While the original Golf was often considered to be the first sporty hatchback in the world, readers often forget about the original car that is a stalwart in the segment: the Mini Cooper. Once designed to be the go-to car for the normal people, Mini Coopers have a veritable racing pedigree and history in major championships such as the Monte Carlo Rally, RAC Rally, and the 100 Lakes Rally.
All those years of extensive racing and experience have now been funneled into a car that is unlike any other sporty hatchback in the market. To get a better idea about what the car is all about, here is an in-depth review by News 24.
Specs and Performance
The Mini Cooper Convertible S is powered by a 1998cc, 4-cylinder inline engine, 4 valves per cylinder with DOHC and turbocharger. The max power output of the vehicle is around 189 bhp @ 5000 rpm, and a peak torque output of 280 Nm @ 1250 rpm. Beyond that, the 7-speed DCT further adds to the hatchback’s capability to accelerate at a relentless pace. The car is currently priced at Rs 51.82 lakh.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | 2.0 Petrol Engine |
| Engine Displacement | 1998 cc, 4 Cylinders Inline, 4 Valves/Cylinder, DOHC |
| Turbocharger/Supercharger | Turbocharged |
| Fuel Type | Petrol |
| E20 Compatibility | Yes |
| Max Power | 189 bhp @ 5000 rpm |
| Max Torque | 280 Nm @ 1250 rpm |
| Emission Standard | BS 6 |
| Acceleration (0-100 km/h) | 7.1 seconds (claimed) |
| Top Speed | 230 km/h |
| Mileage | ARAI: 16.3 kmpl |
| Idle Start/Stop | No |
| Driving Range | 719 km |
| Drivetrain | FWD |
| Transmission | Automatic (DCT) – 7 Gears |
This time around Mini has innovated the roof of the convertible S, which now operates in a new 3 in 1 way. Its mechanism fully opens in 20 seconds flat even when driving speeds or up to 30km/h and it also has a sun roof mode that opens the roof by 40cm to let the sun shine in.
To ensure that the vehicle keeps the driver safe even during the most spirited drives the car has been equipped with collision warning, lane departure warning, lane change warning, crossing traffic warning and an exit warning as well.
Comparison between Golf GTI and Mini cooper S
| Specification | Mini Cooper S Convertible | Volkswagen Golf Gti |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Type | 2.0 Petrol Engine | 1984 cc Turbocharged |
| Displacement | 1998 cc, 4 Cylinders Inline, 4 Valves/Cylinder, DOHC | 1984 cc |
| Turbocharger / Supercharger | Turbocharged | Turbocharged |
| Fuel Type | Petrol | Petrol |
| E20 Compatibility | Yes | – |
| Max Power | 189 bhp @ 5000 rpm | 261 bhp |
| Max Torque | 280 Nm @ 1250 rpm | 370 Nm |
| Transmission | Automatic (DCT) – 7 Gears | Automatic (DCT) |
| Acceleration (0-100 km/h) | 7.1 seconds (claimed) | – |
| Emission Standard | BS 6 | – |
