Anybody out there who has swapped out to an aftermarket IC? I'm looking to buy an OEM GP IC.

 

Is the GP Intercooler "better" then the stock S intercooler?

 

Yes, its got bit more heat exchange surface to keep the inlet temps (after the SC) cooler. The denser charge provides more power. Its not real clear how much bigger the GP IC is, or how much average increase in hp can be expected. Even with a dyno, the difference can't be measured because highway wind speeds can't be reproduced on the dyno.

Here again, it is most likely that a good aftermarket IC will outperform at a much lower price, but for those of us trying to maintain 100% OEM upgrades, it's unfortunately the only way to go.

Now, if I could just find an OEM shortshifter.

 

the GP intercooler has 2 more combs of fins on it vs. the stock intercooler. I don't think that would make much of a difference. I would just stick with your stock IC.

Happy Motoring!

just my $0.02

 

If you live at high RPMs, the GP will show benenfit via lower pressure loss.

Matt

 

The Dr. Would be correct.
when i had the 17% installed at Helix they suggested the GP intercooler over other after market a 2 a ic. For example the Alta or the Forge may perform well for a few runs, but due to thier size they will they will has issues with shedding heat.

 

This may well be a real selling point as the revs are always over 4k when extra performance is desired.

 

If I where you I would save your $800 and just get an Alta diverter plate with the H2O mister. My buddy put it on and it really made a tight seal against the hood and kept the intercooler nice and cool. I think they go for $150 or so and install in minutes.
Mario

 

I'm in the market for a GP intercooler as well - even called Helix (as they used to have some) but they are out of them for the time being.

Just like lhoboy, I'm trying to stay 100% OEM - after all, my car is named Mr. OEM.

 

as I think the GP parts embargo may be off. Also Peter Kostenberg (I think that's how it's spelled) was selling a bunch of them. He may be able to get more as well.

Matt

 

Can you confirm the end of the GP parts embargo? That would be great, I priced the intercooler and all the parts needed to install awhile back and it was only around ( if I remember correctly) $400.00+ retail. But could not order with out a VIN # and proof of ownership....

 

and it may depend on the part. Several people are buiying the al rear control arms, but that's carried over to the 07.

Matt

ps, you could always ask a GP owner to order it for you..... Or try Classic Auto Campus, and they have a 20% discount for NAM memenbers on parts in stock!

 

Thanks for the info, Ill check them out... Someone on here I think said that Mini was now even wanting proof from the dealers that the original IC was broken before they would ship a new one. But I can't verify that...

 

It's clear that there are much less expensive ways of dropping the IAT, or doing any other mods by going with aftermarket equipment. My intent is to keep the car as OEM as possible. When I get ready to sell the car in 20 years it will pay off. I'll have a bunch of rare OEM performance options. I did the same thing with a Sunbeam Tiger that I loaded with LAT options over time. Sold the car for 6 times what I paid for it.

About the same number of 1st gen JCWs as Tigers built.

 

they're about to really, really climb in values as no one can afford a Shelby cobra, and the AC Cobras are starting to climb as well. No where left to go but the Tiger!

Matt

 

+1.

Can feel quite noticeable improvement over stock IC, especially at higher rpm.

 

I'm guessing the MINI JCWs and GPs may not reach the level of popularity of the Tiger. but who knows. If they do, just like the Tiger, there will be counterfeits. With the Tiger there are subtle differences that can expose a Tigerized Alpine. With the JCW all you have to do is counterfeit the certificate.

 

FWIW, it looks like the last 60 or so North American factory (non-GP) JCW R53s got the aluminum rear control arms as well. Might have been a build-out only situation. I've seen six such cars; three in Southern California, one each in Michigan, New Jersey (at BMW in Montvale) and Statesota.