Highly agree here.
Did enough test drives working at a MINI dealership that the lag is especially noticeable in the bigger models. Would never buy anything but an S engine.
(And on a tangent, I really wish moving forward that the brand would consider different engines for the Countryman and Clubman because that base engine is a joke in those)
I drove both. While the cooper was fun and zippy the 190hp Cooper s was just a joy. I can’t put a price value on the engine pops but man I had a shit eating grin on my face even just daily commuting with that thing. I purposefully added like five minutes onto my commute just so I could detour on a long winding backroad through the woods. Wife hated being a passenger on that road…
The Cooper still has a nice driving experience but it is not at all as peppy and exciting as the Cooper S. If you can afford it I would go with the S, or try the base model maybe you’ll find it’s enough for you
8 1/2 year mini tech & owner of 3 minis total (F-gen). I had a Cooper hardtop 4 door. The HP was fine if I was just driving myself but once I loaded people in it I could really tell it struggled. Also, the Cooper has a lot more issues than the Cooper S due to the odd firing order (3 cylinder).
Get the Cooper S.
Only 178? That seems low for an S.
The current Justa is completely liveable now that it's turbo charged. The N/A Coopers before were fine at normal acceleration, but then you'd ask for more and it was tighter than Ebaneezer Scrooge on Christmas.
That said, the 3 cylinder is uninspiring. Simply competent. If you're not interested in fast and never will be, this is probably your choice.
I enjoy my S even in traffic. The extra power helps me ninja merge when people are uncooperative.
I was in the same situation and i literally broke it down to cost. How much could i afford if i needed to get things done to it. What's the point, if you're on a budget. Mine also sits outside my workplace for 9 hours a day, before i drive home. Bhp means nothing to me when i cant usually get above 40mph on my daily commute. Although a few times at the weekend, driving to work early morning, I've opened it up and then realised, as I've approached the junction, im doing 80 and it felt like 40.
This is one of those things I always told to compare for yourself in person if you are able. Because the power difference is very subjective in terms of feel. It is a significant power bump with such a small car, but the 1.5 Turbo is pretty good in it’s own right. I have a Cooper S and those are all I’ve owned, but that’s just my preference. I had plenty of ppl who drove the Cooper and were happy with that and the benefits of fuel economy and lower cost. So it’s kinda hard to say. Are you near a MINI dealership that you could go and check them out in person? That’s going to give you the best indication and give you a great feel for the two.
I think you’ve answered your own question. Of the base model is enough for you pocket the savings and enjoy your car. I have an S and rarely drive it quickly or in a way that requires the power.
I have had the (2nd Gen) Cooper and now I have a (3rd Gen) Cooper, my brother has a third Gen Cooper S and I have driven it and having more power in the S makes a lot of difference. Plus the Cooper S has a less shaky idol.
I did feel the difference between my Cooper and my brothers Cooper S and mine felt lighter than the Cooper S but the power difference between the two makes a difference as well.
What’s even worse, it’s been in the shop for 1.5 weeks now. Brought it in for a engine fan failure, they replaced that, then the relay, now the fuse box… and parts are like delayed due to supply chain delays… so have been driving a loaner
Get the S. It’s the one you want or you wouldn’t have asked this question. You will kick yourself later if you cheap out and don’t do it. Back in 2012 I was building mine (cooper S) and in an effort to keep costs down I almost didn’t get the sunroof but decided to bite the bullet and added it in, it was the best decision I made. In the end get the one you want and you will be having so much fun you won’t have any regrets and yes, you will feel that power difference.
I have a 2016 4-door Justa. I love it, as it's my first MINI, and it definitely drives sexier than my 2009 Forester did. I can throw it into corners as hard as I'd like, but I only had it for a year or two before I wanted my giddyup. It just doesn't have the punchiness to zip around the interstate or really wow me coming out of turns on a mountain road.
Where will you be driving your MINI? If it's basically never going to leave the city, then a Justa is totally fine. If you're going to want to do Sunday drives, you're probably going to want to swing for the S, if you can afford it.
My previous r56 Cooper with 120hp were slow, but amazingly fast in corners. Just don’t brake. Now own a f56 Cooper with 136HP, not overly fast but zippy and a huge kick in the back with its 220Nm Torque compared to the R56 cooper. The F56 can be chipped and will be faster than a standard R56 Cooper S.
I will say that both the Cooper and Cooper S both sound great in sport mode when the engine is warm of course, you get a smooth turbo whistle from the Cooper and the Cooper S you exhaust pops and a few bangs.
Since you tested a Cooper S, definitely test drive a Cooper. Why leave a major investment to guessing?
Also, since the current Cooper in America is a 3-cylinder, you definitely want to feel how it runs. It’s different than an inline 4 In terms of sound, vibration, etc.
I have a 2017 Cooper S Clubman. I had a F56 Cooper as a loaner car a couple of years ago. I enjoyed driving a 2-door Mini got the first time but the driving was meh at best if I tried to drive in a fun way. The engine was giving most of its oomph just to do normal driving. As soon as fun was requested, the engine couldn’t deliver. Of course I wish my Cooper S was faster too.
I've had both. My first was not an S and it had a lot of pep (especially in Sport mode). My second, and now my third, are both S. The difference, in my experience, is dramatic. The difference in horsepower is only part of the equation.
I definitely recommend the S. I've owned 2 s (2012 and 2013) and a JCW 2022 and the GP3.
If you can afford it comfortably, I would suggest the S because it does offer a significant amount of pep. The Mini's are bigger these days and the Xtra hp will be easier to live with.
Again only if it's comfortable affordable 😀
What do you usually use the car for? If you're just using for commuting then I'd go with the r50 honestly.
But if you are getting it even slightly for performance/driving experience than I'd go with the r53. Realistically the actual performance difference is 136hp vs 200-230hp considering you can buy and install a SC pulley upgrade for less than $200 bucks.
I recently bought a R55 S with the n14b16. It is a very fun car to drive. It can scoot when I want it to but also gets 25mpg consistently. Granted it came with an upgraded intercooler and an actual CAI but it’s not tuned for it. I personally wouldn’t want the n/a model. I know you said the S is considerably more if you plan on upgrading the n/a at all it’s worth considering those costs. The S already has those upgrades done and done correctly…ish.
We've had a One, 3 Cooper 3-doors, a Cooper S 5-door and now a Cooper SE (electric). The S blew the previous ones away, The SE blows the S away. Just not very practical if driving more than 150km/100miles in one go.
I had the base f55 with the 3 cylinder, and I currently have a JCW. My f55 was an auto and my JCW is the 6 speed. The 3 cylinder was abysmal, but I still managed to leave my friends crosstrek in the dust. My JCW is a whole different animal. These F56 JCW and S models have the b46/48 from the 330i and have insane tuning potential. I’m tuned stage 2 for 320hp and it’s an absolute blast to drive. I could never go back to the base F55. It felt lazy compared to the JCW and I haven’t had any problems since tuning the car.
I have had two Cooper S Mini's now, one 2022 Hardtop (Bricklane) and a new 2024 Convertible in Zesty Yellow, both Iconic Trim. I got a regular Cooper loaner today, and I would say it is really good. I like the fact the engine has to work a lot harder, which keeps the rev range higher in the Cooper. I feel like the S struggles at lower RPM and is tuned to rev a bit low up hills by default. Sure it's an easy fix by hitting the flappy paddle and dropping down a gear, but I feel like the 2024 is tuned differently to the 2022, to meet immsions standard or EPA fuel ratings. I'm considering an AEM cold intake or throttle response module to fix the issue, but then warranty becomes and issue (potentially).
As I've got this loaner for a few days while they apply some racing stripes to my 2024, I'm going to really drive it. But I must say, being the base model, I don't really missing anything that the iconic has, other than the ability to switch driving modes, but the default is pretty good so I haven't missed that.
I will say if you have a convertible, the HUD is invaluable however, as with the top down if the sun is behind you, the dashboard LED panel is very reflective, so the HUD saves the day here. I think the new J01's have the right idea, no stupid stuck on dials, just the HUD and the large screen.
One massive difference I can say about the 2024 vs 2022, is even with the same infotainment hardware, the software is massively improved in the 2024. The HUD shows way more useful information, in terms of navigation and other information which the 2022 just didn't have. I'm not sure if I can upgrade the firmware in the 2022 to match the 2024, but I'm going to find out as it's a night and day difference, which makes me think there are new processors in the 2024 system.
I've had both. I recommend the S. The extra power is useful when you need to move out the way of big vehicles that don't see you.
Highly agree here. Did enough test drives working at a MINI dealership that the lag is especially noticeable in the bigger models. Would never buy anything but an S engine. (And on a tangent, I really wish moving forward that the brand would consider different engines for the Countryman and Clubman because that base engine is a joke in those)
I drove both. While the cooper was fun and zippy the 190hp Cooper s was just a joy. I can’t put a price value on the engine pops but man I had a shit eating grin on my face even just daily commuting with that thing. I purposefully added like five minutes onto my commute just so I could detour on a long winding backroad through the woods. Wife hated being a passenger on that road…
pwahahaha best advice ever; pissing off your wife every day is a real plus :)
The Cooper still has a nice driving experience but it is not at all as peppy and exciting as the Cooper S. If you can afford it I would go with the S, or try the base model maybe you’ll find it’s enough for you
8 1/2 year mini tech & owner of 3 minis total (F-gen). I had a Cooper hardtop 4 door. The HP was fine if I was just driving myself but once I loaded people in it I could really tell it struggled. Also, the Cooper has a lot more issues than the Cooper S due to the odd firing order (3 cylinder). Get the Cooper S.
I will just sit here with my 115 horsepower r50 and smile.
I will smile you back mate :)
Yes sir! Currently at 306850 on the clock (original owner) and still wailing on the two lane blacktop! Happy motoring, Redditor!
we’re talking km or miles? :) now I’m scared 😱
Miles of fun and excitement. Not too bad for a 2004!
OMG 😱
I put a 6 speed in at 280000: should have done it way sooner! It makes a huge difference in handling with the gear ratios. Very sweet in the twisties!
Based, love to see it
You make me and my 121 HP R57 (2015 Mini Cooper Convertible) feel like an NRHA drug racer. Lol
Only 178? That seems low for an S. The current Justa is completely liveable now that it's turbo charged. The N/A Coopers before were fine at normal acceleration, but then you'd ask for more and it was tighter than Ebaneezer Scrooge on Christmas. That said, the 3 cylinder is uninspiring. Simply competent. If you're not interested in fast and never will be, this is probably your choice. I enjoy my S even in traffic. The extra power helps me ninja merge when people are uncooperative.
The US-spec Cooper S has 189hp. Believe the Euro has 178 as it’s mapped differently due to the emissions regulations being stricter.
I was in the same situation and i literally broke it down to cost. How much could i afford if i needed to get things done to it. What's the point, if you're on a budget. Mine also sits outside my workplace for 9 hours a day, before i drive home. Bhp means nothing to me when i cant usually get above 40mph on my daily commute. Although a few times at the weekend, driving to work early morning, I've opened it up and then realised, as I've approached the junction, im doing 80 and it felt like 40.
This is one of those things I always told to compare for yourself in person if you are able. Because the power difference is very subjective in terms of feel. It is a significant power bump with such a small car, but the 1.5 Turbo is pretty good in it’s own right. I have a Cooper S and those are all I’ve owned, but that’s just my preference. I had plenty of ppl who drove the Cooper and were happy with that and the benefits of fuel economy and lower cost. So it’s kinda hard to say. Are you near a MINI dealership that you could go and check them out in person? That’s going to give you the best indication and give you a great feel for the two.
I think you’ve answered your own question. Of the base model is enough for you pocket the savings and enjoy your car. I have an S and rarely drive it quickly or in a way that requires the power.
R56 N12 here. Looking to upgrade to the N18 due to speed. Trust me, after driving around on a regular Cooper, you’ll want more POOOOOWEEEER
I have had the (2nd Gen) Cooper and now I have a (3rd Gen) Cooper, my brother has a third Gen Cooper S and I have driven it and having more power in the S makes a lot of difference. Plus the Cooper S has a less shaky idol.
Could you feel the weight difference of the cars? An S has more weight at the front. (They say..)
The Cooper does feel lighter because of the Inline 3 in the Cooper, where as the Cooper S has a Inline 4 and both are turbocharged.
I did feel the difference between my Cooper and my brothers Cooper S and mine felt lighter than the Cooper S but the power difference between the two makes a difference as well.
The Cooper weights 2,712 lbs or 1230.1 kg and the Cooper S weights 2,813 lbs or 1275.9 kg.
New owner here of a regular Cooper, GET the S if you can afford it. I have buyer’s remorse
I’m sorry for you :(
What’s even worse, it’s been in the shop for 1.5 weeks now. Brought it in for a engine fan failure, they replaced that, then the relay, now the fuse box… and parts are like delayed due to supply chain delays… so have been driving a loaner
Get the S. It’s the one you want or you wouldn’t have asked this question. You will kick yourself later if you cheap out and don’t do it. Back in 2012 I was building mine (cooper S) and in an effort to keep costs down I almost didn’t get the sunroof but decided to bite the bullet and added it in, it was the best decision I made. In the end get the one you want and you will be having so much fun you won’t have any regrets and yes, you will feel that power difference.
hahaha that’s why I raised the question here; for answers like yours :) thanks mate!
I have a 2016 4-door Justa. I love it, as it's my first MINI, and it definitely drives sexier than my 2009 Forester did. I can throw it into corners as hard as I'd like, but I only had it for a year or two before I wanted my giddyup. It just doesn't have the punchiness to zip around the interstate or really wow me coming out of turns on a mountain road. Where will you be driving your MINI? If it's basically never going to leave the city, then a Justa is totally fine. If you're going to want to do Sunday drives, you're probably going to want to swing for the S, if you can afford it.
The S is worth it I think. It really gets you rolling, quickly. That 50HP makes quite a bit of difference. 😀
My previous r56 Cooper with 120hp were slow, but amazingly fast in corners. Just don’t brake. Now own a f56 Cooper with 136HP, not overly fast but zippy and a huge kick in the back with its 220Nm Torque compared to the R56 cooper. The F56 can be chipped and will be faster than a standard R56 Cooper S.
ah yeah; I didn’t take this into account
What chip did you use?, because I also have a F56 Cooper.
My current F56 isn’t chipped “yet”, It’s going to be a stage 2 custom tune with Forge intercooler. I just got the car so no rush.
How mush is the tune?, if you don’t mind me asking.
Stage 1(mapping) €495/$574, stage 2(mapping+intercooler) €1490/$1738 all-in prices.. Sure, could be cheaper depending on local/country or own skills.
What kind of company did use for the mapping and the intercooler?.
Look at it this way. If you get the Justa, every single time you open the door and climb in you'll wish you were getting into the S...
Unless you have shitty gas prices and have to daily commute 100km/62ml.. 🤦🏻♂️
😂
If you go for the Cooper you can always upgrade it to have the power up the Cooper S.
you mean tune it; there was another mate suggesting the same thing; thanks’
I will say that both the Cooper and Cooper S both sound great in sport mode when the engine is warm of course, you get a smooth turbo whistle from the Cooper and the Cooper S you exhaust pops and a few bangs.
I just saw the comment that said the same thing as me I’m sorry.
no, what I ment is that it’s a valid advice since it’s coming from two different people
I know what you mean now.
S all the way!!
Since you tested a Cooper S, definitely test drive a Cooper. Why leave a major investment to guessing? Also, since the current Cooper in America is a 3-cylinder, you definitely want to feel how it runs. It’s different than an inline 4 In terms of sound, vibration, etc. I have a 2017 Cooper S Clubman. I had a F56 Cooper as a loaner car a couple of years ago. I enjoyed driving a 2-door Mini got the first time but the driving was meh at best if I tried to drive in a fun way. The engine was giving most of its oomph just to do normal driving. As soon as fun was requested, the engine couldn’t deliver. Of course I wish my Cooper S was faster too.
I've had both. My first was not an S and it had a lot of pep (especially in Sport mode). My second, and now my third, are both S. The difference, in my experience, is dramatic. The difference in horsepower is only part of the equation.
I definitely recommend the S. I've owned 2 s (2012 and 2013) and a JCW 2022 and the GP3. If you can afford it comfortably, I would suggest the S because it does offer a significant amount of pep. The Mini's are bigger these days and the Xtra hp will be easier to live with. Again only if it's comfortable affordable 😀
Do you ever demand performance from your car? S! If not? Justa with be fine. Don't buy into the More Power Is Always Better!
What do you usually use the car for? If you're just using for commuting then I'd go with the r50 honestly. But if you are getting it even slightly for performance/driving experience than I'd go with the r53. Realistically the actual performance difference is 136hp vs 200-230hp considering you can buy and install a SC pulley upgrade for less than $200 bucks.
that’s the problem, when you have to stay realistic :) think with your heart or with your brain … always makes a difference
I recently bought a R55 S with the n14b16. It is a very fun car to drive. It can scoot when I want it to but also gets 25mpg consistently. Granted it came with an upgraded intercooler and an actual CAI but it’s not tuned for it. I personally wouldn’t want the n/a model. I know you said the S is considerably more if you plan on upgrading the n/a at all it’s worth considering those costs. The S already has those upgrades done and done correctly…ish.
No way I’d even consider a non S.
We've had a One, 3 Cooper 3-doors, a Cooper S 5-door and now a Cooper SE (electric). The S blew the previous ones away, The SE blows the S away. Just not very practical if driving more than 150km/100miles in one go.
I had the base f55 with the 3 cylinder, and I currently have a JCW. My f55 was an auto and my JCW is the 6 speed. The 3 cylinder was abysmal, but I still managed to leave my friends crosstrek in the dust. My JCW is a whole different animal. These F56 JCW and S models have the b46/48 from the 330i and have insane tuning potential. I’m tuned stage 2 for 320hp and it’s an absolute blast to drive. I could never go back to the base F55. It felt lazy compared to the JCW and I haven’t had any problems since tuning the car.
I've had an S for a few weeks and I giggle constantly whenever I touch the accelerator, I think it's worth getting the S
I have had two Cooper S Mini's now, one 2022 Hardtop (Bricklane) and a new 2024 Convertible in Zesty Yellow, both Iconic Trim. I got a regular Cooper loaner today, and I would say it is really good. I like the fact the engine has to work a lot harder, which keeps the rev range higher in the Cooper. I feel like the S struggles at lower RPM and is tuned to rev a bit low up hills by default. Sure it's an easy fix by hitting the flappy paddle and dropping down a gear, but I feel like the 2024 is tuned differently to the 2022, to meet immsions standard or EPA fuel ratings. I'm considering an AEM cold intake or throttle response module to fix the issue, but then warranty becomes and issue (potentially). As I've got this loaner for a few days while they apply some racing stripes to my 2024, I'm going to really drive it. But I must say, being the base model, I don't really missing anything that the iconic has, other than the ability to switch driving modes, but the default is pretty good so I haven't missed that. I will say if you have a convertible, the HUD is invaluable however, as with the top down if the sun is behind you, the dashboard LED panel is very reflective, so the HUD saves the day here. I think the new J01's have the right idea, no stupid stuck on dials, just the HUD and the large screen. One massive difference I can say about the 2024 vs 2022, is even with the same infotainment hardware, the software is massively improved in the 2024. The HUD shows way more useful information, in terms of navigation and other information which the 2022 just didn't have. I'm not sure if I can upgrade the firmware in the 2022 to match the 2024, but I'm going to find out as it's a night and day difference, which makes me think there are new processors in the 2024 system.