FYI - The R53 Cooper S also came with an optional John Cooper Works (JCW) package that includes:
- Supercharger upgrade to 200hp (same hp as a base 986)
- JCW suspension (shocks, springs, sway bars) that is stiffer than the M030 for the Boxster
- JCW exhaust
- JCW big front brakes (same size as standard on the Gen II R56 Cooper S)
This model of Cooper S is very fast and handles very well. Its a huge upgrade to a stock R53. Now, I'm not saying that the Mini is faster or better handling than the base 986 because its not; but on the street with drivers of different skill levels, it could give a base 986 a run for its money. I say all of this with confidence because I own both cars.
In fact, for direct comparison, here are my lap times (min:sec) at the Streets of Willow race track;
- Mini Cooper S JCW: 1:36
- 986 stock: 1:34
- 986 BSX: 1:28
The Mini and the 986 stock both ran Kumho Ectsa XS tires. The 986 BSX has the full Spec race suspension + R-comp Nitto NT-01's.
Pic's of my Cooper S JCW at Streets (you'll also note that its Danger Yellow!)
