Mini cooper s
This is my Mini Cooper S.
Cooper S
Model
Bayswater
Edition
1.6l Man.
Engine
184hp
Power
2012
Poduction
Upgrades to my Mini Cooper S.
KW V2 “Inox Line”
After enjoying three years of spirited driving with H&R Lowering Springs, it was high time to take my Mini to the next level. I upgraded it with the KW V2 “Inox Line” suspension and it’s been a game-changer! Being able to adjust the ride height and rebound means I can dial it in perfectly for those twisty mountain roads I love to drive. It’s made the whole driving experience much sharper and more enjoyable.
Lowering the car and fine-tuning the suspension turned my Mini into a true cornering machine. It seriously feels like driving a Go-Kart when I’m tackling tight bends! The extra agility and stability really shine on those alpine passes in Austria. Plus, with its rust-resistant stainless steel construction, the KW V2 “Inox Line” holds up perfectly through snowy winters and tough conditions!
O.Z. Formula HLT Grigio Corsa
To unlock the full potential of the KW suspension, I needed a set of wheels with the right specs—specifically a lower offset of ET35. I’ve always had a soft spot for the OZ Formula HLT, and finally seeing them on the Mini feels just right. In Grigio Corsa, the silver finish gives the car a cleaner, more classic look.
Beyond looks, these wheels are seriously impressive. Thanks to OZ’s High Light Technology (HLT), they weigh only about 7.5 kg each in this 17″ spec (7.5Jx17 ET35, 4×100), which helps reduce unsprung weight and gives the handling a noticeably sharper, more responsive feel. And maybe it’s just me, but the whole setup gives off a fun, almost toy-like vibe. It reminds me of a high-end RC car or one of those Carrera track racers I used to play with. Lightweight, nimble, and full of character!
Toyo Tires Proxes TR1
Of course, the perfect wheels deserve the right tyres—and the Toyo Tires Proxes TR1 in 215/40R17 87W complete the setup. They strike just the right balance between grip and feedback, making them a great match for spirited drives on winding mountain roads.
They work especially well with the lightweight OZ wheels, delivering sharp steering response and confidence through tight bends. The reinforced shoulders add extra grip where it counts, and even in unpredictable alpine weather, the TR1s hold their line with ease.
Paired with the KW V2 “Inox Line” suspension and the OZ Formula HLTs, the Proxes TR1 make my Mini Cooper S feel planted, responsive, and ready for every twist the mountains throw at it.
Aluminium Oil Filter Housing
A crucial metric for sporty driving is oil temperature. All the more annoying that the Mini Cooper S doesn’t present this or other important metrics. The absence of oil temperature information can be a significant concern for sporty driving. Additionally, the original plastic oil filter housing can be prone to issues.
To address this, I’ve chosen to replace it with an aluminium oil filter housing equipped with an oil temperature sensor. The location of the sensor ensures accurate readings as the oil circulates through the filter.
Prosport 2-in-1 Temperature & Boost gauge
The ideal instrument for monitoring oil temperature comes in the form of the exclusive Prosport 2-in-1 Series. This series is renowned for its top-notch craftsmanship. It offers the flexibility to measure either oil or water temperature accurately, making it a versatile choice. What’s more, it provides the capability to gauge turbocharger boost pressure.
The sensors in this series are incredibly precise, making them suitable for professional applications. Depending on the cable configuration, the display can illuminate in either Amber or White, aligning with the Mini’s orange-themed dashboard. Power is sourced from the 12V cigarette lighter socket.
