Persbericht: John Cooper Works Tuning Kit - 154 kW/ 210 bhp tuning kit for the MINI Cooper S.

John Cooper Works has launched a new tuning kit, transforming the MINI Cooper S
into the fastest and most powerful MINI on the road. The power package is
distributed exclusively by John Cooper Works, based in West Sussex and MINI
dealers worldwide. MINI Cooper S and MINI Cooper S Convertibles from any year
of manufacturer are suitable for modification.

MINI Cooper S - with acceleration from 0-100 km/h in 6.6 seconds and a top
speed of 230 km/h.
The new tuning kit for the MINI Cooper S from John Cooper Works again helps to
excel the performance of the British favourite. 154 kW/ 210 bhp at 6,950 rpm
transforms the MINI Cooper S into a sports car that leaves many of its rivals
standing as its chrome-plated dual exhaust tailpipe disappears into the
distance.
With only the discreet JCW badge to hint at the potential performance, other
motorists are unlikely to realise that under the familiar body, a JCW kit
lurks. A kit that produces 245 Nm at 4,500 rpm, has in-gear acceleration from
80 to 120 km/h in 5.4 seconds (in 4th gear), and sprints to 100 km/h in 6.6
seconds from standstill, with a top speed of 230 km/h.

Outstanding MINI qualities - maximum wheelbase, maximum track width, optimum
weight distribution - form the perfect foundation for the awesome cornering
qualities. The extraordinary power output of the engines tuned by John Cooper
Works for the MINI Cooper S further enhances the cars performance for ultimate
driving pleasure.

This new tuning kit marks a benchmark in technology for the driver as well as
stimulating the senses of passer-bys as they see it nip through town, hearing
the sound of the air intake, the high revs and the exhaust. Excellent
road-handling gives a drive as if on rails - nothing could describe a John
Cooper Works MINI Cooper S more aptly.

High-end technology package from the racing professional: 96 kW/130 bhp per
litre cubic capacity.
The unparalleled flair of the John Cooper Works tuning kit for the MINI Cooper
S is the result of decades of experience gained in international racing, skill
in precision mechanics and state-of-the-art technology. Dedicated technicians
employed at John Cooper Works have created a vehicle with a completely unique
character using tuning technology. High-quality components and systems are
developed and perfectly harmonized with each other, and later subjected to
stringent durability tests in accordance with the most demanding international
and BMW Group standards. Importantly, a MINI Cooper S tuned by John Cooper
Works will always remain a vehicle suitable for everyday use, but with a raised
fun factor and increased performance.

Drastically modified engine.
The basis of the new tuning kit for the MINI Cooper S is the new super charger,
replacing the standard supercharger and operating at a higher speed, thereby
producing increased supercharging pressure. This is the foundation of further
modifications to the complete MINI Cooper S engine, ensuring a balanced tuning
performance as a whole.

The air filter is fitted with an additional air intake flap which opens at
4,500 rpm so the power unit with a higher compressor output is adequately
aspirated. A welcome side effect for sports-minded MINI enthusiasts: what a
sound! Just listen to the awesome acoustics of the MINI Cooper S resulting from
the additional air filter intake flap.

As an increased supercharging pressure requires an optimised flow process
inside the cylinder head, the inlet and outlet ports were adapted to suit the
changed conditions, a result of two years of development. New high-power spark
plugs, injectors with higher throughput and adapted engine management ensure
efficient combustion and optimum fuel consumption that, considering the
enhanced performance, is moderate at 8.6 l/100 km in an ECE cycle. This
complies with EU 4 standard. With the optimised rear silencer, the exhaust
backpressure has been adapted to suit the changed conditions.

Power only discreetly perceivable from the outside.
John Cooper Works give an impressive exterior show with a sports suspension,
18-inch rims and high-grade carbon add-on parts, but when it comes to the
tuning kit, the focus is mainly on inner values. The only implications of what
is concealed inside are the slanting, larger-dimensioned dual exhaust tailpipes
and a discreet John Cooper Works emblem on tailgate and front apron. Inside the
engine compartment the new air filter housing and a silver-finished engine
cover give indication to the most powerful of MINIs.

Comprehensive John Cooper Works tests - maintaining the MINI warranty.
The impressive performance produced by the MINI Cooper S with the John Cooper
Works tuning kit is the result of a development process lasting several years.
The tuning kit has been rigorously and comprehensively tested in compliance
with stringent John Cooper Works and BMW Group standards. These extensive
testing cycles, component tests and approval procedures come from years of
motor racing and tuning experience, during which, a total distance of 240,000
kilometres was covered, 30,000 of them at high speeds. The tests ensure not
only the highest possible degree of passenger safety, but are also a condition
for the full maintenance of the MINI warranty's validity, facilitating sales by
MINI dealers worldwide.

6,000 tuning kits since the spring of 2003. Upgrade kit for previous 147 kW/
200 bhp version.
Since introducing the John Cooper Works tuning kit in spring 2003, 6,000 cars
have been fitted with the kit worldwide, significantly exceeding expectations
of the target 3,000.

To stay ahead with previously available tuning kits, John Cooper Works is
offering an upgrade kit (for existing 200 bhp Works owners), comprising of an
air filter and modified injectors producing a 7kW/10 bhp increase in output.

"... is the size of their toys" : The full John Cooper Works range for MINI.
Subtle expressions such as "the difference between men and boys is the size of
their toys" undoubtedly form part of the success story which, like MINI and
John Cooper Works, with its origins in England has spread across the entire
globe. John Cooper Works offers motorists not only the tuning kit for the MINI
Cooper S, but also a comprehensive range of high-performance parts for inside
and outside, as well as additional kits for individualising MINI cars to
personal taste. Where technically feasible, they are available across the
entire MINI model range (MINI One, MINI Cooper and MINI Cooper S and respective
convertible versions). All John Cooper Works components are perfectly
harmonized each offering a well-balanced overall package. Of course, we haven't
forgotten the kids: Would-be racing drivers can buzz around the home test track
between their room and the patio in a 1:18 scale version of a John Cooper Works
MINI Cooper S. They will also love the cool-looking John Cooper Works team
baseball caps and T-shirts.

For your ears only: John Cooper Works Sound Kit for the MINI Cooper.
The John Cooper Works sound kit for the MINI Cooper does not replace the car
stereo system. However, should the automatic station search have trouble coping
with the MINI Cooper's zest for zooming round bends, the sound kit is
definitely the answer. A special connection between the air filter and the
interior guarantees listening enjoyment. There is also a modest kick
noticeable at the wheel. Together with modified engine management software and
a high-grade steel sports exhaust system, boasting a John Cooper Works
embossing, the sound kit boosts power output by 2 kW/3 bhp. The MINI Cooper
with the sound kit produces 87 kW/118 bhp. Customer get a certificate signed
personally by Mike Cooper confirming the authenticity of the John Cooper Works
components fitted. The sound kit is due to be available by the end of 2004.

John Cooper Works sports suspension, sports brake system, sports seats.
The John Cooper Works sports suspension brings any MINI up to 15mm nearer the
road. The centre of gravity is also lowered and spring travel becomes shorter.
Firm, red lacquered coil springs are a visual indication of what can be
expected - namely even better road holding, more agility and unlimited driving
fun.

The new John Cooper Works sports brake system does full justice to the
excellent driving dynamics provided by the MINI. Featuring larger brake discs
at the front and special brake pads on the rear axle, they are especially
designed to deal with high thermal strain. Like the coil springs featured on
the sports suspension, the brake callipers are red, co-ordinating with the John
Cooper Works light-alloy rims. On the whole, the new sports brake system is a
crucial improvement in safety, providing facilitating consistent well-balanced
acceleration and stopping power. The John Cooper Works sports brake system will
be available for all MINIs at the end of 2004.

In 1967 Rauno Aaltonen, an elder statesman of rally driving, accomplished his
victory in the Monte Carlo Rally driving an original Mini, after already having
participated in 1964 and 1965. This is a real car for Rauno Aaltonen and he
knows more than just PS. Between the shoulder blades and the backs of the knees
sports-minded drivers have their main reflexes required for perfect driving
mastery, and the larger the man to machine contact surface is, the better. So
"Move your body close to me" is the motto when referring to John Cooper Works
sports seats. They cling to the driver and front passenger like a tailor-made
glove, right down to the extendable thigh support which, along with the
seat-heating, is optional. John Cooper Works sports seats are available in a
range of colours and upholstery materials (fabric and leather). Lumbar support
and rear-seat easy-entry feature are standard. Rear seats with sports styling
are also available as an option, the design of which, of course, fully matches
the driver?s/front passenger's seat.

Those who like race car rigidity will go for the optional cross-brace featured
in the engine compartment. The rigid link between the spring strut pivotal
points on the front axle prevents even the slightest chassis movement when
driving the car to its limits.

The John Cooper Works 18-inch light-alloy wheels Star Spoke R95 put the
finishing touch to the MINI's sporty looks, giving each model a significantly
"light-footed" appearance.

Carbon for the interior and exterior.
John Cooper Works offers a range of high-grade carbon parts to underline the
overall sporting flair of the MINI and add an extra touch of colour. Air intake
on the bonnet (MINI Cooper S only), rearview mirror covers and tailgate handle
are available in this exclusive lightweight material, and the inside of the car
can be upgraded with the co-ordinating interior trim. The rear roof spoiler
will be available from the end of 2004. Also made of carbon, it will be a
technologically aesthetic enhancement on any MINI.

Welcome to the club: MINI Clubsport racing series powered by John Cooper Works.
The MINI Clubsport racing series already exists in several countries.
Identically equipped MINI Cooper S cars fitted with the John Cooper Works
tuning kit a wheel to wheel fight for race track glory. The MINI Clubsport
racing series is an ideal opportunity for amateurs with motor racing ambitions
and petrol running through their veins, a great experience for drivers and
spectators alike.

The legend lives on.
John Cooper Works: More than 50 years of dedication to motorsport.
Like MINI, the name Cooper has been synonymous with cars and motorsport from
the UK for decades. Founded in the late forties by Charles and his son John
Cooper, the Cooper Car Company soon became the leading and largest maker of
automobiles for professional motor racing. Racing cars sporting a rear engine
-these days perfectly acceptable - was an idea originally conceived by the
Cooper Car Company. Initially a target of ridicule, particularly in the USA
("the engine is at the wrong end"), Cooper rear-engine racing cars won both the
constructor and driver world championships in 1959 and 1960. Over the past 50
years, almost every motor racing legend turned to Cooper, be it Jack Brabham,
Bruce McLaren, Jackie Stewart or Juan Manuel Fangio.

Since the launch of the first Mini, both brands have been intrinsically
linked. Following successes in Formula 1 racing, John Cooper became involved
in rally sports. The small, agile Mini was an ideal candidate to give its
established rivals some fierce competition. The victories seized by Mini in
the Monte Carlo Rally in 1964, 1965 and 1967 became legendary. However, the
Mini Cooper and the Mini Cooper S were also extremely popular on the road,
strengthening the original Mini's reputation of being agile with awesome
driving dynamics.

From the beginning, MINI has welcomed the involvement of Mike Cooper, John
Cooper's son, and his company in the development of new, high-performance
models. Each MINI Cooper, MINI Cooper S and John Cooper Works tuning kit is a
result of the dedication and the experience of a company and of personalities
who have set milestones in motorsport for decades.