If I ended up getting a 998cc Mini, is the 1275 a direct swap or are there other items that would need to be upgraded as well??

 

I'm involved in the same process now- am buying a Mini that had a 998, but a 1275 is going to be installed. I think that most of it is a direct swap, but I'm going with a bigger exhaust and may also put an additional engine steady on it to control torque. I'm sure there will be some surprises along the way, but I really think the 1275 is the way to go.

 

Yeah, that is my thinking too. I have read and heard that the 1275 is a better choice for something that would be a daily driver and highway driver. It seems that many Mini's out there for sale are 998's.

 

Depends on what the 1275 is from. If its from another Mini, then its likely to be a direct or almost direct swap. If its from an MG Metro, there are other issues. Not deal breakers, but hings to make the Metro 1275 work in the Mini. I recently bought a 1275 from a Metro to replace a 998, and have read in several places what needs to be considered. Suggest MiniMania's technical articles - Keith Calver has some good stugff there. But there is nothing wrong with a well running, and maybe minor tuned 998. Mine has a stage 1 upgrade, and can easily hold its own on all but constant interstate driving. In Alabama, we have taken driving on the interstate to a new level of thrills and excitement. An underpowered vehicle, Mini or other, just doesn't have a chance. Hence my 1275 project.

 

I swapped my tired 988 motor for a modifed 1310 A+ motor. it was very easy