The Independent American Magazine for all Mini Owners
Issue link: http://mc2.epubxp.com/i/33536
W hen it was first introduced back in 2000, the MINI was initially available with a 1.6 liter, supercharged 4-banger with 163 bhp, or a naturally aspirated version of the same engine, developing 115 bhp. As you might expect, it was the forced induction version mated to a manual stick shift that stole most of the spotlight. Drivers wanting an automatic transmission could opt for the shiftless, ZF CVT(continously variable transmission), but had to settle for the 115 bhp engine. Even so, despite the horsepower penalty that came with the normally aspirated engine, the stock R50 Cooper provided sprightly performance. Alas, it seems that there is ‘never enough power’ – a nearly universal refrain from automobile enthusiasts. Can the R50 MINI have a little more attitude, and perhaps performance added, using bolt on parts? The subject MINI is a 2003 R50 that is totally stock. Its young owner liked the car but wanted a bit more performance, and perhaps some auditory indication of the MINI’s sporty car heritage. It must be recognized that without significant internal modifications, basic engine parameters will limit the potential of bolt-ons to enhance output, however there is a huge aftermarket supporting modification of the MINI, and some worthwhile upgrades are available. Exhaust The R50 in question has accumulated approximately 90,000 km (55,923 miles), and the stock exhaust system had developed a couple of rust perforations in the outer casing of the muffler. With replacement likely necessary within a couple of years, and the stock jobber replacement system retailing for $258 CN (virtually par with the US dollar) locally, it seemed that an upgrade would provide a more distinctive note for the car with a relatively modest increase in financial outlay. An attractive, durable exhaust that was not too loud was the goal. Of the many aftermarket exhausts available, a Megan Racing (Model # MR-CBS-MC02NS) was selected. The price was $290 plus shipping. The system has 2.25 inch T-305 mandrel bent, stainless steel piping, with an oval muffler case and a slash-cut 3-inch tip. The quality and appearance of the TIG welds on the Megan Racing exhaust were very good. The product description indicated a low mellow tone with low interior resonance. Sounded like just the thing. The next task was to don the coveralls and get to work. When completing exhaust work, wear sturdy gloves to protect from getting bashed knuckles, and safety glasses/ goggles to keep falling grit from getting into the eyes. Securely elevate the car to allow for access, and room to slide the lengthy stock exhaust out. Prior to system removal, apply penetrating oil to all hardware, even days in advance of the job. Higher mileage cars will have significant corrosion on the factory exhaust system and hardware, so you can’t apply too much penetrating oil ahead of time. The Megan exhaust system is a cat-back set up and replaces all components after the catalytic converter. A flange directly behind the cat uses two 15mm nuts to retain Issue 32 MC2 Magazine 37 by Michel Tremblay easy diy Givi n m per f g a “ j or u e a n a c s nt a Cd a n o opere ” t en th ua dn e i c w a t e d An R50... Nifty!