Mini Cooper BMW

Mini Cooper BMW

Obviously remaking a icon which first time-honored itself in the swinging 60's was going to be a hard job however the new Mini brought to the party everything the old Mini had, harsh ride coupled by means of go-kart like handling, quirky charm, cute face and coupled by a modern funky interior they had on their hands an instant sales success.

A largely gutless performance was cured with the introduction of the supercharged Cooper S and the model was quickly well-known as one of the leading small "hot hatches" available in the market.

At the end of 2006 the Mk2 Cooper S was launched with a new turbocharged engine producing 172bhp. There were other changes such as a to some extent redesigned longer body, better but still funky, interior and a heavy nod to more stringent safety legislation. A suspension makeover and thrilling power steering completes the package. This MK2 is now readily available on the second hand market.

First thing to feel when getting into the car compared to the earlier model are more supportive seats. Fire up the engine and it makes all the right noises. This car is a Mini, pure and simple. Short throw gearbox, a wheel at each corner and that legendary kart like handling. One gripe to get out of the way is the feel from the new electric power steering which gives a feeling of numbness and detracts from the Mk2 when compared to the previous model.

Push this car hard through the corners and much fun is there to be had. The burbly exhaust note at tickover turns into a satisfying throaty growl and there is of course no trace of the annoying whine prevalent in the earlier supercharged model.

This car exudes poise through the bends by the new suspension set up comprising a new central arm rear axel by lightweight aluminium longitudinal control arms and retuned spring and damper rates. Feel may be to some extent lacking from the new steering set up but you quickly get used to this. The car feels precise and perhaps the slightly numb feel is the price to pay for a more firmly planted and agile ride. This car is very capable of showing up the competition despite a lack of horsepower compared to some of them.

Motorway cruising remains limited and is best avoided. This car excels through the twisties and that is where it is best enjoyed. Point and squirt, work the gearbox and enjoy. If you are looking for the purest fun factor you may be disappointed and the earlier supercharged model may be for you however the added poise and quality feeling of the Mk2 makes this a better all round package.

Bear in mind air con is a cost option but always worth having. Standard wheels are 16 inchers and looks apart these are recommended by means of the addition of the optional. sports suspension.