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Section 1 - Sensational MINI - a Maxi Success
From the moment the MINI arrived in Australia in March last year, the MINI brand has been running hot.
This year, the results have been similarly spectacular, with the compact, feisty and eminently loveable cars capturing the hearts of more than 1,000 new owners to the end of August. For several months, the MINI Coopers reigned supreme as the top-selling four-cylinder Prestige vehicles in Australia, and still MINI leads the VFACTS Prestige segment as the top-selling European by a substantial margin.
Part of the reason is the exceptional "bang for your buck" the 120kW supercharged 1.6-litre MINI Cooper S provides. Priced at a remarkably affordable $39,900, it comes amazingly well equipped, underlining its position as a premium market sportscar, able to rival supposedly exotic machinery.
Australians wasted no time in striking up an intense love affair with the 120 kW supercharged MINI Cooper S, the high-flier notching up almost half all MINI brand sales - the largest share of sales in any of MINI's 70 world markets.
Standard equipment includes 16-inch alloy wheels, a six-speed manual gearbox; sportier suspension settings than the standard MINI Cooper, and of course the supercharged engine.
The MINI Cooper S races to 100 km/h in 7.4 seconds and has a top speed of 218 km/h.
But if the MINI Cooper S is not sufficiently exhilarating, a modification package, carried out only under strictly controlled conditions at a MINI Garage, can extend the performance window to a mammoth 200 BHP (147 kW) via the application of the John Cooper Works kit. This powerful kit had its Motor Show debut at the Sydney Motor Show 2003.
MINI brand was launched in Australia in March 2002. At present 23 MINI Garages retail the MINI Cooper family around Australia.
Priced from $32,650, the technology-rich MINI Cooper boasts an 85kW 1.6-litre multi-valve engine. Branded a cult car almost from launch the MINI Cooper scooped the prestigious UK CAR Magazine's Car of the Year award for 2001. MINI has also been awarded the 2003 North American Car of the Year Award
With charismatic styling and unique design features, combined with go-kart-like handling, big car safety and a comprehensive inventory of standard equipment, the MINI Cooper has added a new dimension to the Australian vehicle market.
A CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) version of the MINI Cooper with six driver selectable steps and steering wheel mounted controls is also available, providing two-pedal motoring with a sporty twist.
Developed by the BMW Group, the new MINI Cooper is the spiritual successor to the original MINI launched in 1959 and represents an evolution of its classic design with a refreshing modern interpretation.
As with its iconic predecessor, the new MINI Cooper and MINI Cooper S set a benchmark for dynamic safety, packaging and innovation.
The MINI's traditional 'wheel-at-each-corner' stability is enhanced by a portfolio of sophisticated driving aids already familiar to owners of the latest model BMWs.
Large disc brakes are supplemented by standard four-sensor ABS linked to CBC Cornering Brake Control and EBD Electronic Brake Force Distribution, giving the MINI outstanding stopping power under all road circumstances.
At the same time, the MINI's already outstanding handling is supported by switchable ASC+T traction control - optional on MINI Cooper and standard MINI Cooper S.
Section 2 - John Cooper Works Magic with MINI
Harder. Faster. Meaner.
Authentic flat-chat MINI Cooper tuning kits - direct from the men who devised the Mini race and rally champion of 40 years ago - are now available.
John Cooper Works is the spiritual home for MINI Coopers. So a performance boost from JCW is definitely in keeping with the long and proud Mini sporting heritage - no question.
The JCW MINI Cooper upgrade, available only from MINI Garages, boosts the standard Cooper's output to 93 kW, and the Cooper S to 147 kW (200 BHP).
Improved acceleration, swifter overtaking and higher max speed are the indisputable hallmarks of the John Cooper Works Team.
The result is JCW tuned cars, which form the new pinnacle of MINI Cooper and MINI Cooper S performance.
Fully compatible, developed, tested and durability checked and approved by MINI and BMW, the JCW Tuning Kit are no simple quick chip switch, but a complete cylinder head swap (including valve gear), as well as beefed up air box, exhaust system, and modified ECU.
Since the Tuning Kit meets internal BMW standards, it does not affect the standard MINI warranty.
Australians opt for the muscular MINI Cooper S in higher numbers than any other global market (in percentage terms), prompting MINI Australia to rush the JCW Tuning Kit to hard-core enthusiasts at top speed.
The kits have been on sale in the UK for a short time.
Fifty years of motor sport giant-killing experience, from Formula 1 to rallying, goes into every John Cooper Works MINI Cooper Tuning Kit.
It is a fitting tribute to the John Cooper legend. As the new MINI was readied for production in 2000, the 'father of the Mini Cooper' himself had a hand in the development of the Tuning Kits everyone knew must surely come.
The ultimate in MINI Cooper performance, there is no loss of refinement, merely enhanced, thrilling driving dynamics, go-kart handling and ultra-responsive steering.
The JCW Tuning Kit for the MINI Cooper provides 93 kW of power at 5,950 rpm and 155 Nm of torque at 4,700 rpm. Acceleration to 100 km/h takes just 8.9 seconds, while the 80 - 120 km/h in-gear time falls to 10.1 seconds. Top speed rises to 204 km/h.
For the already feisty MINI Cooper S, the JCW Tuning Kit delivers an extra 27 kW almost 1000 rpm higher up the rev range with 147 kW at 6,950 rpm, while mountainous torque, all 240 Nm of it, peaks at only 4,000 rpm.
The JCW Cooper S possesses slingshot acceleration, zooming to 100 km/h in just 6.7 seconds, while the 80 - 120 km/h overtaking blast is achieved in a lightning-fast 5.6 seconds in fourth gear. Top speed is an impressive 226 km/h.
The JCW Tuning Kits cost $6,000 for the MINI Cooper and $9,600 for the Cooper S and include a certificate of authenticity. Each engine conversion carries a consecutively numbered badge.
For homologation reasons the kits are sold as one unit and not by individual components.
John Cooper Works is an independent partner with BMW AG in the provision of performance components. The JCW Tuning Kit components have satisfied BMW AG's strict durability and reliability requirements as well as undergone hot and cold weather testing.
JCW Tuning Kits in Detail
The John Cooper Works Tuning Kit is a thoroughly engineered package of performance enhancement designed to boost the MINI's grin per km quotient even higher.
Each JCW component is an integral part of the whole.
Matched and balanced, together they combine to deliver the thrilling performance and handling that hard-core MINI Cooper drivers expect, together with responsible fuel consumption, emissions and noise levels.
The JCW MINI Cooper Tuning Kit consists of a machined cylinder head with higher compression, modified ECU software as well as performance-oriented air filter and rear silencer.
The MINI Cooper S kit includes a new, more powerful supercharger and a modified cylinder head with better port flow. The ECU software is matched to suit the engine's increased performance.
A special twin sports rear silencer with low back pressure completes the picture.
From the outside, the JCW-enhanced MINIs are only modestly identified via a 'Works' badge for the rear door and side grille vents in the front guards.
Under the bonnet, the JCW cars are more easily identified thanks to silver painted engine covers and consecutively numbered engine badges.
A certificate of authenticity is presented to each owner.
MINI Garages in metropolitan areas are the sole installers of the JCW Tuning Kit.
Additionally, the kit is provided only as a complete package, to comply with homologation requirements.
The installation of the JCW Tuning Kit for the MINI Cooper takes about five hours while the MINI Cooper S is longer, at nine hours, reflecting the additional work to replace the supercharger.
Service intervals and warranty details are unchanged from the standard cars.
The kits in detail
MINI Cooper:
New cylinder head including valve train and gaskets
Sport- Air Filter System
Modified ECU
JCW sports rear silencer
JCW badges (back door & side grilles)
Silver painted engine cover with JCW badge
JCW engine badge consecutively numbered
Kit cost: $6,000
MINI Cooper S:
New, high-flow ported cylinder head including valve train and gaskets
High power spark plugs
Modified ECU
JCW sports rear silencer
Modified supercharger with coated rotors
JCW badges (back door & front bumper)
Silver painted engine cover with JCW badge
JCW engine badge consecutively numbered
Kit cost: $9,600
JCW Technical Information
| |
MINI Cooper |
|
MINI Cooper S |
|
| |
Tuned by JCW |
Standard |
Tuned by JCW |
Standard |
| Engine power |
93 kW @
5,750 rpm
|
85 kW @
6,000 rpm
|
147 kW @ 6,950 rpm |
120 kW @ 6,000 rpm |
| Engine torque |
155 Nm @ 4,750 rpm |
149 Nm @ 4,500 rpm |
240 Nm @ 4,000 rpm |
210 Nm @ 4,000 rpm |
Acceleration
(0-100 Km/h)
|
8.9 sec |
9.2 sec |
6.7 sec |
7.4 sec |
Elasticity
(80-120 Km/h)
|
10.1 sec |
10.5 sec |
5.6 sec |
6.7 sec |
| Max Speed |
204 Km/h |
201 Km/h |
226 Km/h |
218 Km/h |
John Cooper Legend
By the time John Cooper began developing the early Minis into race and rally stars, he had a stack of Formula 1 Grands Prix and Constructor's World Championships' trophies in the cabinet at his East Sussex garage.
The Cooper Car Company began life in the late 1940s. John Cooper built highly competitive racing cars for sale, and a very early customer for the Cooper 500 was none other than Stirling Moss.
Five-time World Champion Juan Manuel Fangio drove the very first front-engined Formula 2 Cooper racing car. But by the late 1950s, Cooper switched to rear-engine design, successfully out-pacing the icon factory teams of Ferrari, Maserati and BRM, who retained front-engine layouts.
Stirling Moss drove the first rear-engined racing car to win a world championship race in 1958. Jack Brabham won the first of two titles in the F1 Constructor's World Championship for Cooper the very next season. John Cooper devised a go-faster Austin Se7en 'Mini' early in the car's development.
After much testing, Cooper's Minis started winning and the factory adopted the Cooper modifications, helping it to numerous motorsports successes, including Bathurst in 1966 in the hands of Bob Holden and Rauno Aaltonen.
The Mini Cooper's most memorable victories were in the 1964, 1965 and 1967 Monte Carlo rallies, while victory on the road in 1966 was controversially denied over a contentious headlamp infringement.
More than 150,000 classic Mini Coopers were built between 1962 and 1971. Through the 1970s and 1980s John Cooper single-handedly kept the Cooper brand name alive. He produced numerous tuning kits for Mini enthusiasts across the world, from reworked cylinder heads to lightweight bolt-on components.
In 1990, Rover resurrected the Mini Cooper name. Overwhelming demand for Coopers helped keep the classic Mini alive into 2000, and John Cooper continued to develop his specials independently.
Sir John Cooper died in 2000, but had been involved in the development of the new MINI Cooper and the JCW Tuning Kits, providing a tangible link from to the glory days of the Cooper Works Team.
Now, as then, the JCW Tuning kits represent the pinnacle of specialist enhancement, with the added backing of full factory approval.
In 2003, John's son Mike runs the JCW business. He is the president of more than 30 Mini clubs worldwide and remains committed to the continued development of the MINI Cooper.
Section 3 - MINI for 2004 in Detail
MINI Australia has recently added extra specification to the standard equipment list for both the MINI Cooper and the Cooper S models.
Injecting even more Pure Excitement to MINI motoring comes a swag of additional features at no extra cost.
Further enhancing their sporty appeal, all MINI Coopers gain larger 16-inch alloy wheels, sports seats, illuminated vanity mirrors and driver and front passenger reading lights as standard, with prices remaining unchanged at $32,650 for the five-speed manual MINI Cooper.
Drivers will appreciate these additional features every time they drive their MINI Coopers. For instance, the sports seats offer extra comfort and support both around town and around racetracks.
MINI drivers selecting the seamless and sporty CVT transmission gain steering wheel-mounted change paddles for switching between the six pre-determined ratios when in manual mode.
The addition of the paddles adds just $100 to the CVT option (now $2300).
The 120 kW supercharged MINI Cooper S, which has accounted for almost half of the approximately 2,600 MINI Coopers sold in Australia since launch in March 2002, also benefits from the feature upgrade.
The $39,900 MINI Cooper S now comes with cruise control and multi-function steering wheel as standard.
Buttons to activate cruise control and the radio/CD are fitted to the multi-function steering wheel for safer operation while exploiting the engine's zesty performance. The leather-wrapped wheel is now perforated and also features thumb rests on the inside of the rim.
The MINI Cooper S standard fitment becomes the alloy wheel now becomes the 16-inch 'X-lite' alloy rims, previously available as a no cost option.
The illuminated vanity mirrors and front reading lights added to the MINI Cooper are also included in the upgrade for Cooper S models.
New useful and exciting features are also added to the comprehensive MINI options list, guaranteed to delight customers.
These are an extremely powerful eight-speaker harman kardon Hi-Fi that brings concert hall audio to the MINI's compact yet comfortable interior, and an automatic rain sensor.
The harman kardon Hi-Fi, priced at $930, gives MINI buyers a system that ensures a significantly improved reproduction of bass sounds. The higher output provides a higher maximum sound level free of distortion, and sound is optimised at every seat position. The system includes a digital amplifier, coaxial and two-way loudspeakers. The amplifier uses a digital sound processing (DSP) system that splits up the music into individual signals, ensuring optimal equalisation.
The automatic rain sensor features an optical (infra red) control which checks and assesses the degree of moisture on the windscreen. The sensor then varies wiper frequency, adjusting it to current weather conditions. In addition, a new anti-dazzle function has been incorporated into the interior mirror, which decreases glare from vehicles following behind. The rain sensor and interior mirror with automatic anti-dazzle function is priced at $300.
The MINI Cooper colour range has also recently been expanded with the addition of Solid Gold metallic paint at a cost of $680.
All MINI Coopers boasts a very high level of standard equipment, including critical safety items such as six airbags, Tyre Defect Indicator and ABS with Cornering Brake Control and Electronic Brakeforce Distribution.
Comfort is also a priority, so air conditioning with micro filter, electric windows, leather steering wheel, trip computer, six-speaker CD stereo system and remote controlled central locking are also all standard.
Safety
The MINI Cooper S is the only car in its class to be fitted with run-flat tyres offering optimum active safety in the event of a puncture and sparing the driver the trouble, and danger, of changing a wheel on the spot.
Tyre wall reinforcements and heat-proof rubber compounds prevent the tyre walls from rubbing together when deflated, or the tyre from jumping off the rim, and the driver can continue for 150 km at up to 80 km/h. The tyre defect indicator warns the driver of any loss of pressure via a warning light on the speedometer.
MINI Cooper S offers a high standard of passive safety. Front and side "intelligent" airbags inflate in accordance with the severity of an accident and interact precisely with the pyrotechnical belt latch tensioners and belt force limiters. Side airbags as standard in the seat backrests and the standard Advanced Head Protection System (AHPS 2) ensure a high standard of occupant safety in a collision from the side. With the tubular structure of the head airbags extending from the front to the rear roof pillars, both front and rear occupants are equally well protected.
MINI Cooper S Technical
At the "heart" of the MINI Cooper S is a compact, transverse, four-cylinder engine, as used in the MINI Cooper, but with the addition of a mechanically driven supercharger and intercooler that boosts power to 120kW at 6,000 rpm.
Modifications to the crankshaft, pistons, valves, radiator and the engine management system also contribute to the car's extra 35kW over the standard MINI Cooper.
Running to a maximum pressure of 0.8 bar, the supercharger delivers instant power, with the toothed belt-driven compressor suffering none of the lag suffered by many turbocharged cars.
The supercharger also endows the torquey 16-valve engine with an impressively "beefy" torque curve, with 80 per cent of its 210 Nm output available between 2,500 and 6,500 rpm.
The drive-by-wire throttle technology featured on the MINI Cooper ensures the Cooper S is extremely reactive, utilising an electric motor to operate the throttle butterfly instead of a conventional cable.
The exhaust system has also been tailored specifically to the Cooper S emitting a deep, muscular sound through its twin chrome-plated centrally mounted tailpipes, reflecting the car's superior performance.
With its PLUS sports suspension and low profile run-flat tyres, the MINI Cooper S is tailored even more directly to the requirements of the dedicated driver, offering go-kart like handling on winding country roads combined with high-speed stability on freeways.
Reinforced McPherson spring struts with a stiffer front anti-roll bar provide outstanding stability without compromising refinement.
Directional stability is further guaranteed, thanks to identical length drive shafts providing symmetrical feedback during cornering, acceleration and braking.
Supplementing the ABS, Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD) and Cornering Brake Control (CBC) systems that are standard on the MINI Cooper, the Cooper S is fitted as standard with Automatic Stability Control with Traction Control (ASC + T).
ASC + T ensures that the extra power to the front wheels is conveyed safely to the road at all times. The system can be deactivated.
Using the ABS sensors to detect any wheel slippage, the system automatically cuts power to any spinning wheel until it grips again. It also works under deceleration on a slippery surface if a wheel approaches lock-up due to engine braking. In this instance power is gently fed to that wheel to get it rolling again and so control is regained.
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) is available as an option and is an even more advanced system. It maintains cornering stability at all times, not just under braking, adjusting the attitude of the car through automatic brake applications to individual wheels.
Cornering Brake Control (CBC) tempers the natural tendency for a car to become unstable at the rear if the brakes are applied heavily while cornering. The system recognises that the car is cornering and feeds more braking force to the outside front wheel and counteracts potential oversteer. Additionally, more braking force can be fed to the rear brakes slowing the car as fast as possible with maximum stability.
The addition of ASC + T and the optional DSC places the new MINI Cooper S as the safest, small driver's car on the market.
The standard wheels are 16-inch X-lite light-alloy rims with 195/55 R 16 tyres, while17-inch S-spoke wheels with 205/45 tyres are available as an option.
MINI Cooper S differentiation
From first sight, the Cooper S distinguishes itself as a very special MINI. The letter "S", resembling a series of bends in the road, proudly boasted by the car on the side grille and at the rear.
The air intake scoop on the engine compartment lid not only accentuates the car's athletic appearance, but also serves to cool the flow of air between the supercharger and the engine.
The integrated honeycomb grille in the front spoiler, side-sills finished in black, wider wheel arches and the roof spoiler all give the MINI Cooper S an athletic touch. The roof spoiler was developed to increase downforce on the rear axle to a new standard in the interest of even better directional stability and driving behaviour.
Like the crossbars in the radiator grille, the grab handle on the rear lid comes in body colour.
In all, the MINI Cooper S is available in eight exterior colours, two of which are exclusive: Electric Blue metallic and Dark Silver metallic.
The chrome-plated tank filler flap, the two side-grilles also chrome-plated and with an integrated "S" logo, the white direction indicators at the side, are further characteristic features of this high-performance MINI.
The special identity of the Cooper S extends to its highly equipped and sporting interior.
A stainless steel driver's footrest is fitted, there are aluminium doorsill strips bearing the "MINI Cooper S" logo, while the surfaces of the instrument panel and the interior doorframes are finished in a unique alloy-look material.
The covers and upholstery on the sports seats offering excellent side support are also exclusive to the Cooper S. The standard cloth/leather upholstery is available in Panther Black or Lapis Blue. Optional Gravity leather is also available in the same colours.
MINI Cooper in Detail
An advanced 1.6-litre multi-valve four-cylinder engine powers the MINI Cooper. It produces 85 kW of power and 149 Nm of torque, matched to a five-speed manual transmission.
Ventilated front disc brakes combined with ABS control, sports suspension, electro-hydraulic power assisted steering and 16 x 6.5 inch alloy wheels with run-flat, low profile tyres, ensure the new MINI Cooper builds upon the MINI's legendary handling, with braking to match.
The MINI also incorporates many industry 'firsts' for a car of its size and type, including an electronically-controlled E-gas throttle system and a standard low tyre inflation warning system.
Australian MINI Coopers have chrome exterior trim on the front and rear bumpers as standard, with the roof and mirrors in a contrasting paint finish to the main exterior colour.
Standard interior equipment includes six airbags (including side and head airbags), remote central locking, air conditioning, electric front windows and door mirrors, an in-dash CD player with six speakers, leather steering wheel, programmed rear wash/wipe with automatic operation in reverse gear, three cup holders and a service interval indicator.
The high quality exterior appearance of the MINI Cooper is carried inside, with a special silver finish on many interior surfaces, while the cloth-upholstered seats include a rear seat with 50/50 split folding to enhance luggage capacity.
A wide range of optional equipment allows MINI Cooper owners to enhance the sporting appeal and comfort of their cars.
Optional equipment on the MINI Cooper includes an electric sunroof, cruise control, an anti-theft alarm system, climate control, Xenon headlights and satellite navigation system.
Section 4 The MINI Interior
The MINI's interior is as unique and unmistakable as its exterior. The almost upright windscreen and the high window line give drivers the feeling that they are sitting in a somewhat different vehicle.
Until 1968 a prominent central speedometer was a characteristic design feature of the original MINI. This unmistakable element has been incorporated in the new MINI, this time in Australian specification with a central tachometer and the speedometer placed above the steering column. The central instrument cluster also includes fuel and engine temperature gauges as well as other functions such as the tyre puncture indicator.
The speedometer rests on the steering column, directly in the driver's line of vision. If you order your MINI with the optional navigation system featuring a 16:9 display, the tachometer also moves up to the steering column, which is adjustable for height, where it stands out as the second instrument next to the speedometer.
The centre console is just as distinctive and typical of the MINI. Bordered on each side by aluminium-look bars extending to the floor, it houses the standard in-dash CD player and the heating and air conditioning controls. The front seats are ergonomically designed and feature integrated side airbags. A unique memory function ensures that the driver's seat returns to its original position after tilting to allow access to rear seat passengers. The rear seats offer ample space for two, with armrests integrated in the side linings. The rear-seat backrest is split 50:50 and folds forward as standard, enlarging the luggage compartment from 150 litres to a maximum of 670 litres.
Both the MINI Cooper and the MINI Cooper S are lavishly and comprehensively equipped for a vehicle of their size. Standard equipment includes remote central locking, air conditioning, electric front windows and door mirrors, an in-dash CD player with stacker preparation, leather steering wheel, programmed rear wash/wipe with automatic operation in reverse gear, a digital clock, an illuminated and air-conditioned glove box, three cup holders, a service interval indicator, height-adjustable head restraints on all four seats, height adjustable driver's seat and front footwell lamps.
Section 5 MINI Technical Features
The structure of the new millennium MINI sets new safety standards for a vehicle of its size and price in the 21st century.
Using the most advanced development methods, such as virtual crash simulation, the MINI's engineers have succeeded in giving the car structure a standard of body stiffness 2-3 times greater than other models of its size. Together with the highly advanced and precise suspension, this is one of the key factors for the go-kart-like driving feeling offering the driver an essential driving experience.
Developed to the high standards of the BMW Group, the level of engineering of the MINI's chassis and suspension is uncompromising in every respect.
For example, the multi-arm rear axle is unique to the MINI, giving the rear wheels optimum kinematics, together with the greatest possible luggage space. The McPherson strut front axle is also highly space efficient.
Equal length front drive shafts - normally found only on large front-wheel-drive cars - neutralise front-wheel-drive 'tugging' when accelerating and braking.
Large disc brakes (vented at the front) are supplemented by standard four-sensor ABS with CBC Cornering Brake Control and EBD Electronic Brake Force Distribution, giving the MINI optimum brake power. ASC+T traction control, which assists the driver at the limits of tyre adhesion, is standard on Cooper S models and optional on MINI Cooper.
MINI sets safety standards
Uncompromising safety was given top priority in developing the MINI Cooper.
A safety concept reflecting the absolute state of the art and setting new standards in the compact car segment was one of the highlights in the specifications for the MINI. This was implemented in full accordance with the BMW Group's strict quality and production standard.
Combined with the latest braking and stability technology developed by the BMW Group, the MINI gives its driver the best possible opportunity to avoid potentially hazardous situations.
Active safety
The MINI comes as standard with disc brakes on all four wheels, with the front discs vented for extra efficiency. The disc dimensions are 276 x 22 mm at the front and 259 x 10 mm at the rear. The brake system in diagonal twin-circuit arrangement comes as standard with four-sensor ABS, electronic brake force distribution (EBD) and Cornering Brake Control (CBC).
EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution)
EBD controls the distribution of hydraulic brake forces between the front and rear wheels, thus allowing optimum use also of the rear wheel brakes. Whenever the rear axle of the car is heavily loaded, there is roughly as much weight when applying the brakes on the rear wheels as on the front wheels. This allows the rear wheels to safely build up a high level of brake force, optimising the car's braking behaviour.
Conversely, when the car is carrying only a small load, the rear wheels reach their friction limit and start to lose grip much earlier than the front wheels. This is where the EBD system cuts in automatically above a medium level of brake pressure, long before ABS interacts. The system remains in use at all times and cannot be deactivated by the driver.
CBC Cornering Brake Control
CBC Cornering Brake Control, which optimises rear-wheel brake performance without affecting tracking stability, is also standard on MINI Cooper and Cooper S models.
Whenever the driver applies the brakes, for example in a series of fast bends, the car may start to swerve and subsequently oversteer even under low brake pressure. Applying a special computer simulation model, CBC is able to determine lateral acceleration from the signals emitted by the four ABS sensors. CBC thus 'sees' the bend and builds up brake pressure faster on the front outer wheel than on the other wheels. This counteracts any inclination of the car to spin.
ASC+T Traction Control
Driver switchable ASC+T traction control is also standard on MINI Cooper S and optional on MINI Cooper. ASC+T prevents the front wheels from spinning from a standstill, even under adverse conditions. This keeps the driver in control of his car even when the wheels have varying grip and prevents the wheels from locking should there be a change in road surface. The system activates a dashboard warning light to warn the driver of wheelspin, regardless of whether ASC+T is activated or not.
DSC Dynamic Stability Control
DSC Dynamic Stability Control is also available as an option on both MINI Cooper and MINI Cooper S models as an extension of ABS and ASC+T. DSC monitors not only longitudinal forces, but also the lateral forces acting on the car.
In addition to the ABS speed sensors on the wheels, DSC uses further systems to measure the pressure in the brake cylinder (determining in this way whether and how the driver is applying the brakes), the steering wheel lock (in order to determine the direction and the lane chosen by the driver) and lateral acceleration acting on the car.
DSC is therefore in a position to detect the driver's intentions and the current motion of the car, sensing whether the vehicle is deviating critically from the desired direction of travel. It intervenes by varying the brake forces acting on the individual wheels and changing engine torque through the engine control unit.
In this way the system counteracts unstable driving conditions possibly caused by accelerating, applying the brakes, driving round bends or suddenly experiencing a change in load - that is conditions which may lead to over- or understeer.
When oversteering, the DSC control unit applies the brake on the outer front wheel. If the driver is already braking, the computer increases brake pressure on this wheel and reduces brake pressure on the wheels facing to the inside of the bend. When understeering, the DSC control unit applies the brake on the inner wheel in a bend, at the same time reducing brake pressure on the outer wheels.
Tyre Puncture Indicator
The MINI Cooper is the first car of its size and type to be fitted as standard with a tyre puncture indicator. This enables the driver to respond to a loss in pressure before the tyre is damaged or any kind of danger can arise.
The system is based on a simple principle. When it loses pressure, the tyre changes its rolling radius and its circumference, thus rotating at a higher speed. The system measures wheel speed through the sensors on the four-sensor ABS unit, comparing the wheels diagonally together with their average speed and thus recognising any loss of pressure. The indicator then warns the driver via a lamp in the speedometer.
All MINIs now come with 16-inch light alloy wheels with standard run-flat tyres - another unique feature for a car of this price.
These tyres feature reinforced sidewalls and a heat-resistant rubber compound, allowing functions such as ABS, traction control or Dynamic Stability Control to remain fully operative even if these tyres suffer a loss of pressure.
The tyres allow the car to be driven carefully for up to 150 km at a speed of up to 80 km/h until the tyre can be repaired.
Passive safety
The MINI also sets new standards of passive safety with the standard fitting of six airbags.
As well as front and side airbags to protect the driver and front seat passenger, Australian MINI Cooper and Cooper S models are also fitted with the AHPS 2 = Advanced Head Protection System and housed within the roof lining along the side panel, offering both front and rear occupants maximum protection from head injury.
The foundation for this benchmark level of passive safety is the carefully designed and coordinated bodyshell structure, with body stiffness 2-3 times greater than on comparable models. This also means less body vibration and, as a result, lower noise.
Should the worst come to the worst, the MINI again sets new standards. Body components absorbing energy in the event of an impact have been developed according to BMW Group principles. The transverse mounted engine ensures optimum performance in a crash, while the front axle also takes up energy passed on through the floorpan. The long wheelbase, low centre of gravity and minimal unsprung weight introduce a new level of roadholding and handling for a vehicle of its size.
Drivetrain
When Sir Alec Issigonis presented the Mini in 1959, the car was a genuine revolution in automotive design and engineering.
The original Mini was the first car in the world with its engine fitted crosswise at the front and with the gearbox beneath the engine.
This provided a lot more space at the front end of the car, enabling Issigonis to reach his ambitious objective of building a small family sedan with space for four adults. And at the same time he created the first small car able to drive like a sports car.
The new interpretation of the original now takes up this concept consistently and authentically, carrying it into the present and the future - the MINI is a small and compact car with front-wheel drive and excellent driving characteristics.
With its very low centre of gravity, the car's weight distribution is 63 per cent and 37 per cent on the rear wheels. This offers the MINI Cooper two benefits in one: First, the front end of the car has sufficient weight on the road in the interest of excellent traction; second, the weight distribution between the front and rear wheels, excellent for a front-wheel-drive vehicle, ensures outstanding driving characteristics on the road. These benefits are then further enhanced by the stiff body structure, the multi-arm rear axle and EHPAS steering.
The transmission, coolant pump and air conditioning compressor are bolted directly on to the engine block, thus making optimum use of the compact engine bay. The result is maximum space for the car's crumple zones.
Power Unit
Both versions of the MINI are driven by variants of the 1.6-litre Pentagon engine jointly developed by BMW and Chrysler.
The naturally aspirated engine of the MINI Cooper develops 85kW, while the MINI Cooper S is powered by a supercharged and intercooled version of the same engine developing 120kW.
The engine comes with one overhead camshaft incorporating a timing chain and four valves per cylinder as well as roller-type rocker arms acting on hydraulic valve play compensation units. The engine block is made of robust grey-cast iron for low noise and vibration transfer and the cylinder head is made of aluminium.
Active knock control allows the engine to run on unleaded fuel with an octane rating between 91 and 98.
Engine management is by a Siemens EMS 2000 control unit that also masterminds the infinitely variable transmission available as an option on the MINI Cooper.
Also revolutionary on a car of this size is E-gas, making the direct mechanical link between the accelerator and the engine a thing of the past. As the driver depresses the accelerator, a signal is sent to the Powertrain Controller, which assesses the current state of engine load and directs the fuel injection system to deliver precisely the correct amount of fuel to the cylinders.
When accelerating with full power, the system can determine the optimum fuel supply for maximum performance and minimum emissions. This calculation process takes place immediately and will normally go completely unnoticed.
The most important functions of the control unit are to monitor engine torque, optimise the level of torque and ensure a smooth, consistent response to the accelerator. Whenever the torque required by the driver remains below the maximum torque available, the control unit is able to retard the ignition timing, providing a torque reserve in the process. The driver experiences this as a particularly quick response to the accelerator pedal, providing enhanced driving conditions above all at low speeds.
The first engine service comes after 16,000-20,000 km, depending on how you drive the car. Then the ongoing service intervals are between 25,000 and 30,000 km. The spark plugs have a lifecycle of up to 90,000 km, meaning that they do not have to be changed until the car is serviced for the fourth time. This reduces the cost of ownership to a minimum.
Continuously Variable Transmission with Steptronic
The MINI Cooper is also available with the option of continuously variable transmission (CVT) with Steptronic control. This allows the customer to choose between normal automatic transmission motoring for convenient and smooth driving in city traffic and a more sporting style using a six-speed semi-automatic function. Although the continuously variable transmission is heavier than a manual gearbox, it is lighter than a conventional automatic transmission.
Section 6 MINI Chassis and Suspension
The MINI's front suspension is based on the McPherson spring-strut principle offering low weight and compact package.
For MINI the configuration has been optimised by an additional driveshaft bearing for equal length axle shafts bolted on to the engine block - a feature normally found only on the most expensive front-wheel-drive cars. The advantage is a symmetrical feedback of power in bends, when accelerating and when applying the brakes.
Small cars usually have drive shafts varying in length, meaning that the feedback effect is greater on the side with the short driveshaft, causing an unstable feeling on the road.
The MINI's multi-arm rear axle always keeps the wheels at a perfect angle on the road, giving the tyres full road contact at all times. Changes in road surface curvature therefore do not impair steering behaviour or traction. The multi-arm axle allows optimal use of the space available and provides a luggage compartment with a low floor and a large distance between the dampers.
The MINI Cooper comes with anti-roll bars on the front and rear axles as well as a sporting suspension set-up. EHPAS electrohydraulic power steering gives the driver excellent steering feel, while requiring just 2.5 turns from lock to lock.
The EHPAS steering works according to the rack-and-pinion principle. While conventional steering systems use hydraulic pumps constantly driven by the engine, the steering pump in the MINI is driven by a small electric motor operating independently of the power unit.
Since power steering is not constantly required, the motor is able to switch back to a more economical stand-by mode when no power assistance is necessary. Compared with a conventional hydraulic steering system, therefore, EHPAS steering helps to reduce fuel consumption by up to 0.1 litres per 100km.
Section 7 MINI Electrics and Electronics
The MINI features a highly advanced, multiplex electronic infrastructure. Incorporating a databus system, it is able to make do with a far smaller number of lines, cables and connectors previously indispensable on a conventional electronic system. The various tasks of the new electronic system are shared out among two primary units: The CAN bus system connects the engine management, brakes, transmission and the instruments, the K bus system is responsible for body electrics and electronics such as the interior lights, air conditioning, doors and windows.
Integration of these sub-systems and the mutual transmission of data from one system to the other offer many advantages over conventional electrical systems. The smaller number of connectors reduces the opportunity for electrical problems. The connectors retained are of a higher than usual quality. A further important point is that the job of installing and connecting cables in the assembly process is much easier. Weight is also reduced and it is easier to integrate additional functions.
The MINI Cooper features an innovative reflector system within the large headlights, which reduces the amount of stray light, adding as much as 25 percent more lighting power where drivers need it most.
An optional control function keeps the headlamps illuminated for 30 seconds after the door is closed, to light your way home.
A headlight washing system is available as an option. Xenon headlights are also available as an optional extra and the car may be fitted with fog lamps making a significant contribution to driving safety.
Further electrical and electronic features ensure additional safety and comfort on the road: Central locking comes with a remote control key for locking or opening the doors, the boot lid and the fuel filler cap reliably from a distance of up to 15 metres. The interior is illuminated as soon as you unlock the door. A further standard feature is the electronic immobiliser activated or deactivated from the key.
An alarm system triggered by unauthorised entry through the doors or windows is available as an option. This system also responds to any attempt at lifting or pushing the car away. Once the alarm is activated, the hazard lights flash and the horn sounds for 30 seconds. Should the driver not return to his vehicle until after this period, a warning light alerts him that the system has been activated.
The MINI's in-car entertainment system provides supreme sound quality, tailored to the acoustic conditions and air volume available in the cabin. The basic audio system features six loudspeakers, four in the front doors and two in the side panels at the rear.
A six-stacker CD player, in addition to the standard in-dash single CD player, in combination with various types of radios is also available and can be fitted in the luggage compartment.
A further high-tech feature usually not found in a car of this class is the navigation system with its 16:9 colour display.
Section 8 The MINI Brand Within the BMW Group
MINI has proved to be a raging success for the BMW Group.
Sales around the world have continued to accelerate, with Australia keeping pace.
In the first full year of sales here (March 2002-2003), 1757 MINI Coopers found owners, and more than 1000 have been sold in the first eight months of 2003.
This success places MINI as the top European import in the Prestige segment of the market, according to the industry's statistician, VFACTS.
In March this year, the 200,000th MINI customer took delivery of his new car, just 19 months on from the global retail launch. MINI production targets have been revised upwards several times in order to keep pace with demand.
Almost 50,000 MINIs were sold worldwide in the first three months of 2003 and the pace has not slackened since.
The UK is still the biggest market for MINI, with the USA, Germany and Italy next largest.
MINI sales are booming in the UK with the brand capturing its biggest market share since launch in July 2001 in July 2003.
MINI sales accounted for 2.18 per cent of the UK market, or 4,282 cars, 80 per cent up on sales during July 2002. The sales figures show that better than one in 50 new cars sold in the UK were MINI brand vehicles.
MINI has sold 24,381 cars so far in 2003 in the UK.
European sales are set to sky-rocket still further thanks to the debut of the MINI One D, the first diesel powered MINI ever. However there are no plans to offer the turbo-diesel powered MINI in Australia.
MINI is a unique, independent brand within the BMW Group. Together with BMW, it forms the second major pillar within the BMW Group's premium brand strategy. The MINI brand enables the BMW Group to reach new segments of the market previously difficult to reach through the BMW brand. In this way, the BMW Group is expanding its presence in the market.
MINI brand products were largely developed in the British offices of the BMW Group by an international MINI project team.
The MINI is built at the BMW Group Plant in Oxford, UK, according to the principles of BMW Group production and BMW Group quality standards.
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