Top 5 Performance Mods for Newbies

MotoringFile’s recent post about newbie mods left a number of readers clamoring for a similar list aimed at performance. The ability to change the character of a MINI from pleasant ride to pocket rocket is a reality, and with the MINI now in it’s 4th model year, there’s an aftermarket just brimming with gizmos and gadgetry to help you get there. To help those new to the MINI world (and spark some debate among veterans, I’m sure), based on research, information gleaned from forums, message boards and conversations with tuner shops, I’ve whittled innumerable performance upgrades down to just 5 essentials. Each mod is ranked on a 1-5 scale in terms of difficulty, with 1 being easiest:

5. Intake/Exhaust – Usually the first mods performed, simply because of their ease of installation and immediate change to the car’s character. Nothing beats the whooshing sound of an intake pulling in fresh air and the off-throttle burbling of a cat-back exhaust. Cost can be an issue however, from options (hot air intake, one-ball exhaust, etc.) that don’t cost much, to factory-warranted JCW components that can set you back quite a bit. Whatever your choice, the difference in the seat-of-the-pants will be relatively subtle, as both mods usually deliver single-digit horsepower gains. The car will feel faster, but that’s probably because you’ll be stomping the gas pedal a bit more just to hear that sweet music! (3)

4. Pulley/Engine Management – If you’re looking to make serious power, and get the most bang for the buck, these are the mods to go for. While the pulley is only applicable to S versions, both upgrades provide the most increase in horsepower per dollar than any other. They also come with issues regarding warranty compatibility. They can be somewhat costly, as there is high initial cost or additional labor involved – however, most say cars with these modifications alone feel the way they should have felt from the factory. So if more low-end grunt and increased oomph across the entire powerband is what you’re after, these are the mods to look into. (5)

3. Rear Swaybar – If you’re looking to improve your handling, installing a a larger diameter (and maybe adjustable) rear swaybar is a good choice. Our cars have a tendency to understeer. A larger diameter bar reduces body roll, provides quicker turn-in, increases lateral stiffness and improves the car’s handling as a whole and makes the car a lot more neutral feeling. (4)

2. Wheels/Tires – I agree with Gabe on his previous points about ditching the runflats. But I would also add that while looking for better performing tires, look into pairing them with lighter rims. Most of the stock MINI rims are pretty heavy (the S-Lites alone weigh over 25 pounds each!), and your car has to use some of it’s power to overcome that weight. By replacing the runflats with a combination of lighter wheels and tires, you’ll notice much better response in off the line launching as well as in overall handling. The downside is in the event of a flat – if you have an S, be sure to carry flat fix, a spare or a cellphone. A suggestion would be to keep your current stock wheels/runflats for the winter weather (if you get such stuff where you are) and pick up a separate performance set for the warmer months. (3)

1. Driving Instruction – Far and away the best modification available – tightening up the nut behind the wheel. Works on all models and all years too! Seriously though, power increases and handling improvements mean nothing if you can’t harness and control them. Check out a local autocross or sign up for a track day where instructors will be on hand. Seek advice, get an instructor to go out with you, or better yet, have one drive your car while you observe from the passenger seat. You’ll be amazed the difference a single event makes. You’ll pick up skills that can be directly translated to your everyday street driving. You’ll have fun, become a better driver, and if you’re not careful, you could become addicted! (2)

The preceding list is just a top five grouping of the most commonly suggested modifications for MINIs. I know I’ve probably opened a big ol’ can of worms here, as there are a bunch of great modifications not represented (such as short shifters, plugs, wires, harnesses, etc)… So let’s hear what would be on your list…