Uploaded February 2025 | Updated September 2026, 8 hours ago

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In this video I discuss the best mods for a 1st gen Cooper S. All was done to produce a vehicle that is a comfortable daily driver that still allows the user to enjoy the car without excessive power that cannot be realized on a daily commute. These mods total about $7500 for parts and assumes you do all the labor/install yourself as I enjoy doing. This results in a car that is "JCW OEM+" - a notch or two better than a stock John Cooper Works R53. For reference, that car has 210 crank hp, mine has 225. For reference, a stock Cooper S has 168 crank hp. With 225 crank hp, my car has +32% when compared to stock.

Overview:

POWER & DRIVETRAIN MODS
• Alta 15% supercharger reduction pulley
• SS DDM Intake & air filter element
• Stratmosphere exhaust
• Bosch 380cc fuel injectors
• Custom tune by Adrian C
• Helix short shift adapter - 27% reduction
• Roar pedal controller

HANDLING & BRAKING MODS
• WMW Strut bar
• H&R Lowering Springs
• Alta Rear Sway Bar 22mm
• Alta Adjustable Rear Control Arms
• Koni Yellow Adjustable Shocks/Struts
• R56 front brake upgrade
• SS Lines & blue fluid flush
• ECS Red Stuff Pads

SAFETY/FUTURE PROOFING MODS
• ATI Dampener
• SS Coolant Tank
• WMW strut bar plates
• Fumoto Oil valve

OTHER
• Grom Bluetooth
• Weather Tech Mats
• Side “Cooper S” vinyl
• Door handle/gas cap covers
• Window tint