Following the success of the first-generation R53 Cooper S, which went on sale a year after the One and Cooper in 2002, MINI thankfully didn’t make buyers wait as long for its replacement, as it was one of the first models available from November 2006 UK launch. As with the standard R56, the fastest second-generation MINI (well, until the John Cooper Works came along later), was more of a clever rework than a new model. Outside, legislation dictated an 18mm taller shoulder line, but this MINI is also 60mm longer, equalling an extra 10-litres of boot space. The biggest change was under the bonnet, as the supercharged Tritec 1.6-litre petrol was replaced by a turbocharged version of the Peugeot/ Citroen(PSA)-supplied ‘Prince’ N14 1.6-litre engine. At launch, the Cooper S boasted 175hp and up to 192lb ft of torque, thanks to the clever ‘overboost’ function, where for a short period the turbo boosts above normal pressure. The result was acceleration to 62mph that took just 7.1 seconds. Yet, despite the performance, features such as the BMW VANOS system
