Tuner adds grunt to Mini Cooper S

Courtesy of BMW specialist AC Schnitzer

Mini Cooper S with added grunt

BMW tuner and tweaker AC Schnitzer has added the Mini Cooper S to the range of cars with its unique touch. This new project "combines what can be achieved on public roads and racetracks", according to the company.

Using some of its standard BMW components, AC Schnitzer has added Recaro bucket seats and a new, lower seating position which "has a positive effect on the overall weight distribution of the vehicle". The company has also added a Drexler limited slip differential for better track manners.

The Cooper S's supercharged 1.6-litre engine, which delivers 170bhp as standard, has been given a boost by AC Schnitzer -- it's raised the compression ratio and modified the control unit programming to bring power to 222bhp at 7,200 rpm. Performance is up of course, from 7.2 seconds for the 0-60mph dash to 6.8 seconds, with a top speed of 153mph (137mph in the standard car). Power curves are on the company's Web site (link below -- follow the press releases link).

Brakes have been enhanced to cope, the Schnitzer car using four-pot fixed callipers. In addition, there's the usual range of bodywork extensions available.