The Mini Cooper has always been heralded as one of the most fun cars you can drive. Its small size, quick handling and turbo power make it feel like a big kart on the road. But what about a sanctioned autocross course? Is the Mini Cooper the best car to kill some cones?
Which Mini Cooper Models Are Best For Autocross Racing?
If you want to hit an autocross track and are partial to Mini Coopers, some models might be better than others. Consumer Reports noted that the 2002 through 2012 Mini Cooper models have the lowest predicted reliability scores. The editors of Vehicle History indirectly reinforced these ratings by suggesting model years 2013 and later.
According to the publication, the first generation models (2002-2006) “are far from perfect due to their history of inferior reliability and quality.” First-generation Coopers were subject to clutch failures, cracked radiator expansion tanks, crankcase oil leaks, and electrical problems. Neither of which you would want if you plan to race the car hard on an autocross track.
The second generation Mini Coopers also had their share of problems. Some of the most notable included loose timing chains, oil starvation, and fluid leaks. All these problems may not be good for taking a car to the track.
In this case, 3rd generation Mini Coopers (2014-present) are more suitable for racing, as you are less likely to have problems. Mini solved many problems of previous generations. However, they are not without problems. Some issues include bad mounts, turbos, and oil starvation, but newer Coopers are generally better.
What does the third generation Mini Cooper have?
Now that we’ve figured out that the third generation Mini Cooper might be the best for autocross racing, it’s a good idea to look at what’s inside. Apart from having fewer issues, this iteration of the Mini Cooper houses a turbocharged 1.5-litre, three-cylinder engine under the bonnet that produces 134bhp in base form.
The more powerful Cooper S came equipped with a more powerful 189 hp 2.0-liter turbo engine that makes the car move well. As for the Cooper’s transmission configurations, a six-speed manual transmission is standard, but a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission is available.
We suggest you use any transmission to sweep an autocross course, as you’re mostly only using second and third gear to go around the cones. However, we expect the manual transmission to make the car a lot more fun during daily driving tasks.
The Mini Cooper is an excellent car for autocross racing
If you can’t afford a newer Mini Cooper, we suggest buying an old one but giving it a thorough check-up and fixing any issues before you take it to the track. Otherwise, the 2014 models sell for around $14,000, which isn’t too bad considering they retailed for over $30,000 when new. For that money, you get a small, front-wheel-drive hatchback that’s fun to drive on the street and on the autocross course.
