R50/R53 :: Hatch Talk (2002-2006) Cooper (R50) and Cooper S (R53) hatchback discussion.

R50/53 Noob questions about 2006 Base

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  #1  
Old 06-29-2010 | 03:30 PM
dannyhavok's Avatar
dannyhavok
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Noob questions about 2006 Base

I got this car just a few days ago. I've been reading forums, etc, and although it is a blast and very peppy, I already wish I'd had the option of getting the "S."

My question is, can the Base model be upgraded with a turbocharger? I realize this is probably a dumb question, please be gentle! If not, are there any modifications I can make to improve it's pull? Cold air intake, throttle mods, anything like that?

Any help is really appreciated!
 
  #2  
Old 06-29-2010 | 03:43 PM
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Agarwaen
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To artificially aspirate it, you'd have to pretty much rebuild the engine. CAI and exhaust will be your easiest two mods to improve power in a "Just a cooper"
 
  #3  
Old 06-29-2010 | 04:03 PM
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sequence
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what he said, maybe a chip tune to go with that CAI and cat-back exhaust?

oh and did U demo a 2007+ justacooper, maybe for comparison's sake? You would be shocked at the difference.

In the interim, some reading: https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...ance-gain.html
 

Last edited by sequence; 06-29-2010 at 04:14 PM.
  #4  
Old 06-29-2010 | 05:30 PM
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dannyhavok
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Great, thanks guys! I'll look into those mods and maybe trade up once I pay it off! I did not have a chance to test drive a newer one, but I got a great price on this and it only has 30,000km on it, so hopefully it will give me a few years of fun! I'm making the transition from sport bikes to cars and I certainly like the responsive handling.
 
  #5  
Old 06-29-2010 | 08:52 PM
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low hp will let you focus on driver skill
 
  #6  
Old 06-29-2010 | 08:59 PM
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aaronvb
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I don't have a regular MC, but I've read multiple times on this forum that a CAI on a justa will help the most.
 
  #7  
Old 06-29-2010 | 10:34 PM
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BensMini
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Don't worry about the power, just keep your foot in it and it will go plenty fast enough. Put some good rubber on it and a 22mm rear sway bar on it and go play in the corners with anyone.
 
  #8  
Old 06-29-2010 | 11:03 PM
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Thanks for all the input everyone! I'll probably start with the CAI and focus on the handling. I've probably done enough haulin' *** in a straight line for one lifetime anyway Took the Cooper out to some twisties I like to take the bike on, and was really surprised at how well it carved the corners. Feels a lot safer too.. no leaning! :D
 
  #9  
Old 06-30-2010 | 09:31 AM
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jtbrown
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Having been in the Mini fold for just a few weeks now myself, I've been reading up on this topic. For a 'Justa' Cooper, CAI and exhaust seem to be the main items suggested. If you're looking for throttle response (and willing to spend a bit more) I've read some good things about the Sprint Booster (electronics add-on).

Take a look through the vendors list here at NAM and you can find several performance part suppliers to give you some ideas about what is available - most of it is geared towards the S crowd but there are some options out there for a Justa Cooper.
 
  #10  
Old 06-30-2010 | 09:35 AM
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Cool, I'll check out that Sprint Booster. Throttle response is definitely something I'd like to improve if possible. I can live without the HP and top speed, but anything that will make it just a bit livelier is going to be a worthwhile investment.

My bike has about the same HP (110.) and weighs ~400lb, but I certainly never use the top gear on it.
 
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