I'm looking to buy an uprated turbo. I don't know much when it comes to this subject so any help is much appreciated. Before suggestions are thrown out here is what I am and am NOT looking for out of my MINI. I have a JCW engine with the standard MCS turbo as is usual. I'm not looking to see how much power and boost I can throw into the 1.6L.

I'm not looking for a drag MINI (something that is quick traffic light to traffic light). What I am looking for is a good amount of torque for very quick and powerful accerlation out of turns and corners. I have an AEM CAI, performance exhaust, and Helix FMIC on the way. Also on the way is a performance clutch and flywheel. Before I buy an uprated turbo I will buy a new LSD so what ever power I'm put out when I run a stage 3 tune or something I will be able to plant the power.

Now I know there are people who have tuned a JCW turbo with some success, but I have not heard of any numbers and figures, pros and/or cons. I don't want to drop an ATP GT28RS turbo as I have heard those are a nightmare to tune and can be around $2K-4K extra just to get it working halfway well. What I'm looking for is a relatively easy/direct swap install, good tuneability, and quality. Alta's turbo was attractive to me but it is not on their website and I fear it may not come back.

Any help and advice (maybe some pro and con stories and experiences) would be much appreciated.

 

Get springs,shocks and sway bars.

This will be a huge help. Don't worry about anymore power upgrades until these are done. Just my opinion.

 

Ya I wasn't going to bother with an uprated turbo until I have the tools to plant it. I'm a excellent driver, but I don't live near a track so rarely driven mountains roads must do. I mean the car is fun right now, but I want more from it. The power and set-up in harmony. Even Vettel won't come in first if he doesn't set up his car well. I'm hoping to get about 260-280 lbft of torque out of it. With a proper clutch, LSD, suspension, and tire combo I think the MINI will just be silly fun.