The Mini Cooper S Coupe JCW Was the Most Exciting Mini Ever

[@markpalma2]

The evolution of Doug - Dirty knees (from kneeling in car parking lots) -> A knee pad ( to keep the knees clean and protected ) -> an office chair from the Cars and Bids space.

[@purwantiallan5089]

It looks cool though.

[@jtbDDOepMNNVIpk]

Daddy Doug is getting old just like the rest of us

[@kylewhisman]

What's next? a studio, a desk an and hot blonde to his right Cough Tyler

[@kina8005]

Why not a stool, this chair looks ridiculous

[@lephtovermeet]

That's a lawn chair. Him throwing balls for his kids to catch. I was looking for this comment tho.

[@knightrides6034]

2 quirks Doug missed: If you hold the ambient lighting switch, it will continue to gradually scroll through the colours by itself. Also there's a hidden space above the glove box between the 2 vents, some people own the car for years without ever knowing it's there

[@zigforjustice]

Yeah, surprised those were missed, but goes to show you how 'hidden' that compartment is :D

[@lenhister]

@@zigforjustice Surprised? He often misses the quirkiest things about the vehicles he reviews.

[@JK-g62]

This is NOT the most exciting MINI...the 2006 GP1 ... or or 2013 GP2 ... or the GP3 is the most exciting MINIs ever made. And they have all the performance to back it up. They are also extremely rare throughout the world...as MINI made less than 5k of each model of them. I know...i own one! 🏁😁

[@rjs2005]

I had my Clubman S for a little over a year before I discovered that storage space. I suppose I could've opened my owner's manual, but what's the fun in that?

[@87redarrow]

He also missed the cut out in the headliner

[@FZ6Lucas]

You know it’s cool because it wears its baseball cap backwards 😎

[@HiThere619]

“because it wears it is baseball cap” 🤦🏻‍♂️

[@mr.keptitreal]

I can never unsee that now lol.

[@FZ6Lucas]

@@HiThere619 “Its” can also be used as a possessive before a noun.

[@nicholasspecialmusic]

@@FZ6Lucasthat is so 100% wrong. That is the absolute opposite of correct.

[@FZ6Lucas]

@@nicholasspecialmusic try again 🤷

[@KNRS927]

Doug discussing all the versions of the car. Mini Clubman: Am I a joke to you?

[@ajicycles]

Mini Clubvan: 😢

[@roywhiteo5]

How about the mini with the giant red bull can on top?

[@GaryKetchum808]

Forgot the Clubman, and the Paceman. Two ultra quirky Mini's. Nevermind, it just sounds weird how he says Pace Man.

[@tedadamgreen]

@@roywhiteo5I saw one just a few days ago!!

[@injustifiiable]

lolll I was thinking the same thing...

[@Chicken_4_Dayz]

Missed my favorite quirk, the hidden glove box! If you press the panel between the two passenger AC vents, it pops oven and reveals a second storage area.

[@lujxiv8730]

This thing saved me going to jail

[@tragicallywhiteguy]

Yup, He didn’t find the ‘smugglers bin’. The Trip Computer and radio controls / display are straight out of the previous gen BMW 3er parts bin. He also missed the totally pointless ’sport’ button that adds stupid random pops to the exhaust sound. Lastly, the reason these didn’t sell well is that they were -really- overpriced when new.

[@Alejandro_BoniIIa]

It’s perfect for hotdogs

[@chrissyboy7047]

Wasnt standard in all Minis. Depended on options

[@AWildCarAppeared]

Had to option it, mine doesn't have one :(

[@BlazeORenegado]

This Mini's bodystyle is really wacky, but I honestly loved it. After all, I love weird wacky cars like these. Plus, a manual transmission, 208 hp and a coupe bodystyle, all of these fused on a Mini? That's just so cool!

[@jeffk464]

Nope, the mini should look like an extra small hot hatch, anything else is unacceptable.

[@Win7ermu7e]

It's looks like it has a backwards ballcap on and I can't get that out of my head.

[@mrrakalanov]

FWD...

[@pex_the_unalivedrunk6785]

It looks like a Smurf...and that's plus cool points! 👍🏻

[@pex_the_unalivedrunk6785]

​​​@@mrrakalanov FWD can be a lot of fun, and people legit race that class on circuits and in rally races, sometimes a powerful RWD car is just too much for smaller tracks and roads. The Mini Cooper, the Hyundai Tiburon, Honda Civic type R, and one other one I'm forgetting at the moment, have been staples in motor vehicle racing for awhile....ever play any Gran Turismo? 🤣

[@Phantosome]

My first car was a 2003 Mini Cooper S, red with white stripes. It always had something wrong, it was high mileage, and it left me stranded several times. I would drive it again in a heartbeat. Endless fun.

[@Sube-Tube]

I don't know, I think it leaving you stranded ends the fun

[@Phantosome]

Funny enough, that was because the previous owner used it as a tow car behind an RV and installed a twist off battery terminal to disconnect before towing. Replaced that and it was okay. :)

[@BrennanLetkeman]

I had an 06 S with the 6 speed stick and same - it was on a tow truck more often than not, but gosh I loved and miss that thing. the supercharger whine, the steering, I somehow fit a whole BBQ in the back hatch once. it was great

[@memertmemes2586]

@SplinterCellRocks Well a lot of chrysler in there and other stuff.

[@spook5756]

Battered wife syndrome.

[@KITT089]

these were awesome little cars. when i was working at a Mini Dealer in NH, we got a custom ordered Cooper, it was the Normal Hatch back, a JCW edition but also had GP badges on it. no back seat, factory roll cage, made more power, red accents everywhere Unique wheels only for the GP model, and a larger wing on the back. i think you’d like that one more than the coupe.

[@chrissyboy7047]

Thats not a custom car but rather just a 'regular' GP. Dont think they had any options. You just bought a GP and they were all the same colour etc. They made one in all 3 revisions of the Mini as in GP1, GP2 and GP3

[@chrissyboy7047]

@@OneIssueVoter i think you replied on the wrong thread mate

[@krudmuphinstudioz]

@@OneIssueVoter Who was asking?

[@bwofficial1776]

@@krudmuphinstudioz Me. I accidentally deleted my first comment.

[@Sube-Tube]

I didn't think NH would have a big enough market for that. Had to be Nashua or some other city near mass

[@aidanbotham442]

As someone who has rebuilt 2 of these now, its worth noting that the 2nd gen minis (07-13) are quite a handful if you aren't mechanically inclined. This one is coming up on needing a timing chain, the thermostat housing will probably crack, the valves will need blasting, the waterpump will need to be swapped to metal, etc. That being said, if you're willing to buy the specialty BMW tools and wrench on them, they're SUPER fun to drive, even stock ones like this. (Also, with it only being driven 200 miles in 3 years... a bit strange and might have some gremlins come along with that, these cars are very picky!)

[@hamiltonhoover792]

Has somebody that just replaced the thermostat water pump crossover pipe from the water pump and both control arms. To my 07 s I second all what you said

[@Sube-Tube]

Swapped to metal? ITS NOT METAL FROM THE FACTORY?

[@RealAvus]

everyone should read this comment. 1st and 2nd gen Mini that use PRINCE engine are really bad in reliability. That was the reason why they were at the BOTTOM of any reliability list for decade. 3rd gen Mini get noticeable better in reliability once they use everything BMW (engine/transmission/FWD/AWD). 3rd gen FWD Mini are basically BMW 1 series and AWD are basically X1.

[@aidanbotham442]

@@Sube-Tube Haha nope its a plastic housing, I think bmw eventually redesigned it to be all metal. They're only like $30 to replace, but a few hours of labor to get to it. Theres lots of annoying plastic in the engine bays, the intake tube to turbo also cracks all the time, and the boost recirc valve is a rubber diaphragm that cracks and has to be upgraded to a piston.

[@aidanbotham442]

@@RealAvus 1st gen used a chrysler motor that has held up decently well, their main problem is that those cars are all 20 years old so they're dying out. The 07-10 (and up to 12 on JCW iirc) had the notorious N14 model that is literally a time bomb. The 11-13 had the N18 (including this JCW) that is by no means "reliable" but it will "reliably fail" at certain milestones instead of sporadically out of nowhere

[@spenym14]

When I was younger, my aunt had a Mini Roadster the S version with a manual. I remember going in a couple of times, and it made me start to like mini. I thought the active spoiler was so cool. I’ve got a soft spot for both the roadster and the coupe.

[@purwantiallan5089]

Mini Roadster has the same handling characteristics as the Miata RS.

[@jono6379]

The coupé with a toupée 😂

[@purwantiallan5089]

More like Mini Cooper Cabriolet.😂

[@maxpoweroverdrive]

toupée in hindi is actually called hat.

[@DarkKnightwing75]

I did not like these when they first came out, years later I bought one as my first car and I absolutely love it, I love the styling and I love the drive, it’s only a Cooper but it has the JCW kit and wheels from the factory and it’s a fantastic little car, I’m so attached to it. It doesn’t matter what I’ve driven that day, when I get into my Mini I’m never disappointed, glad to see it finally getting some love and recognition!

[@n3er0o]

The coupe actually has 30.409 units built and the Paceman 42.376. The Roadster was the rarest RXX car with 26.818 units. Exact production numbers were released in 2016.

[@RustiP09]

Actually, the central exhaust is found in the cooper s and jcw hatch, it is not exclusive to the coupe. Also, the trunk space is significantly bigger than in the hatch, due to absence of the rear seats.

[@purwantiallan5089]

The Cooper JCW lacks the rear seats.

[@RustiP09]

@@purwantiallan5089 Not true, it has. From the two door hatch lineup, the cooper GP has no rear seats, but that is a limited edition.

[@alexnewell8580]

Additional quirk with the ambient light of this era of mini. if you hold down the switch for an arbitrary amount of time. (for it to cycle through once) the colors will gradually keep changing until the switch is pressed again.

[@chrisdafurz]

had an R56 mini for 5 years and never knew this 😢

[@SummerLorenzsonn]

if you don't have your coupe in disco mode you're not maximizing your fun

[@coalieroller5663]

only on LCI models

[@purwantiallan5089]

​@@chrisdafurzMini Cooper Type R56?

[@purwantiallan5089]

​@@coalieroller5663why only on LCI models?

[@DaleDriven]

My buddy got a jcw coupe in college and he hated driving so I would always drove it for him. It’s my favorite modern mini and solidified my love for mini. It’s such an amazing drivers car. He had a remote for his exhaust valve too which made it so cool. I definitely would get one.

[@pazzazblue9201]

Thank you Doug for reviewing every car not just the expensive ones. Thanks for being a real one 👊

[@carlossanchez-wk5yi]

I have had a 2012 R58 JCW Coupe manual since 2014 (I'm the 2nd owner) and I have not had any significant mechanical problems with it. Maybe it is because I do not track it or because it gets yearly serviced (currenlty has 36k miles) and detailed. So, I do not understand the comments about the crappy engines and how much trouble the car would give you, I was very close to sell her this year as I was looking for a 991.1 but decided to keep MINI too as it's as unique and fun as other, much more expensive, cars. 12 years of ownership and I LOVE it.

[@mattstilwell1491]

Love my Coupe!! I've had it a little over a year, and I don't think I'll ever get rid of it. It does full grocery hauls with ease, weekend trips are not a problem, curvy roads are the best, and gets 35+ mpg. Oh, and that magical 3rd pedal. Thanks for covering this little beauty, Doug!

[@DriftEmigrant]

Does it have LSD ?

[@mattstilwell1491]

@DriftEmigrant honestly, I don't know. If you're wondering about torque steer or wandering, it's not really existent. If it is, I've not noticed it. It pulls easily, and in a straight line.

[@josephfetz1748]

A few things. The roof of the coupe was referred to as the "helmet" by corporate, salespeople, and owners (not the backwards baseball cap). The coupe and Roadster (the convertible) are not on the same platform at all even if they look similar; the coupe was on the 3-part modular structure (which gave perfect 50/50 weight distribution), the coupe just looked cool, but was very lop-sided and had a lot of flex. Lastly, the ambient lighting toggle switch can be held until it blinks 3 times (roughly 5-8 seconds), which puts the ambient lighting into "disco mode", which causes the ambient lighting to co continuously and seamlessly cycle through all of the colors. The N-series motors used in the MINIs of the time (N14 through N18), were absolutely horrible; MINIs have been using the B-series motors since 2014 (depending on model), and these are absolutely fantastic (B38 and B48). It is always interesting to me that as MINIs became better cars generally, their sales numbers continue to decline.

[@itsjaypee]

I own a F56 Cooper S with the B48 and love it. They’re still quite popular in Switzerland although nothing compared to the clubman and countryman. The previous gens (R53 & R56) are less usable and slower but actually a bit more fun to drive with more feedback through the chassis and steering.

[@itsjaypee]

But yes the B48 is far superior to the previous Peugeot-developed turbo 1.6 of the R56 and (Chrysler-developed I think) supercharged 1.6 of the R53. In terms of noise though, they’re pretty closely matched - all sound good.

[@josephfetz1748]

@@itsjaypee I have a 2017 JCW HT that I bought new (when I sold MINIs). I still love the 1st generation HT because of the feel of the shifter and that it's like driving a roller skate on the road (you feel everything). But yes, my JCW is a far better car overall. I left the brand because it is my opinion that it was a mistake for BMW to try to take the MINI brand upmarket (almost all of my customers left the brand when this happened). The proof is in the pudding: in 2015 MINI was selling over 50k units in the US per year, now they are doing just over 20k per year.

[@josephfetz1748]

@@itsjaypee the Chrysler-designed motor was in the R53, not the R56. It was a Chrysler design, built in Brazil, and put into and English car. I hated this motor. The R56 used the "prince" motor, which was designed by BMW and Peugeot, and built by Peugeot. It wasn't horrible in terms of output and fuel economy, but it had the common timing chain issues (i.e. the "death rattle"). From 2013 and onward, it was a great motor for a 1.6 turbo. But yeah, the B-series motors (and their S variants) are great and are probably the best modern motor series ever made by BMW. Certainly the best motors ever put into a MINI.

[@itsjaypee]

​@@josephfetz1748 Yes, that's what I wrote... Thanks for the info though. Had forgotten the N14-18 were co-developed with BMW. They also drink a sh** ton of oil haha. Shame, because they're quite fun, rev-happy engines. Yes, I can see that no one is considering them in the US anymore. I guess that's where the US and EU markets diverge, because we've still got a big (albeit shrinking) market for hot hatches (Audi RS3, BMW M135i, Hyundai I30N, Golf GTI/R, GR Yaris, 208 GTI, Megane RS, Leon Cupra, etc..). Unfortunately, buyers now expect small cars to have all kinds of tech & comfort features, that used to only exist in much larger and more expensive cars. I believe the MINI fell victim to that trend too... I know that, historically at least, Americans associate price to size. So maybe that's why a high-end MINI makes less sense over the other side of the pond :)

[@WallsDanny]

Nice 9:30 club shirt ! Loved that venue when I lived near DC ! Especially the original location from the 90’s ❤

[@radioactivezeek4159]

Super venue. Our first kid had a 9:30 Club onesie.

[@noboringcars1227]

I had a 2013 JCW Coupe and I miss it still. If you want a car that is unique, gets lots of comments and is relatively easy to operate whether on the street or the track, this is it. Nothing like it since.

[@rump438]

I almost, so close, almost bought one of these for my first car (i assume it needed a lot of work in retrospect cuz it was way too cheap). Was black and red, it was beautiful. I've always had a weird soft spot for minis.

[@TimSlee1]

Same for me except I almost got the regular 2004 Mini Cooper on a Facebook Market Place listing, someone beat me to it though.

[@purwantiallan5089]

​@@TimSlee1the 2004 Cooper surprisingly more reliable.

[@rump438]

@@TimSlee1 ah see I was convinced just by practicality, as good as these are I needed something just a smidge bigger, opted for a corolla, at least then I wont have to replace it for another decade. shes a 2015 and still running perfect.

[@TimSlee1]

True, they're simpler.@@purwantiallan5089

[@aalqadaffi]

Wow, Nice 9:30 Club shirt! Didn't expect to see that.

[@topdog19945]

It's a shame these, along with the convertible versions, were discontinued. I loved the style of these.

[@automation7295]

@@Brian_Eugene_Lee These older MINI bodystyles would kinda look weird with BMW logos.

[@grahamstefaan]

Did you buy it then?? We know the answer.

[@sarkaranish]

Doug, you forgot about the rarest mini of them all.. the CLUBVAN!!

[@josephmaiewski5953]

And he reviewed one here a few years ago!

[@sarkaranish]

@@josephmaiewski5953 i was hoping someone remembered!

[@maureraerialproductions7739]

Thank you Doug for your fantastic review of the R58 Mini Coupe JCW. Yes, I prefer the coupe because I owned an R56 hatchback JCW and now the R58 JCW coupe, and the reason is that the coupe is a much better car to drive fast on the German Autobahn, with 230 km/h or even up to the top speed of 250 km/h, and it is completely stable... the cornering speed is also significantly higher. No question, the Mini Coupe JCW is my choice over the hatchback.

[@Elizabeth-hv4ho]

I've owned two of these (an S auto and a JCW 6m). Be very careful with the emission system. Our second one was mechanically totaled with 42K miles. Super fun to drive and comfortable inside. Seems super big relative to my current MX-5. OTOH, the Mazda starts up every time. My favorite quirk was it's little backfire burble.

[@tylercouture216]

care to elaborate on why dang

[@watercannonscollaboration2281]

I like how Doug emphasizes how the different models of Mini comes with a manual, he probably still needed to wash the bad taste of the Z Nismo from the last video

[@mikezerker6925]

14:23 I LOVE those soft clicking turn signals! Both my cars have them! Best thing ever!!

[@martinbiering3094]

I had the roadster back than together with my girlfriend, was a fantastic car. Looked much better than the coupe with the same driving experience… nice crackling exhaust tone, great Bose sound system, great navigation system… never saw another mini roadster in my city. It was extremely rare. The rear spoiler was always extended. 😊 Miss this thing every day!

[@kenlykkeslett7501]

Too bad you can't "activate" the spoiler to be up at all times. So annoying that it goes down by itself whenever you dip below 62 km/h. Or did you have a workaround?

[@martinbiering3094]

I swear it keep the up position after an software update. @@kenlykkeslett7501 From the beginning it goes down by itself as you said, but they fixed or broken it later... mine stayed in the up position all the time.

[@reds2312]

came to say the same thing!!😁 I had a JCW roadster.. red and black stripes. Her name was Missy 🤣 I’ve never seen another one anywhere either.

[@Adam-xe5xm]

@@kenlykkeslett7501 You can leave it up. Theres a button for it in the centre console

[@kenlykkeslett7501]

@@Adam-xe5xm Yeah? In mine it just goes down again automatically whenever I slow down

[@Tech-bv9oj]

For a mini, this has got to be the best looking modern version I've seen.

[@blakeblundell9001]

You actually could get it in a solid color with the roof, body, with no stripe. I’ve got an all black one, which is the best color for them

[@chrissyboy7047]

Was thinking the same. You could get a matching roof as long as the body was black too. Lol. I have an all black hatch which is also quite rare it would seem as most have different colour roofs as well as stripes etc which I also dont have

[@2014105]

I came to comment the same thing! I have the same thing!

[@JFreshSteez]

i used to own a 2013 Mini Cooper S Coupé (black roof, silver body) in automatic for 2 years back in 2020. i drove it everywhere from Niagara Falls to NYC to Pennsylvania, i was always on the road. it was my 6th car, my favourite car & the best car i ever owned until i lost it in a car accident. i got sideswiped by a semi truck driver who didn’t see me in his blind spot, bounced off, hit a curb and went straight into an electricity pole. i was a minute away from my old job. that accident left me with a fractured wrist & a fractured lower lumbar but it could’ve been worst, that car saved my life. this car is SOLID. it also has a fuel cut off system which prevents a fire from starting after a head on impact… which saved me from getting burned since i was stuck in the car, firefighters had to used jaws of life to carry me out. the 10 HK speaker system was amazing, the rear wing was such a flex & the pops/crackles in sport mode were very addicting. it was also the first car i changed spark plugs & battery by myself lol. after recovering from the crash, i got a 2015 Nissan Juke NISMO in blade silver. i replaced the OEM antenna with a short stubby antenna that was on my Mini & i kept the right S fender badge. i also had that car for 2 years. i traded the Juke NISMO last year, now im in a 2015 BMW-Sport 428i GranCoupé in brilliant silver metallic, the first car im modifying & the first car i will be tuning. i already have a bunch of mods ready to be installed, including a M-Performance exhaust. it will be a tribute to my legendary Cooper S Coupé 🥲 thank you Doug for an amazing review. this one hit an onion nerve 😪🔥

[@johnbertram]

I recently had a Clubman of this generation - great little car!

[@craigshriver4953]

Hey Doug and all his readers, I have one of these from 2013, JCW, but it is an automatic with manual mode and paddle shifters. Just a gem of a fun car to drive in all respects. The grip around corners is outstanding. 30 MPG average.

[@adriaanserrao2016]

The biggest problem with this car is the Peugeot engine, the f series after these are much more reliable.

[@automation7295]

I find it funny that MINI has Peugeot engine, yet Peugeot left USA during late 1980's or early 1990's

[@RyanBerich-u1w]

The first generation was the most reliable.

[@purwantiallan5089]

​@@automation7295MINI has Peugeot Special engines?

[@purwantiallan5089]

​@@RyanBerich-u1wthe 1968 Mini Cooper 1.3i?

[@RyanBerich-u1w]

@@purwantiallan5089 Unfortunately I did not have the privilege of owning a 1960s Mini. I was referring to the 2002 to 2006 first generation of the MINI return. That generation had excellent reliability. Especially the later manual cars.

[@carcreationsyt]

One of the best MINIs for sure! Thanks for reviewing our favourite brand Doug!

[@carlosconesa]

I love the Paceman’s design and proportions.

[@jeepgibby]

Doug with his mini headlight quirk. Just like the McLaren infotainment helmet guy. Its a staple of the whole show

[@Clemofant]

My dad had this. As a Playboy edition… was black and gold, really fun to drive

[@Scotty_in_Ohio]

But he could only get on Playmate (comfortably) in it at a time so he sold it.....

[@Duaneoca]

First Gen mini (R53) owner here. Thank you for acknowledging what is cool about Minis. Not the fastest car out there. Certainly different from a styling perspective, but absolutely a blast to drive. I was never a fan of the coupe, for exactly the reasons you specified. Weird styling, and missing the hot hatch practicality of the original mini.

[@SummerLorenzsonn]

Trading in my 2012 Coupe next week. I love my stupid backwards baseball cap car, but a 12 year old Mini is tempting fate a bit too much for my liking. Probably going to regret it, it's been nothing but absolute fun.

[@sidhuag1062]

It's not stupid it's cute

[@mikevale3620]

My JCW Cooper S is 20 years old this November.

[@Robert-G]

still have mine, I found a BMW shop in Munich who have some guys who’re into those Minis and they’ve been taking good care of it for the last 10y. It spoiled me in many ways and makes it very hard to find a replacement…

[@AVOWIRENEWS]

Wow, the Mini Cooper S Coupe JCW sounds absolutely thrilling! It's always amazing to see how car manufacturers like Mini push the boundaries with their designs and performance. The JCW, standing for John Cooper Works, hints at a high-performance vehicle that's both fun to drive and stylish. Mini Coopers have a unique charm, combining classic design with modern technology. It must be exhilarating to experience the blend of agility and power in such a compact car. The idea of zipping around town in a vehicle that combines such heritage with performance is genuinely exciting! 🚗💨✨

[@man_on_wheelz]

To this day the Mini Cooper Clubman S my cousin let me borrow is the most fun car I've driven yet, and I've driven a Mustang Shelby Cobra GT500. It was so nimble, so direct with the steering inputs, so quick, and just overall a fun car to drive! Mini really knows how to make a fun little tossable car! That interior just repeatedly reminded me that I was in something interesting, not just your typical grocery-getter.

[@Anisse_N_Spices]

I personally LOVE the Mini stalks. They're always exactly where you want them to be. Just in reach. The fact they return to place helps me into not having to keep track of their position at all times. Also, regarding the digital screen, you could also change the information displayed. I personally oscillate between km of gas left, or km/l average

[@TheMadisonClaire]

The Mini community>>

[@crushingexistentialism]

really strong audi TT energy

[@BradleyWoodruff]

I have this car and have always found it to be extremely practical. "You and your friend need a ride to the airport? Sorry, only 2 seats." "Oh, you want to bring your large, obnoxious dog out with us? Sorry. No room." "Need help moving? I'll take whatever you can get into the trunk. Make sure it's secured." That said, I have moved twice in this car and it holds a surprising amount. Plus, it can hold 4 wheels and everything else I need for autocross. It is (for me) perfect.

[@RAPIDNISMO]

The most 'exciting' / 'sporty' mini rver made are the JCW GP series, going from r53 , r56, snd f56 generations, by far

[@jaypee6804]

True, but the R58s can be tuned and upgraded to be way more capable than the GP believe me.

[@richardgale3771]

Yep, 2 litre, 306 HP, top speed 164! Not sure about US, but can get in the UK, starts from £35,000

[@chrissyboy7047]

​@@richardgale3771auto only tho which kinda takes the fun out of it

[@RAPIDNISMO]

@@chrissyboy7047 only on gp3's, gp1 and gp2's were both manual

[@RAPIDNISMO]

@@jaypee6804 I'm talking factory figures

[@radioactivezeek4159]

Love the love for the 9:30 Club. Possibly my favorite thing about DC.

[@kotjutubowy3233]

The most unreliable MINI ever made. Almost bought JCW coupe, but eventually found hidden errors. Of course, you can fix it, but it’s really non-finishing story about constant repairs. Huge pass from me. The next gen is the best.

[@Nickoboss29]

PSA engines

[@davidtsang1807]

I'm the lucky one who bought the S non JCW version from used at the COVID time when it was lowest. Had only ~10000 ODO. Interior options were loaded up too, more than what Doug review this spartan version. The only catch it's automatic, nonetheless is still fun to drive, mpg is good (30+), and a extremely large truck for such small car.

[@that_camo_bronco_guy]

Doug you need to review a JCW Paceman, those are strange but cool!

[@fearlessfreep]

I had a Cooper S convertible for just over a year and LOVED it. I miss it every day, but it was an "extra car" that we just couldn't justify keeping when we needed to upgrade my wife's SUV.

[@drdanphd]

R53 was better that supercharger whine is amazing

[@wsgut123]

I was gonna say, my dad had one, that thing was a riot. Truly a bummer they never went back to the supercharger.

[@chrissyboy7047]

Its all the climate warriors' fault. Couldnt pass emmission requirements so thats why they had to change to a Turbo

[@connorperkins3489]

My dad had a 2006 Cooper S Aero and it was a blast. We drove it all the way to Northern Manitoba and every time we got gas about 2-3 came up to ask about it before they were popular. Great car and handles like a go kart

[@RealAtf]

Really a missed opportunity to call it the Mini Couper

[@DesigntodesireSR]

I love this car! Looks cooler than normal Mini!

[@Thebadbeaver9]

I never knew this thing even existed! Looks cool.

[@ollyvoxx]

Just bought a manual 2022 JCW 2 door! Best balance between fun & practical, imo. 200 lbs heavier than this coupe, but an infinitely better daily, IMO.

[@chartreux1532]

I've seen these every now and then here in Germany on the Autobahn or in the City, this one sounds especially amazing. Minis are super popular here, of course this Version is more rare. Are Minis in general popular in the USA? Like a common Car you see every day? Prost & Cheers from Berchtesgaden in the Bavarian Alps

[@bagheerab278]

Yes, they are a very common sight over here! Rarely see this coupe but many of the regular ones are pretty popular.

[@chartreux1532]

@@bagheerab278 That surprises me, i always assume Americans don't like small/small-ish Hatchbacks and the likes. But then, VW Golf and i assume Audi A1 and A3s etc. are also popular in the US

[@bagheerab278]

@@chartreux1532 You're right in that many of us in the USA generally prefer pickup trucks and SUVs in greater numbers, but the smaller hatches are also quite popular. They are just not as prevalent as in Europe. Chalk it up to different cultures in part, but there's also a practicality component. The Golf is a blast to drive and gets better fuel economy but when it's time to load up the family and luggage for a trip, the 4Runner is more practical!

[@bwofficial1776]

Minis aren't that common in the US. You'll see a Mini-brand car or two on the road but they're not everywhere. They're fairly expensive for their size and reliability historically hasn't been good because of their BMW roots. The Mini Coupe is very rare as there is a very limited market for a two-seat subcompact with a tiny trunk.

[@chartreux1532]

@@bwofficial1776 I guess it's like with VWs. I always have Americans from Pennsylvania tell me that VW Golfs of any year and type are all over the Place there. Regarding Reliability for Mini and BMW. It's interesting that in the USA BMW has such a bad Reputation and i always wondered why that is because over here in most European Countries it's not in the Top 3 Most Reliable Brands except in some Countries, but always in the Top 5

[@jtwig9311]

They made the Cooper jcw gp. Best mini ever. 301 hp big improvement over the coupe.

[@JewishMarine]

I have this same car and love that you gave it such high praise, I feel like a proud papa.

[@Ryukachoo]

Whenever I see one of these on the road I freak out a little and try to snap pics My gf when I do this while driving:

[@slowery43]

not even a little interesting, this isn't about you

[@sayyedameerarkhisro1464]

I guess the only gripe with the design was that it just needed a bit longer rear end and it would look the perfect coupe design. If Mini makes it today with that alteration, it would certainly look even cooler.

[@SudeennnSam]

“I think this is a car that probably at night when you leave, it entertains itself by spitting at the elderly” Jeremy Clarkson

[@jorgemiranda8542]

Doug wears a 9:30 club shirt and looks like he’s shooting this vid at UCSD. He reps two of my favorite cities so hard, DC and San Diego (or, at least, the La Jolla/Sorrento Valley parts of SD county). Great job!

[@kristopherbell7158]

Awesome, I loved the old 930 club!

[@tylercouture216]

I'm in DC why do you love it so much I'm new here I work for Dominion Energy

[@pragadoegito]

Coupé is not pronounced 'coop', but coo-peh

[@cheddarman420]

Coop-ay

[@CraigNelson-gw6jw]

You know why we'll always love Doug? Because no matter what other Cars channels are reviewing....Doug is going to comb through the category of all Cars. Even if we didn't ask him to lol

[@ZevMeth_originaljewishmusic]

I'm surprised Doug didn't mention original prices of these, nor how much these are going for nowadays!!! How lazy can you get Doug?

[@GRSEMETROMALL]

You really didn’t research this well. Comfort access would allow you to keep the key in your pocket and start the MINI or enter your MINI. The Clubman came before Country and Paceman.

[@trentonhryndej8205]

Nice to see another MINI on the channel! Ive had an R60 now an F60 and just got my 06 R53 JCW this month and it's a blast! I always liked the R58s and R59s I think one might be my next MINI.

[@goose4150]

Sickest MINI ever and the roadster should still be to this day the only roofless MINI on sale

[@Lukksia]

people definitely dont give minis enough credit. i have a 2004 mini cooper s supercharged, it sounds sooo good and handles like its on rails. I can't wait to start modding it.

[@tallperson117]

My Mini Coupe has been my daily driver for the last 7 years. I love it. Great little car.

[@caglioso]

always wanted this car, hope the bids don’t get too ridiculous

[@jaypee6804]

As an owner this video is great for the value lol

[@Qbed]

Every car manufacturer's secret fear: The Doug Score.

[@TheGoldenBoo]

I know people have said Doug's videos would be improved with POV driving, instead of a camera facing towards him, but I think in this particular review it worked in his favor because it showcased the active rear spoiler (meaning we know when he was going over 50).

[@brettbmoney4159]

I'm a 6'3" male and owned one of these. It was fun, good for san francisco parking

[@JMDrives]

I find this Coupe and the Paceman insanely appealing. Love both cars!

[@jasonwallace9561]

Doug with the 9:30 club t-shirt. That's sooooooooooo DC!!!!!!!

[@zeckerz]

Over the years, my dad has owned many Minis including the Paceman for a few years. These Minis are quite unique!

[@FurkanCemTurfanda]

The Coupe and Roadster are actually HEAVIER than the hatchback due to additional stiffness added to the chassis. You can make 400-500 hp out of these, my last MINI had 296 dynoed at the wheels.

[@danielhaga8915]

This is undoubtedly my dream car, you might think it's sad, but this body style on my favorite brand of cars, has to be the best in all of the car world

[@Emperormras]

Best looking Mini Copper IMO. And that particular color combo is dope👌

[@glodino88]

"Circle is a theme for this car" - A perfect vehicle for James Acaster

[@MrBudderTacoMBT]

I absolutely love quirky cars like this. A Mini Coupe and a Subaru Baja are cars I’m dying to own at some point

[@ENGBriseB]

Nice to see one still looking good for its age. And still working.

[@FifyKaqiqiPain]

A MANUAL??? Damn, that's so sick 💀💀💀

[@TonyLongLegs]

I have a 2018 JCW with a 6speed manual and it is honestly my favorite car I have ever owned or driven

[@FifyKaqiqiPain]

I prefer the looks of the regular Mini Cooper hatchback (with 2 doors), but I kinda like this too because it just looks so quirky 😂

[@jessemiller8476]

I feel like this is the first time he’s ever done a mini cooper. So many of those quirks and features are standard in all minis

[@fearlessfreep]

Nice 9:30 Club shirt! Love that place!

[@Wittstock99]

Agreed, had a 2008 R56 and loved it - so much fun to drive.

[@EnhancedNightmare]

This car looks much better in person. I was shocked how small and low it looks. XD

[@KennedyOtieno1944]

Doug is the type of guy who changes his shirts every minute 😊

[@marcusweearliuk8549]

I have the R59 Cooper S(Roadster), and I find it fun to drive. Especially when doing a few mods like...... Air Induction kit, upgraded suspension, strut bar and a stage 1 tuning.

[@jambear7862]

Real Mini Cooper enthusiasts know the R53 generation is the best of the modern Minis!!!

[@chrisperry2922]

Ahh the first ever Mini Couper

[@colebertils7359]

My mom wanted a Mini in the worst way for years. So my dad begrudgingly bought her a used 2006 convertible as a gift. At first, he wanted nothing to do with it. To the point of sending me to the lot to pick it up. Although it’s an automatic, it’s surprisingly fun to drive as Doug said. It feels like a go kart. And even over 6’ tall, once in the seat, it’s comfortable. I call it mom’s Hot Wheels lol