Explain to me the difference and why the JCW is superior to the S model?

 

I can't verify this, but I saw a thread discussing how to upgrade the brakes on the S model (get bigger brakes, not just slotted or different material). It seemed like quite a project, money-wise. I only occasionally do several hard brakings in a row, but getting the better brakes was one of the reasons for me. For some reason I also think the lower JCW front bumper, without the round fog lights, looks a bit more modern or updated.

 

Horsepower

 

Limited slip in the factory 2006 cars.

 

Hi,
The year is my question: What year/s are you looking at? Most JCW are enhanced "S" models.
JCW factory models can have limited slip diff, higher horse power, a better handling package, smoother exhaust flow, different brakes and cool factor. This is not to say you could not make a JCW killer out of an "S" model, but cost can be enormous.
It really depends on what you really want. They will both be fun, but out of the box, the JCW has more power and better handling.John Cooper is the tuning guru, that put Mini on the map and won many rallies and track events.
OK, none of this means anything, as far as looks goes, but it is an added perc in the cool factor and a handling monster!
I hope you find what you really want!

 

Maybe you shouldnt. If your emotions tell you the reliability of the base cooper is a concern, as is your fear of turbo engines - an S or a JCW is a move in the wrong direction for your requirements.

 

If you can get one for almost the same price i would get the JCW. I had both and thats what i would do, Good luck on the search.

 

I don't track nor AutoX my cars. They are drivers. I can have either the S or JCW. I had a 2015 S w/ the JCW tune (just ordered a 2019 MCS w/ the JCW tune). Test drove a 2018 JCW back to back w/ my S on the same road doing the same things (with a salesman in both cars). Was debating on ordering a 2019 JCW this time around. My S (w/ the JCW tune) felt quicker and more responsive than the JCW. Salesman agreed that my S seemed quicker and more responsive.

The MCS w/ a JCW tune actually produces more torque earlier and overall than the JCW. Less HP, but torque is where you feel the pull and have the fun.

Ordered both my 2015 and the 2019 w/ the DDC so I can adjust my ride a bit softer too. This is my driver so fun and comfort is my #1 priority.

 

oh the UGLY's (2015-2019) IMO

 

Resale

 

I noticed that too. The S felt faster than the JCW when I test drove both. I believe this is due to the JCW's transmission being geared taller.

I picked the JCW because of the brakes and seats. It also has more potential if I ever want to tune it.

 

Yes, certainly the full JCW has more potential for track and racing and comes with plenty of upgrades to support those endeavors. I have not checked on the engine turning options (comparing the B48 to the B46), could very well be the B48 has more headroom than the B46.

Choosing between the two has much to do with the intended buyer's plans. In choosing a 2 series BMW, I could have purchased the M2 or the M240i. M2 was designed for more track use while the M240i was softer and a more plesant daily driver. They were within a hairs breath of each other in accelerations (as stock), so I chose the M240i, I put a Dinan Stage 1 tune on the M240i and have a very fast comfortable daily driver that will out accelerate a stock M2.

M2 and the JCW are both excellent cars, no doubt. Just depends on how you plan to use either.

 

The S and JCW aren't that far off from each other HP/Torque wise.... until now.
I know it's not out yet, but I dare anyone to say the 2020 JCW feels slower than the S.

I'm currently going through the same decision though.
One thing I know is that I don't like any of the wheels that come on the S, but really like the JCW wheels.
That right there is at least a 1000 savings (aftermarket wheels) without tires. Then there is the big brakes, another couple grand.
Add in an exhaust and a couple other minor mods and you are already at JCW pricing. And still don't have a lot of the cool bits and other upgraded components, not to mention a warranty on those mods.

One thing I don't like about the JCW... no fog lights.

 

 

I've had the F56 MCS with the JCW Pro tuning kit as well as an F56 JCW.
I'd take the JCW every time.

 

FWIW, check the wheel weights on the JCW (the "S" also). You will be far better off with a set of light weight aftermarkets than what comes on that car. I shed 32lbs of unsprung weight with a set of aftermarkets and gained about 10 more WHP and WTQ in the process.