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MINI to launch revised Cooper S Works in Paris

Stronger, Better, Faster MINI Works is the Ultimate Hot Hatch

When MINI decided that it would launch the all-new convertible in 2005, company officials figured the timing was right to usher in a set of revisions for the standard hatchback model. The entire lineup, including the One, One D (unavailable in North America) Cooper, and Cooper S models each received updates featuring increased power, minor exterior and interior styling modifications, as well a revised specifications list. With the award-winning MINI formula well-preserved, the update seemed to be a closed case, but for the wildest of the MINI

The 2005 Cooper S, with its optional dealer-installed Works Package, might be a late arrival, but it packs a stronger 210 horsepower punch. (Photo: MINI U.S.A.)

family, the S Works.

Although the evidence may make MINI appear to suffer from amnesia, the delay on the new Works model can be traced to the John Cooper Works Garage, developer of the tuning kit. Of course theres a valid reason behind the postponement. With a reputation such as the

The meanest of MINIs, this one can hit 60 mph in 6.5 seconds before topping out at 143 mph. (Photo: MINI U.S.A.)

Works Garage, founded in MINI racing and rallying decades ago, time was needed to create and then perfect new components for the next generation tuning kit.

Working with the recently revised production models, the Works engineers adapted their techniques to the more powerful Cooper S motor. The kit now includes a supercharger capable of higher engine speeds, a modified cylinder head, a new free-flowing air-filter with auxiliary air valves, more

A simple, free-flowing air-cleaner is one of the new components for the 05 Works kit. (Photo: MINI U.S.A.)

powerful fuel injectors, revised mapping for the engines ECU and a sportier stainless steel exhaust system. MINI claims that fuel consumption is hardly affected from the previous model, which stands at 27 mpg.

The gain in output from these new components amounts to 210 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque, which is a 40 horsepower gain over the recently upgraded 170 horsepower stock Cooper S. Compared to the older Cooper S Works, the new model sports 10 additional horses, and the net gain from the old package to the new one amounts to 3 horsepower. In any sense,

The new Works package can be installed with spanners, a tool-box and your own grimy hands, or alternatively it can be dealer-prepped in 10 hours, the choice is yours. (Photo: MINI U.S.A.)

the ability to extract 210 horsepower from the petite 1.6 liter SOHC inline-four is very impressive.

Improved power ratings help the Cooper S Works achieve a zero to 60 mph time of 6.5 seconds, improved from last years 6.6 second time. Incidentally, the cars top speed has been upped to 143 mph, a slight improvement over the 200 hp model which ran out of steam at 140 mph. Improved gear ratios featured with this years makeover to the Cooper S six-speed transmission, make for quicker in-gear acceleration. Specifically, 50 to 75 mph acceleration takes only 5.4 seconds in fourth gear.

To go along with the new engine components, the Works

Carbon fiber trim adds a sporty look to the well-built and unapologetically retro interior. (Photo: MINI U.S.A.)

garage will also be offering a series of high-performance accessories to improve the cars on-road dynamics. New struts with sport springs lower the car by 0.4 inches and increase the Cooper S cornering abilities, while fan-shaped 18-inch alloy wheels wrapped in high-performance rubber provide additional grip. Towards the years end, the Works garage will introduce an upgraded brake package consisting of larger ventilated discs with red-painted calipers.

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