2005 MINI Cooper S Works Preview

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

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 Canada)

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 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 there's a valid reason behind the postponement. With a reputation such as the Works

The meanest of MINIs, this one can hit 100 km/h in 6.6 seconds before topping out at 230 km/h. (Photo: MINI Canada)

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 powerful fuel injectors, revised mapping for the engine's ECU and a sportier stainless steel exhaust system. MINI claims that fuel consumption is hardly affected from the previous model, which stands at 8.6 L/100 km (27 mpg).