⋅ft) of torque at 2000–5100 rpm from a larger turbo and engine internals, larger front brakes with 6-pot calipers developed by Brembo, coilover suspension developed by Mini and Bilstein, lightweight 17" x 7.5" wheels, semi-slick tyres developed by Kumho specifically for the GP, rear diffuser and carbon kevlar flat under-tray, carbon fiber rear spoiler, 'GP Mode' traction control system, weight saving by the removal of the rear seats and fitting of Recaro sports seats for driver and front passenger.

Styling features include specific vinyl stickers on the bonnet, roof, and door panels, GP badging on the boot lid. Interior includes a new gearknob, leather with red stitching, rear upper strut bar (non-structural) and GP badging on the dash.

All 2000 units were produced in the same specification, with the only option from new being an all-weather tyre, rather than the semi-slick tyre developed by Kumho. Left and right hand drives of this model exist.

Current Generation: (2002–present)[]

Mini Cooper S

The last cars to be made with the Tritec engine will be the "BMW MINI Cooper S Works GP", a lightweight, race-prepped John Cooper Works model. It will be produced as a limited-production run of 2000 cars in 2006, around 400 of those ear-marked for the US market. It has racing style front seats and no rear seats, reduced sound-deadening, optional air-conditioning and other refinements that reduce the overall weight by approximately 15%. Additionally, it will have enhanced brakes and suspension as well as 218 horsepower from the John Cooper Works engine modification package. In place of the rear seats will be additional body stiffening and below-floor storage areas.

BMW MINI will introduce a new version of the car for the 2007 model year, on a reengineered platform with many stylistic and engineering changes. This architecture is shared with PSA Peugeot Citroën and will be more flexible. Italdesign Giugiaro is reportedly handling the engineering.

The Tritec engine will be replaced by the so-called Prince engine, developed with Peugeot. An optional turbocharger will replace the supercharger in the Cooper S model.

Also, the bew MINI will have electric power steering replacing the conventional power steering system in the current MINI and it will also have improved rear suspension.

The BMW MINI Traveller concept vehicle will appear on a stretched wheelbase version of the BMW MINI — possibly in 2008 or 2009.

Origins[]

see Mini Classic for more details

The names Cooper and Cooper S echo the names used for the sportier version of the classic Mini which in turn come from the involvement of John Cooper and the Cooper Car Company. The Cooper heritage is further emphasized with the John Cooper Works (JCW) range of tuning options that are available with the MINI.

Technology[]

MINIandClassicMini

2003 MINI Cooper S and Mk III classic Mini.

The BMW MINI One, Cooper and Cooper S use a Brazilian-built Tritec engine while the MINI One/D uses a Toyota-built diesel engine. While the modern BMW MINI uses none of the engineering of the BMC original Mini, it does capture some of the spirit of the classic car. Like the original, it uses a transversely-mounted four-cylinder engine driving the front wheels. All four wheels are pushed to the corners of the body which is a 'two-box' or 'hot hatch' design. The styling of the car, like that of the Volkswagen New Beetle, is a retro design that is deliberately reminiscent of the original BMC Mini with contrasting roof colours, optional bonnet stripes, optional rally lights and with black trim around the wheel arches and rocker panels that mimic the wide wheel flares found on many BMC Classic Minis.

The BMW MINI One and BMW MINI Cooper are available with a continuously variable transmission or with a conventional Getrag five-speed manual transmission. The BMW Cooper S comes with a six-speed Getrag manual or (from the 2005 model year onwards) a fully automatic transmission with paddle shifters.

Technical innovations include an electrically driven power steering system that avoids taking power from the engine when accelerating out of corners, and equal length driveshafts to eliminate torque steer. The BMW MINI has a 'drive by wire' electronic throttle, electronic brakeforce distribution, and electronic stability control to improve control and handling in adverse conditions. These innovations give the BMW MINI vastly better handling than any of its competitors.

Adding a supercharger to the BMW Cooper S model required that the battery be relocated into the rear of the car — leaving no room for a spare tyre. Hence this model comes with run flat tires as standard.

Convertible[]

2003 and 2005 BMW MINI

A 2005 MINI Cooper S Convertible (Hot Orange/Black) and a 2003 MINI Cooper S (British Racing Green/White)

At the 'Salon International de l'Auto' (Geneva Motor Show) in 2004, BMW MINI introduced a cabriolet (convertible) model which was released in the 2005 model year and available in BMW One, Cooper and Cooper S versions.

The convertible roof is fully automatic — an unusual feature in such a small car — and can be opened partially to act as a sunroof whilst the car is driving at speed. The convertible model forsakes the rear hatch of the hardtop BMW MINI — replacing it with a drop down 'tailgate' design reminiscent of the BMC Classic Mini and incorporating similarly prominent external hinges. The convertible also adds two small power windows for the rear seat passengers which are retracted automatically as the roof opens. The roof is made from a heavy cloth with many layers of insulation; the rear window is of glass and has a heater/defroster but no washer or wiper.

As a joke, (and undoubtedly as a part of BMW MINI's viral marketing approach) purchasers of the BMW MINI convertible were asked to sign a 'contract' promising that they'd drive the car with the roof open at least 90% of the time. BMW MINI also set up a telephone hotline (in the USA: 1-888-DO NOT CLOSE) which one may call to report convertible owners who are driving with the roof up inappropriately. The automated system offers such helpful advice as how to administer a wedgie to the offender.

Cooper D[]

The MINI Cooper D is the diesel version of the Cooper released in 2007.

The engine comprises of a 1.6L PSA allianced engine with a stop/start function that stops the engine when not in use. It also has Brake Energy Regeneration that captures energy from braking.

The Cooper D is recognisable by the black painted wheels. It has the fuel economy of 3.83 L/100 km (74 mpg). The car also competed in the 2009 Global Green Challenge.

Worldwide[]

The BMW MINI is available in seven models across the world: the BMW MINI One D, the BMW MINI One, the BMW MINI One Convertible, the BMW MINI Cooper, the BMW MINI Cooper S, the BMW MINI Cooper Convertible and the BMW MINI Cooper S Convertible. In Portugal, the BMW MINI One is powered by a 1.4 l version of the Tritec engine but all other gasoline powered BMW MINIs use the 1.6 l version. Since 2004, a soft-top convertible option has been available across the entire range. The BMW MINI One/D has no visible exhaust pipes at all.

In some markets, such as Australia and the US, only the BMW MINI Cooper and Cooper S are sold because the BMW MINI One's engine was considered to deliver insufficient power to run an air conditioner - a necessary feature in those climates. However, the only difference between the engines in the 'One' and the 'Cooper' models is a software change within the engine control unit which is tuned for optimum fuel economy on the BMW MINI One and for a compromise between power and economy on the Cooper. Almost fifty percent of all BMW MINIs sold in Australia and about seventy percent of those sold in the US are the top-of-the-range BMW Cooper S model.

Design quirks and oddities[]

MINI at premiere of the italian job

MINI owners were invited to bring their cars to the world premiere of The Italian Job

The BMC CLASSIC MINI was featured in many movies, The BMW MINI was used in the 2003 remake of The Italian Job.

As with the BMC Classic Mini, the new BMW MINI has a widespread club and enthusiast following and strong after-market support for performance upgrades and styling enhancements. Such community support keeps the brand highly valued and shows BMW's decision to relaunch the BMW MINI as a successful business strategy.

A MINI Cooper Chilli was driven in the music video of The Veronicas song 4ever.

British comedian Jimmy Car downgraded into a MINI. His previous car was a Rover 75.

Awards[]

The BMW MINI Cooper/Cooper S won the North American Car of the Year award for 2003.

See also[]

BMW


Mini-car-under-the-lights iphone 640x960
MINI

The BMW Group


BMW | Rolls-Royce | MINI


Current: Cooper · Cooper S · Cooper D · Clubman · Countryman · Coupé

Historic: Cooper Classic

Concept: E EV · ACV30 Concept · Traveller Clubman Concept · Crossover Concept · Clubman Airstream Trailer Concept · Coupé Concept · Roadster Concept · Beachcomber Concept · Paceman Concept

Racing: Countryman WRC · ALL4 Racing Countryman


Frank Stephenson · British Leyland Motor Corporation · Rover Group


Sir Alec Issigonis Corporate website A Subsidiary of the BMW Group



External Links[]

News & References

Smallwikipedialogo.png This page uses some content from Wikipedia. The original article was at MINI Cooper. The list of authors can be seen in the page history. As with Autopedia, the text of Wikipedia is available under the GNU Free Documentation License.


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