For some brave souls, fast just isn't fast enough. For them, I have a suggestion: Check out a Mini Cooper S John Cooper Works Edition.
This is the latest model offered by the folks at Mini, and for about $5,000 above sticker price, you order a standard Mini Cooper S, and when it arrives, the dealership gets busy transforming it into the John Cooper Works Edition.
The cars look innocent enough; there's no huge telltale graphics on the flanks of the car, oversize spoiler or other hints to warn other drivers away from this little terror.
The Mini Cooper S, even before this special package is installed, is a pretty fast car. The new car is even faster, hitting 60 in about 6.5 seconds. Top speed is over 140 miles per hour! Remember, this car only weighs 2,700 pounds and the Cooper Works package adds 37 horsepower to bring the little engine's to 200.
The package consists mainly of an upgraded Eaton Supercharger, an airflow system to make for easier engine breathing, and an improved engine cylinder head.
Price on this car is anywhere from $26,000 to more than $31,000, depending on how you equip it. Mileage is 24 city, 33 highway.
First Published: June 16, 2004, 4:00 a.m.