I wasn't able to locate any threads on it, so I'll just throw it out there. I am new to the Mini World (as of January), so I may not be as familiar with the engines and transmissions of the vehicles.

My understanding is that the engine from the R56 is similar (if not the same) as the Countryman. Could the AWD system from the Countryman be installed into a R56?

 

Yes it is the same engine. Yes you can do it if you have the knowledge and/or money to have it modified. I don't think anyone has every done it. But anything can be done as seen here.

 

Yeah, I've seen some crazy things, like a jet engine in the rear, I just didn't know if it was something anyone had tried, with/without results.

 

That is a pretty complex system. It isn't four wheel drive, it's more variable than that. It shifts from four wheel drive to front wheel drive, on the highway, right? So at any given time, it may be anything from four wheel drive to front wheel drive, depending on conditions. Which means controlled by the ECU, right?
That would sure be a project!

 

I'm fine with that, I'm looking for less of a FWD feel in corners and such. A lot of systems are like that now, more of a temporary AWD system that only kicks in when it is called for.

 

You could probably buy both a fully loaded r56 and R60 for the type of money it would cost to have this done.

For example I just went to realoem.com and started adding up the parts cost of the R60 drivetrain. I easily got to $12,000 before I stopped, and I was not done.

 

You can do anything with enough time and money, but the question is would it be worth it?

 

I would buy one!!!!!

The name would be..

COOPERSx

 

Sounds a bit like a Suzuki!!
One issues...where would you run the driveshaft...i guess if you cut the bottom of the r56 floor off... welded the floor and exhaust of the other car to it....

 

No floor work needed if you jack it up high enough!

 

Cooper Sex.

Not worth the money go buy a Still or Evo instead.

 

I think we can expect F56 will have All4 option in near future. If they can do it with close to R56S/JCW power-to-weight ratio, that will be a real fun little thing.

 

I never understood why they didnt incorporate an AWD system once the R56 was made. It would be fantastic if they did. Make it more competitive with the STI's and EVO's

 

I thought MINI's solution to this is the Paceman?