Transforming a Mini Cooper S into an Off-Road Beast
Mini Coopers are typically known for their agility in urban settings and on racing circuits, not for handling rough, off-road conditions. Their compact design and sensitive suspension make them ill-suited for trails where even small obstacles can pose challenges. However, one enthusiast has taken on the challenge of converting a standard Mini Cooper S into a formidable off-road vehicle.
The 2003 Mini Cooper S has been transformed with a comprehensive off-road kit by Journeys Off Road. This includes a substantial lift kit paired with 29-inch Maxtrek Mud Trac tires mounted on 15-inch Circuit Performance wheels, significantly increasing the vehicle's ground clearance. Additional enhancements include a snorkel for better water fording, rock sliders for protection against rough terrains, auxiliary lighting for improved visibility, and a sturdy roof rack to support extra gear.
Under the hood, the modified Mini retains its original supercharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering 168 horsepower and 155 pound-feet of torque. This engine is matched with a six-speed manual transmission. Despite having 140,000 miles on the odometer, the engine and transaxle have been meticulously rebuilt. The ignition system has been completely overhauled, and a new stainless steel exhaust has been installed, ensuring reliable performance on and off the pavement.
This unique off-road Mini Cooper S is up for grabs on the auction platform Bring a Trailer. With no reserve price, bidders have a great opportunity to own this one-of-a-kind vehicle. The current bid stands at an attractive $3,750, and the auction closes in just two days, making it a potential bargain for enthusiasts looking to add some off-road capability to their Mini collection.
