2006 Mini (R53) John Cooper Works

Highlights

• Desirable John Cooper Works spec
• 1.6-litre supercharged
• Two-sunroof model
• New Michelin Pilot Sport 5 tyres
• Recent service and MOT

Overview

The Mini Cooper S John Cooper Works (JCW) takes the already sporty and agile Mini Cooper S to another level with a factory-installed performance upgrade. Powered by a supercharged 1.6-litre inline-four engine, the JCW version boosts output to around 207bhp, significantly more than the standard Cooper S, making it one of the most powerful cars in its class at the time. The added power is complemented by a series of mechanical upgrades, including sport-tuned suspension for sharper handling, upgraded brakes for better stopping power, and a free-flowing exhaust system that enhances both performance and sound.

The JCW package includes aesthetic tweaks, such as unique badging and subtle aerodynamic improvements, yet retains the iconic Mini styling with its compact, retro-inspired design, making it a firm favourite among driving enthusiasts who appreciate its go-kart-like handling and quick acceleration.

This lovely 2006 example has covered just over 50,000 miles and boasts a nice service history, complete with the owner’s manuals. Recent work has been carried out to the suspension and brakes, leaving it in fine fettle for the next lucky custodian to enjoy

History and Documentation

• UK registered 31st March 2006
• V5C is present in the owner's name
• Full owner manual pack
• The service book has entries as follows: Oct 2010 @ 13,920 miles, Jun 2011 @ 18,970 miles, Apr 2013 @ 31,657 miles, Aug 2021 @ 49,972 miles, May 2018, mileage unrecorded, Sep 2023 @ 50,038 miles, Sep 2024 @ 51,468 miles
• Several invoices are present for work carried out, and various parts
• Low mileage for the age of the vehicle
• The MOT test was passed on the 10th September 2024
• HPI check was carried out on 15th August 2024 and had a clear result

Interior

• Black leather with a red fabric centre was the chosen colour scheme for this JCW interior
• There is a minor amount of colour wear to the bolster on the driver’s side
• The mainly red material rear seat is in good condition
• Both door cards are in good condition and free from scuffs
• The dashboard is in good order, and the Anthracite fascia has a nice finish
• Retaining the classic mini look, the speedometer is mounted in the centre and shows 51,490 miles with no warning lights displayed when the car is running
• The original head unit is in place, and all of the switchgear looks to be in good condition with no wear to the lettering and all are said to be working correctly
• The black carpets are in good condition throughout; there is a set of fitted mats with red edging to match the seats, which have a small amount of wear in keeping with the mileage
• The headlining is clean and tidy, with no sagging or staining around the two sunroofs
• Inside the boot is clean and tidy, and the original jack and wheel brace are in place

Exterior

• Finished in Pepper White with a gloss black roof and mirrors, the Mini presents very well; the paintwork has also been ceramic coated, helping give a high gloss shine
• Looking around the car, all of the shut lines appear to be matching
• The headlight and spotlights are in good condition, and the chrome surrounds have a bright finish
• All of the plastic wheel arches and sill trims look to be free from any scrapes or scuffs
• John Cooper Works badges are present and correct on the lower grille and boot lid
• The windows appear in good condition with no noticeable scratches
• Chrome door handles, wing trims, and rear light surrounds have a bright finish with no tarnishing
• The desirable twin-sunroof option was ticked on the options list
• Twin JCW stainless steel tailpipes are in good condition
• The original wheels have a few minor age related marks and a small amount of corrosion to some of the edges of the spokes
• Four new Michelin Pilot Sport 5 tyres have been fitted

Mechanical

• 1.6-litre supercharged four-cylinder engine
• The supercharged Mini pushed out approximately 207bhp and could go from 0-60mph in 7 seconds
• The JCW Mini fires up straight away with no hesitation and is reported by the vendor to run as it should
• The six-speed manual gearbox is a joy to use
• There has been a new upgraded expansion tank fitted, which is a common item that needs to be replaced
• New bushes have been fitted on some of the suspension components
• The front springs were replaced less than 2,000 miles ago, and new rear shock absorbers were fitted in 2019
• The seller advises that the supercharger has been serviced, a £400 job
• Front discs and pads were also fitted less than 2,000 miles ago
• The Mini handles and stops as you expect, with no issues reported by the vendor
• The underside has been futureproofed with a full clean, repaint where necessary and finished with clear Waxoyl

Summary

With its 207bhp, the compact Mini Cooper S JCW combines retro charm, high-performance engineering, and engaging driving dynamics. It is fantastic fun to drive, especially on twisty roads where its go-kart-like handling shines. Its sharp, precise steering and satisfying exhaust note add to the driving experience.

With only 51,490 miles on the clock, this well-maintained 2006 Mini Cooper S JCW offers a low-mileage example of a highly sought-after performance car. A partial refresh of the suspension and brakes ensures its legendary handling and braking are as sharp as ever, making it ready for spirited drives. Additionally, a recent service adds peace of mind for the next owner, ensuring the car is in top mechanical shape.

This JCW model, known for its powerful supercharged engine and agile driving dynamics, is now primed for a new chapter with its next driver.

To arrange a viewing, please request this in the Q&A section. You can click through to the seller's profile and use the 'Email Me' function to arrange a viewing privately. This seller is located in Brighton, Sussex.