Factory JCW Kit Confirmed for '06 Model Year

revwillie Jul 14th, 2005 Link

New acronym? JCW-CM? OK, now I just need to know how much it will cost so I can start selling everything else I own.

Edge Jul 14th, 2005 Link

Hmm - I wonder if the SCCA will finally recognize the JCW kit in the “stock” class? And if they do, will that apply to previous model years as well, or only to 2006s?

Ian Jul 14th, 2005 Link

Manual transmission only - beginning to look like the JCW may never appear for the auto MCS …

rustyb Jul 14th, 2005 Link

Nice. Finally, putting the customer ahead of the dealer…

mataku Jul 14th, 2005 Link

God i want one.. but dang it’s gonna be one expensive car.

Vaper Jul 14th, 2005 Link

Gabe: Great news indeed. Any word on if it will be available starting with the September production?

razorbackmini Jul 14th, 2005 Link

I am awaiting the 07 model change. Can we assume that MINI is also planning the immediate application of the factory JCW kit to 07 models?

Gabe Jul 14th, 2005 Link

I am awaiting the 07 model change. Can we assume that MINI is also planning the immediate application of the factory JCW kit to 07 models?

I would expect there to be some lag time from the R56 introduction to the JCW version of that car. Look at the M3 for example. It takes BMW up to two years to release it from the point a new 3 series is released.

Gabe: Great news indeed. Any word on if it will be available starting with the September production?

Starting with 10/05 production - as stated in the above article ;-)

Steve Jul 14th, 2005 Link

Since a JCW kit for 2007 would have to be all new, as the engine will be all new. I would imagine that a JCW kit will lag behind by as much as 6 months.

Rob Rudorf Jul 14th, 2005 Link

I know these are premium small cars but i can already see the sticker price on a loaded S model approaching 40K which puts it into 330i territory. Since BMW is selling every single car that lands here in the US, a price reduction is not in the cards. Yikes!

Ken Jul 14th, 2005 Link

Now I’m confused. So the “06″ will be supercharged and the “07″ turbo??
How will JCW change for the turbo MCS.

And why would you want an Auto trans with all that extra horsepower. Just to waist it?
In reality the auto trans might have issues with handling the extra ponies. Just a guess.

Luke Jul 14th, 2005 Link

Any word on pricing?

Sean Bancroft Jul 14th, 2005 Link

I wonder if the total price paid for JCW will be less now since the customer will no longer be paying a dealer for labor?

Jason Jul 14th, 2005 Link

I’m with revwillie. Time to start selling everything else I own…

Chris Jul 14th, 2005 Link

Not only are you not paying labor, but Mini is saving on the displaced parts, so it should be cheaper than the $5500 it would cost for the dealer kit + brake kit currently. How much cheaper is the question. It really should be like $2500, but I’m guessing the badge will cost us another $1400, for a $3900 total.

Not sure I’d pay $4k for it, but I’d be tempted. :)

mataku Jul 14th, 2005 Link

I wonder if the total price paid for JCW will be less now since the customer will no longer be paying a dealer for labor?

I think this was one of the benefits many were looking forward too. Or at least I would hope that it would cost less than a dealer install.

Z4MINI Jul 14th, 2005 Link

“Not only are you not paying labor, but Mini is saving on the displaced parts, so it should be cheaper than the $5500 it would cost for the dealer kit + brake kit currently. “

I dunno, but your dealer based price seems CHEAP from what I have seen others pay. Sounds like that is closer to the PARTS ONLY price. Plus this kit has an LSD which no dealer will install.

Z4MINI Jul 14th, 2005 Link

OK…maybe it doesn’t have an LSD. I re-read Gabe’s posting and maybe I was confused the first time around.

Gabe Jul 14th, 2005 Link

OK…maybe it doesn’t have an LSD. I re-read Gabe’s posting and maybe I was confused the first time around.

LSD is included in the kit.

Paul Jul 14th, 2005 Link

This is great news but I don’t think I’ll wait another two months to get the package when my MCS is shceduled for production next month. I think I’ll think I’ll add the JCW brake kit based on what the writeup points out. Already have the lsd and sports package on my list.

Andromcs Jul 14th, 2005 Link

I get the better of this more, but after having our ‘05 MCS since Feb. ‘05 which has the sport package, LSD, Bullets, etc.. I don’t see any need for more power or speed. I have yet to reach this car’s full potential and as I have said before, I might be scared once I reach that point! The regular MCS is fast!

Mark Jul 14th, 2005 Link

Gabe,

Any mention of the JCW suspension being part of the package or of the the lightweight special edition?

TooLShack Jul 14th, 2005 Link

Awesome news Gabe, now it’s time to start saving and sell the 04 MCS. I still love my 04 but buying a new house next month so I could use the reduction in debt. But in the spring of 06, it’s time for a new Mini. JCW with “english leather” seats and I will be set!

Allan Jul 14th, 2005 Link

My guess is that the cost will be upwards of $36,000 for sure.

I just hope I can talk myself out of selling my soul to purchase an 06′ JCW MCS

JiminVirginia Jul 14th, 2005 Link

I personally would pay $4K, maybe even $5K, for the package. This still gives you an MCS under $30K, unless you splurge on other options. If I did this, I’d be transitioning my coilovers and sway bar over to the new 2006 car from my 2005.

What am I thinking? I just got the 2005!

Rollin Jul 14th, 2005 Link

Any word if the MC (non-S) JCW exhaust and/or suspension will be available from the factory?

JAG Jul 14th, 2005 Link

I just saw a fully loaded MCS-JCW with a sticker (shock) of 46k at a MINI showroom. Only original MINI parts. Any takers?

O(=^=)O Capn Jul 14th, 2005 Link

I think it will be a little less expensive, just to compete with the Dinan package.

meanboy Jul 14th, 2005 Link

“I just saw a fully loaded MCS-JCW with a sticker (shock) of 46k at a MINI showroom. Only original MINI parts. Any takers?”

Is that the silver one that’s on ebay?

Once the pricing comes out I might order a 06 with the JCW and sell our 04. Good thing I didn’t mod it yet. :)

Union Jack Jul 14th, 2005 Link

In Germany we habe allready the Pricelist for the 10/05 production…

in Germany the JCW Package costs 4650,- Euro so that may give you a hint…

you can download the new pricelist on
http://www.mini2ig.de/forum

Gabe Jul 14th, 2005 Link

Based on that I’m guessing MINIUSA will push for at least a $5,000 price point. Of course this is just an estimated guess at this point.

Luke Jul 14th, 2005 Link

5k sounds like a good deal to me. Now would I really want a new MINI in Nov and have to drive it through the harsh NE winter.

Chris Jul 14th, 2005 Link

I wonder if the package price includes the sport package and LSD, or are you just forced to add those two options (and pay for them) when you choose the Works package?

If 4650 Euro includes the LSD and SP, it’s a good price.

nina simone Jul 14th, 2005 Link

FAB reporting, Gabe.
Driving an 03 nearly out of warranty. Sell & get an 05 or 06 in-between the R56?
=> Open for suggestions, all. ;D

Melanie Jul 14th, 2005 Link

If the JCW brakes need a minimum of 17 inch wheels, can they be fitted to my 17 inch bullet spokes?

I find it interesting that the BMW/MINI engineers won’t sell the new JCW without the LSD. This reinforces my earlier dilemma about getting the JCW tuner kit added to my November 2004 build 2005 MCSC (hence non-LSD equipped) car. I had fears that perhaps the extra power might create some unwanted handling issues for me, which I wasn’t sure I wanted to risk considering the (considerable) added cost involved. So, I settled on a “near beer” version of JCW, that is the JCW intake, JCW catback exhaust and (soon) Webb Motorsports 15% Alta pulley and JCW 18″ wheels. I wanted to retain the car as OEM as possible, and figured that with this combination, I’d be reasonably OK with any warranty issues (Randy has his own warranty to the pulley, which - at the 15% size - has faired quite well historically over the past few years, so I feel it’s a “safe” gamble).
In addition, I should theoretically have about 190 -195 HP when all are installed! Considering that I got the parts either lightly used or new, my total cost thus far, for the JCW intake and JCW catback exhaust has been $1200 installed. The pulley will run me another $400 (installed).
So, around $1600 for a kind of “JCW Jr.” - which I think is not bad for the JCW bling, the added HP, keeping close to OEM, etc.

I see that there is talk about JCW suspension possibly coming out for the Cabrio. I may have to have that!!!

Jack Wolfe Jul 14th, 2005 Link

I have been waiting for this bit of news to know when to place the order.

I have one built and the price I came up with is 38 that is MCS with all premium pacs plus all JCW kits engine, brakes, suspension, 18s

I would now like to add the seats on the park lane and I am set, if I place order in Oct it will make a nice Christmas gift to myself, what is nice is my wife is excited for me as well

Frank Jul 14th, 2005 Link

$38K for a new MINI?

Don’t think so.

I paid $22K for my ‘05 MCS.

To each thier own I guess.

SF Jul 14th, 2005 Link

Here’s a link to the Germany 2006MY price list (in German of course, and does not include the cabrio):
http://dl4.rapidshare.de/files/2962079/45028412/ministandseptember_2005.pdf

SF Jul 14th, 2005 Link

Sorry about my previous link. It’s a free sharing site and you have to start here:
http://rapidshare.de/files/2962079/ministandseptember2005.pdf.html
Scroll down and click on the “Free” button. Then the next page, scroll down to he bottom and click where it says “Download: ministandseptember2005.pdf”

Greg W Jul 14th, 2005 Link

Call me old fashioned, but…
Putting a JCW kit on an automatic model takes away the old purist “race car” effect. Old Classic Coopers were never offered in automatic (probably because the old 4 speed would not cope), and race and rally cars never used automatics.
However, I can’t see how the John Cooper Works people can now be exclusive if the MINI factory is fitting their gear. It appears they have been relegated to “subsidiary” status.
Keep the top of the line performance model in manual trans only.

Davislove Jul 14th, 2005 Link

very interesting, the key piece of information will be the price

drew Jul 14th, 2005 Link

fair enough gregg - but as a proud owneer of an mcsa i can tell you the car is a blast to drive and the paddles offer their own brand of fun - especially living in an urban enviornment like new york and then getting out to the hamptons or westchester for some fun on the backroads. i have spoken with the folks at jcw in the uk and they asuure me that the kit will be released once bmw has signed off on it. i would be very surprised to see it scrubbed at this point as the mcsa seems to be a complete success and their are plenty of people already lined up for this kit.

as for jcw now being relegated to a subsidiary - i think you might have a point! not sure how this is going to change things - but the dealers’ jcw install biz is surely going to get whacked to some degree… only time will tell.

i for one am still chomping at the bit for the kit - although i must admit ehst tock mcsa with the addition of the jcw exhaust and air filter are really more than enough power for my neck of the woods. i’m just too close to not finish it off though ; )

cheers - drew

SF Jul 14th, 2005 Link

The JCW Kit described by Gabe appears to be specific to the US. The JCW kit in the German price list has no mention of LSD and includes 16″ Bridge Spoke wheels/runflats (along with the red JCW brakes, so it seems 17″ is not a requirement).

greg Jul 14th, 2005 Link

Hey Greg W. You can’t say that stuff here. If you think the whine of the JCW supercharger is loud…..

Gabe Jul 14th, 2005 Link

The JCW Kit described by Gabe appears to be specific to the US. The JCW kit in the German price list has no mention of LSD and includes 16″ Bridge Spoke wheels/runflats (along with the red JCW brakes, so it seems 17″ is not a requirement).

Yeah that’s a very interesting difference. The 16″ Bridge Spoke seem to be made specifically to fit the JCW Brake kit… and help keep the JCW cost down the EU market. That said I just don’t think they fill out the big wheel wells successfuly.

BTW the LSD will actually be part of the kit… that’s probably why it wasn’t mentioned.

JAG Jul 14th, 2005 Link

meanboy, I don’t know if it is the one in ebay but it is at Braman MINI here in Miami, its dark gray, all options and the whole JCW catalog, saw it last week when I picked up my MCS for much, much less, not beacuse I wanted to, but… the Lottery hasn’t been kind to me lately.

JBFromOZ Jul 14th, 2005 Link

Now all i need to hear is the AWD option availability, and i trade in my MY05 JCW MCS, i was in pre 01/05 delivery, so no LSD, a few other niggles since, main issue for me was trading out and losing my JCW kit without being able to replace it fully

Paul Jul 14th, 2005 Link

Greg and GregW,

I am a long-time lurker, hungrily absorbing all of the MINI information generously provided by Gabe and other contributors. I have explicitly avoided entering any arguments over the merits or pitfalls of the automatic-equipped MCS, but have decided to voice my opinions as a recently-handicapped driving enthusiast who is anxiously awaiting his opportunity to own an MCS. I apologize for veering off-topic.

I lost my left leg and knee after being run over by a truck. The accident also crushed my right leg, making it impossible for me to press the gas or brake pedals in a car. After spending seven months in various hospitals, I learned to drive with hand controls. Since I spend most of my life in a wheelchair, driving a car is the clearest expression of independence that I have — despite my disabilities, I can get myself wherever I need to go.

I am a lifelong gearhead, and owned several vintage motorcycles and manual transmission-equipped cars before my accident. Now, I am relegated to driving cars with automatic transmissions. When you make fun of people who drive automatic-equipped MINIs, or demand that MINI only offer JCW-equipped cars with a manual, please try to think of enthusiasts such as myself who spent years looking at MCS’s on dealer lots, unable to drive one because of physical disabilities. Try to think how happy it makes people like me to be able to purchase an MCS with an automatic transmission, and how my purchase has absolutely no effect on your ability to enjoy your manual transmission.

I dragged my girlfriend to our local MINI dealership two days after it opened for business to ogle the MCS. One of the Motoring Advisors used to let my girlfriend “test drive” an MCS while I sat in the passenger seat, listening to her describe how the car felt through tight turns. Try to imagine how sad I was, knowing that at the age of 26, I would again never be able to drive a car like the MCS. I dreamed of owning an MCS for years, but my physical disability made it an impossibility until MINI offered an automatic transmission. Now, I’m back in graduate school and financial restrictions will probably keep me from buying a MCSa, but I am very grateful to MINI for providing me with the option.

I would be equally grateful if other MINI enthusiasts took a moment to think about how happy they were when they took delivery of their MCS, and to then imagine how happy a physically disabled person would feel to be given the opportunity to buy such a car. People such as myself were denied the simple pleasure of MCS ownership until MINI offered an automatic transmission. Why would you begrudge me this?

Gabe Jul 14th, 2005 Link

Thanks for sharing that Paul. I
hope it puts this tired anti-auto arguement to rest and some of our meaningless arguments in perspective. You’re a perfect example of why the MCSa is a great addition to the MINI line.

BTW it’s people like yourself that have made me appreciate the availability of the auto.

isellem Jul 14th, 2005 Link

I hope that last post does put the automatic debate to bed! I have been saying that for a long time now! I have soooo many customers who physically cannot drive a manuel! this is a great oportunity for others to join in the fun and experiance of owning a cooper S!

also concerning pricing… to the people who are not excited about paying at least 4gs for the jcw kit… think of it this way… you spent an extra 3500 for 40hp before (round numbers) you should probably expect to pay it again… at least this time you will get upgraded brakes with it!

Cheers!

Aurel Jul 14th, 2005 Link

if the price stays in the $5000 range with all included … will spring for it.

Frank Jul 14th, 2005 Link

Greg W., you are wrong.

Here in our local club http://www.minisofmiami.com we have 1 classic Mini equipped with a factory 3-speed automatic transmission. The car is right hand drive and the paintwork is black.

It is one of the most beautiful classic Minis we have in our club.

Do your research first.

Kaelaria Jul 14th, 2005 Link

It is absolutely insane that people pay that much for such little performance. I’m sorry, but those parts aren’t worth 1/2 of what they charge, and are easily outperformed by the aftermarket.

Melanie Jul 14th, 2005 Link

What a well-said argument against the “manual only” snobbery (I don’t have another word for it, sorry) that I have witnessed on this forum as well as others. I have a manual transmission in both my MINI (2005 MCSc) and my 1996 Audi A4Q. It is by the grace of god that I am able to drive them.
Good for you, that MINI would give you and others similarly disposed (due either to disablily or inablity)to own an automatic version of such a fun car!
I sincerely hope that you own one someday, and have the opportunity to enjoy it as much as the rest of us!

Gregory Jul 14th, 2005 Link

I think it’s all a matter of preference and I doubt there will ever be clear agreement on whether the JCW performance justifies the price.

The MINI attracts such a varied audience. You’ll see someone shopping for a performance car in the $50-60K range buy a JCW MCS or MCS. Next to that person in the showroom, you’ll see someone ordering a $23K MCS or MC for is zip, looks, and economy. There are so many things that go into the feeling a driver has behind the wheel.

I test drove a 2005 MCS and it was fantastic. No arguments. Great car. I bought a JCW MCS and it’s worth every penny to me. Is it any better? Well, that’s subjective. The cost-benefit equation is based on what features the person behind the wheel felt were needed to put that smile on their face. And from what I have seen, every MINI driver has a smile so the equation is always different.

drew Jul 14th, 2005 Link

amen paul - and if you’re ever in nyc and want to test drive an mcsa with the jcw air intake, exhaust, brake kit and 18 inch wheels…my keys are yours.

cheers - drew

SF Jul 14th, 2005 Link

Gabe, there isn’t anything fundamentally “JCW” about the LSD, and perhaps MINI Germany is simply packaging their JCW kit differently from the expected US configuration. I do think it is a bit odd for them to include 16 inch wheels! Not bling enough for the typical JCW buyer.

Gabe Jul 14th, 2005 Link

Gabe, there isn’t anything fundamentally “JCW” about the LSD, and perhaps MINI Germany is simply packaging their JCW kit differently from the expected US configuration.

No there is nothing different that I know of. 2nd question - I would doubt it. I am guessing that the inclusion of LSD for the US market was a decision made by engineers in Germany for the entire production worldwide. Just my guess though.

Greg W Jul 15th, 2005 Link

My apologies to all above re the Auto thing. In fact I drive a Cooper Auto with paddles myself (yellow with black roof and sunroof). So I take your points.
But excuse me but there was no such thing as a three-speed Classic Mini from the factory - the auto box was unique as it had a stick shift for 1, 2, 3, 4, D, R positions - at least in RHD English markets - made by Automotive Products (AP) in 1968. I should know cause I worked on them!

GW

David Jul 15th, 2005 Link

Paul, great post, but I don’t think the argument was against the auto-MINI, but against the JCW-auto-MINI.

Most top-line-trim performance cars are not offered in auto (MB-AMG is a distinct difference, but I think they cater to tastes more concerned with luxury than performance). Look at Corvette Z06, Evo 8 or 9 or whatever they’re at now, Acura NSX, last-gen Mustang Cobra, etc.

While I understand your situation (as much as I can), there’s something to be said for performance cars staying true to their race-car roots.

meanboy Jul 15th, 2005 Link

Jag,

The JCW on Ebay was in NJ so I guess it’s not the same one. It’s priced at 48k and doesn’t have navigation!

Anyway, I hear you about the lottery. My pockets aren’t that deep yet.

If the JCW costs 5k more I might have to reconsider it depending on what it includes. I’ll just have to wait and see.

dan Jul 15th, 2005 Link

I can think of a few other “top of the line” cars that have what one would term automatic transmissions - the new BMW M5 & M6 were initially offered with SMG only options - it was the outcry from the US market that forced BMW’s hand to put in manual transmissions. Ferrari also comes to mind, and I am sure this trend will only continue. These are certainly performance cars….

Gabe Jul 15th, 2005 Link

I would certainly not call SMG or the F1 gearbox an automatic. It’s actually a traditional manual transmission with a computer controlled clutch. Very different from a traditional auto.

dan Jul 15th, 2005 Link

Gabe - I would agree that SMG & F1 gearboxes are not traditional autos - I guess my point was that there are a number of performance cars that do have non - manual transmissions, and some of the purists (as we all know )are very vocal about that fact.

Gabe Jul 15th, 2005 Link

Gotcha. BTW it should be interesting to read reviews of the M5 and M6 with the manual compared the SMG. My guess is that most journos will much prefer it.

cct1 Jul 15th, 2005 Link

Can’t wait to see the pricing on this. I’m totally rethinking what I might be doing (and now probably going to have to wait another month to order).

Just an idle thought: the JCW factory installed is a double whammy for the dealer–not only do they lose the markup for installation, but depending on the price, this could cut in to their aerokit sales too–I’d wager a significant number of people would choose the JCW kit over the aerokit if the price is right. There are so many posts at NAM and mini2 in that vein on which to spring for, the aero kit or JCW…

Chris Jul 15th, 2005 Link

I hope the aerokit is offered from the factory too, that would be outstanding.

Edge Jul 15th, 2005 Link

That’s the thing that irks me about the “aero kit”… there is absolutely NO performance benefit, it’s all about the bling. The name suggests some kind of aerodynamic improvement, but all it does is add weight.

If someone has to ask the question of “JCW or aero kit?”, they are clearly very confused individuals.

Put simply, what’s more important? Real performance or fake “style”?

Chris Jul 15th, 2005 Link

It seems to me the Mini is about style more than performance, so I don’t think that’s a fair statement. Can’t blame people for balking at spending $6000 for another 1/2 second off their 0-60.

Edge Jul 15th, 2005 Link

Chris,

I am not saying that style has no place on the MINI… that would be absurd. I’m saying that I can’t understand how someone would ever be confused about which choice to make. They aren’t anywhere near the same ballpark, in price OR purpose.

cct1 Jul 15th, 2005 Link

Different strokes for different folks–some people may prefer the looks of the aerokit versus the performance of the JCW, especially if money is an issue. I personally am not a fan of the aerokit, but I can understand how someone else would be. My whole point was that if the dealer installed aerokit comes close to the same price as the factory installed JCW, I’ll bet the factory JCW will take a big ‘ol divot out of the dealer installed aerokits–we’ll have to see what all the final pricing is.

PeB_35 Jul 17th, 2005 Link

The german list price show 4′680 € (with 16% taxes) for the JCW package.

gmini Jul 17th, 2005 Link

A motoringfile citing Motoring Advisor told me the other day that the Factory JCW may not be available in the states. Did I miss something?

Greg W Jul 17th, 2005 Link

Dear Frank,
Check out this site below for a desciption of the AP 4spd Auto trans as fitted to 1968-on Mini, Austin America, and Metro range.
http://members.tripod.com/austin_america/id72.html

Cheers
GW.

Adrian Jul 21st, 2005 Link

I’m realy pleased with my new cooper s cabriolet apart from one important factor why do they make the seats so hard i cant travel much more than 100 miles in the car without getting severe backace.The lumber support realy bruses my back is there anyone else that has the same problem

Kevin Aug 9th, 2005 Link

I am hoping to order a JCW car before it is offered as a factory option… and this forum raised a question. When installed as an aftermarket item, the vehicle owner would retain take-off parts, would they not? I’d like to order 18″ JCW wheels but use the Sport Package 17″ wheels for winter snows.

Dave Aug 11th, 2005 Link

If the factory JCW production begins in October, when should I submit my order to ‘get in queue?’

Eric Oct 10th, 2005 Link

Any news on the JCW Auto kit? Is that even coming out in the U.S.?

MotoringFile » Blog Archive » Official 2006 MINIUSA Pricing Nov 7th, 2005 Link

[...] Now for the news many of you have really been waiting for, factory JCW Package pricing. As we mentioned previously this package (code 3AL) will come with limited slip differential ($500), JCW Brake kit ($1056) and of course the JCW Engine Kit ($4775). Now add up those three and you get a surprisingly close idea of what the option costs. The factory JCW kit (including both options just mentioned) will retail for $6300. [...]

MotoringFile » Archive » MotoringFile 2005 in Review Dec 30th, 2005 Link

[...] 6. Factory JCW Kit Confirmed for 2006 [...]

MotoringFile » Archive » New JCW Options for 2006 Nov 22nd, 2006 Link

[...] As we’ve reported way too many times over the past several months, MINI will be offering the full JCW Engine Kit as a factory option for the MCS. The kit will retail for $6300 (£3,600 in the UK) and will come standard with the JCW Sport Brake Kit and Limited Slip Differential. In the US it will require the addition of the Sport Package due to the larger brakes. For the UK it will simply require 17″ wheels ordered with the car from the factory. The JCW Engine Kit will be available as a factory option from 10/05 on. [...]

MotoringFile » Archive » JCW Factory Production Slips to November Nov 22nd, 2006 Link

[...] You can put this in the confirmed rumor category: all 2006 MINIs with the factory JCW package will be pushed back to November production. We’ll hopefully have more info soon. [...]