The Mini, Tuned & Tweaked to Admirable Effect

The German tuner, AC Schnitzer has been cutting and stitching changes all over the Mini John Cooper Works to admirable effect. Most noticeably in the increase of power which has been tuned from 223hp to 261hp. This top of the line model has not been the subject of all the attention either, as other more standard models have also seen an increase in power, the Mini Cooper has gone from 134 hp to 168 hp, while the S model started at 189hp and now boasts 232 hp.

Each of these upgraded Minis have also been given new exhaust systems that have the available option for a “track mode” valve control, that produces excellent sound as you let the engine rip. New suspension has also been incorporated so that these versions of the Mini masterfully keep their balance as they round corners. Polishing off the job undoubtedly are the set of AC1 BiColor or Anthracite 19-inch alloy wheels which are to be available in the Hatch, Clubman and the Cabriolet.

Of course the more noticeable tweaks are on the exterior detailing where each of the models has a distinct or more bespoke look and feel. The Aachen based tuners installed an aerodynamically enhanced front spoiler. However the look is polished off with the rear “Technology & Design” sticker, rear skirt film and a conspicuous red and yellow paint job, which gives it an undeniably charismatic character, that we rather like.