2004 AC Schnitzer Cooper S Convertible
With the introduction of the MINI Convertible the range is now complete, and for AC Schnitzer the logical consequence was to offer for all MINI models – either Convertible or hard top – a special accessories range which leaves nothing to be desired.
The standard engine of the MINI Cooper S which thanks to compressor technology already delivers a considerable 125 kW / 170 HP, has been given a substantial boost by the AC Schnitzer engineers who have optimized the compressor ratios and at the same time adapted the Control Unit Program. After the AC Schnitzer treatment, the 1.6 l power plant delivers a stately 142 kW / 193 HP at 7000 rpm. In this guise, the MINI Cooper S by AC Schnitzer covers the 0 – 100 km/h sprint in just 7.0 seconds, and has a top speed of 235 km/h.
To improve response, the performance upgrade is offered in conjunction with the AC Schnitzer sports rear silencer made completely of stainless steel with chromed racing tailpipe trim and the corresponding engine highlights in stainless steel.
Naturally conversion to the AC Schnitzer rear silencer is recommended even without the engine upgrades. But the customer faces a difficult choice. For both the MINI One and the MINI Cooper there are two variants available: a twin exhaust system with two oval tailpipes in right/left combination or the single oval tailpipe design. The third variant is reserved for the MINI Cooper S: a sports tailpipe in centre positioning, in the design of the AC Schnitzer Racing tailpipe trim. The AC Schnitzer rear skirt not only integrates the silencer but at the same time gives the MINIs (except the MINI One D) a far more powerful look.
Also available for the front is a complete skirt, which thanks to the generously dimensioned front grille with chrome frame gives the MINIs a bright new facial expression. But the aerodynamic conversion is not just an aesthetic improvement. Made from high quality PU-Rim, it gives improved downforce and is easy for paint and fit. The exterior program is completed by the designer stripes and the AC Schnitzer logo Technology & Design, available in white or black or, for the Cooper S, with a red S.
The driving dynamics of all MINI models are further improved by suspension components which lower the vehicle by around 30 mm in conjunction with the AC Schnitzer Type I alloy wheels in 7.5J x 17 with tyres 215/40 R 17.
For all MINI models, a height-adjustable racing suspension is available together with suspension spring kits for pure lowering. The suspension concept is completed for the Cooper S variants by the AC Schnitzer aluminium strut brace for the front which further stabilizes the front end on tight corners or sudden swerve manoeuvres.
The famous dot on the i comes from the interior components such as e.g. the aluminium pedal sets with matching foot rest cover, the aluminium gear knob and the aluminium handbrake handle. Last but not least, special floor mats are available with a 2-colour embroidered AC Schnitzer Technology & Design logo.
Story by AC Schnitzer , edited by Supercars.net
In Detail
engine | Supercharged Inline-4 |
position | Front Transverse |
aspiration | Supercharged |
valvetrain | 4 Valves / Cyl |
displacement | 1598 cc / 97.5 in³ |
bore | 85.8 mm / 3.38 in |
stroke | 77 mm / 3.03 in |
compression | 8.3:1 |
power | 143.9 kw / 193 bhp @ 7000 rpm |
specific output | 120.78 bhp per litre |
bhp/weight | 169.3 bhp per tonne |
torque | 220 nm / 162.3 ft lbs @ 4000 rpm |
body / frame | Unit Steel |
driven wheels | Front Engine / FWD |
front tires | 215/40 R 17 |
rear tires | 215/40 R 17 |
front brakes | Vented Discs w/ABS, EBD |
f brake size | x 276 mm / x 10.9 in |
rear brakes | Discs w/ABS, EBD |
r brake size | x 259 mm / x 10.2 in |
front wheels | F 43.2 x 19.0 cm / 17 x 7.5 in |
rear wheels | R 43.2 x 19.0 cm / 17 x 7.5 in |
steering | Electro-Hydraulic Steering |
f suspension | MacPherson Struts w/Anti-Roll Bar |
r suspension | Multi-Link Z-Axle w/Anti-Roll Bar |
curb weight | 1140 kg / 2513 lbs |
wheelbase | 2467 mm / 97.1 in |
front track | 1458 mm / 57.4 in |
rear track | 1560 mm / 61.4 in |
length | 3626 mm / 142.8 in |
width | 1925 mm / 75.8 in |
height | 1416 mm / 55.7 in |
transmission | R65 5C39 Getrag 6-Speed Manual |
gear ratios | 4.167:1, 2.620:1, 1.970:1, 1.605:1, 1.335:1, 1.083:1, :1 |
top speed | ~215.7 kph / 134.0 mph |
0 – 60 mph | ~6.9 seconds |