Hi,

When researching I noticed that the two cars (Mini & BMW) both share the same exact engine, the B48. In the X1/X2 it put out like 228hp, in the Countryman S like 190hp I think, and in the 3-series it puts out north of 250hp. 3-series engines are a dime a dozen so I was wondering, is it just plug and play to locate a BMW B48 from a 3-series one and toss it into the Mini?

The brings to mind the following questions:
1. Are the All4 AWD system and manual trans rated to handle this modest extra power?
2. Plug & Play or major electronics issues if attempting this swap?
3. Any internal parts or other major differences in the Mini B48 vs the BMW B48 motors?
4. Any others attempt this?? Cant see why not, seems an easy way to add reliable hp!

 

I think the engine is identical, just different tuning. Many people flash the ECU to get 280-300 hp with stock engine.

 

The X1/X2 run the old JCW engine (still found in the JCW 3-door hatch). So if you go that route, you’re looking at retrofitting a 3-door hatch JCW engine into a Cooper S. That will be very costly, no doubt, and likely an electronics nightmare. Much better off getting an aftermarket ECU remap and getting more horsepower and torque than either the X1/X2 or the 3-series. Check out the very long reviews thread on this site of Mario Palza (aka MarioKart). You won’t be disappointed.

 

Yeah just have the ECU reprogrammed in your original car, much easier and cheaper. My R58 JCW was only $500.