Special Rides: The GUVNOR
Friday, May 9, 2008
The MINI is one of the iconic cars of the world. Very desirable and yet full of personality. There are two distinctive versions of the MINI; The MINI Cooper and the MINI Cooper S. Then there is this John Cooper Works MINI Cooper S.
The JCW is a special edition of the MINI, with only 500 unit production worldwide. The highlights of the John Cooper Works accessory program include the exclusive aerodynamics package and sports chassis with active sports plus shocks and springs finished in red for the MINI John Cooper Works, as well as perforated brake discs and rear spoilers for the model version. Other items include a suspension cross-brace for the engine compartment, mirror caps in chrome/carbon finish and so-called side scuttles “direction indicator surrounds with a sporty grid structure. To match this there are also decor strips, handbrake handles and sports gearshift levers in carbon decor which provide an even sportier ambiance. The gear shift indicator in the John Cooper Works accessory program also contributes to an intensive driving experience. Lets just say this the high-high end version of the MINI Cooper.
Aaron Lee is the proud owner of this rare beauty. He bought the JCW MINI Cooper S in
This JCW MINI Cooper S was not left at stock for too long. With major upgrades under the hood, there’s no lack of performance. Here’s the break down. The supercharged 1.6Liter motor is upgraded with Alta Version II 17% Reduced S/C pulley and Alta 3% Oversized Lightened Crank pulley to increase the throttle response. Alta Air Intake, itg airbox replacement filament and Radiator Silicone hoses were fitted on to the engine for better air induction. The ignition system was upgraded with MSD 50K voltage ignition coil pack with amplifier and Nology Hot plug wires. Exiting the engine is Milltek Exhaust system which features a manifold with sports cat, 2.75” mid pipe and cat back. The MINI has been dyno and the engine produces 235Hp. With that much horsepower and the light body, it will scare off most 2.0 cars.
The car has been lowered thanks to Eibach Pro kit springs and Full Bilstein gas shocks. JCW Strut Brace is installed to make the car handling a bit sharper. The MINI is fitted with 17inch staggered sport wheels wrapped in Bridgestone Potenza 215/40/17 tires.
I have ride with Aaron's JCW MINI Cooper S last meeting, and my opinion is..It is fast like hell..The sound of the supercharger spooling is simply heart melting experience and it handles like a gokart (super sharp handling)..It is surely changes my mindset on MINI's.
-The Interview
Carzine: What is your personal opinion on the John Cooper Work Mini Cooper S?
Aaron Lee: Many have slammed the JCW MCS car for its high price and lack of exterior differences from the stock MCS. Others have sung its praises as the ultimate (albeit expensive) factory-authorized MINI. I found that the answer lies somewhere between the two drastically different opinions. In fact, it really depends on what you want from the car and what you expect it to be.
Carzine: Why did u choose a JCW MINI Cooper S?
Aaron Lee: My very first thought after watching the showcase of the JCW in the Italian Job and driving the JCW MCS: WOW!!!. The engine felt as if it had lots of reserve power in every gear - almost an odd sensation for the MINI. In fact, cruising at 70mph and punching it in 6th gear gives a similar sensation to cruising at 40mph and punching it in 4th gear with a standard Cooper. Further, going from 4th to 3rd and then punching it at 70mph is absolutely exhilarating. On the other end of the spectrum, it's hard not to feel cool blipping the throttle going from 3rd to 2nd knowing you have all that power at your disposal at any time. In an MC, or even to some degree an MCS, it's there but just not always immediate. In the JCW S you're really never concerned about where the engine is within the rev range.
Another sensation that is almost un-MINI-like is having to properly modulate your power delivery out of turns so you don't scrub away too much of that newly found acceleration. Exiting corners is pure joy in this car. Where the MCS is eager, the JCW S is just plain rapid. Certainly we can thank the more robust power band for this sensation. Simply put power everywhere and you don't need to work at all to get it. Quite a change from the MNI Cooper and even the MINI Cooper S.
And that power is something that proves to be not only satisfying but also very addictive. The MINI has always turned and stopped very well. However, the JCW S is almost an epiphany with its power.
Carzine: What do you think about the performance you can get the JCW kit provides and more from the Aftermarket parts?
Aaron Lee: Well yes - you certainly can achieve similar figures using products from the growing number of reputable aftermarket companies that specialize in the new MINI. I've experienced a couple MCSs with aftermarket pullies, exhausts, and reprogrammed ECUs and found there to be a subtle difference between them and the JCW S. Both are powerful and incredibly fun to drive, but the JCW S felt a bit more polished and seemed to have a more linear powerband. It feels as if it came that way from the factory. Having driven an MCS with 200hp+ derived from an off-the-shelf mix of components, I can say the big advantage that the JCW S has (beyond the warranty) is its seamlessness. Along those lines it also seems to have an almost a perfect amount of power for the rest of the stock components.
In the end, the advice I'd give to someone thinking about the JCW S would really depend on their individual situation. For those that have no problem with the expense and like the idea of a warranty, I think it's a no-brainer. On the other hand for a MINI owner that is wanting the biggest bang for their buck, its frankly not the best choice. It's also not the ideal choice if you'd rather be more adventurous with your modifications.
Carzine: Do you intend to sell the car in the future?
Aaron Lee: The thought of selling my first true love is heart wrenching. Any true enthusiastic MINI owners regardless of make will definitely find it hard to part with such an icon let alone a dream drive sports compact in the 1.6L mark. The possibility of selling GUVNOR to anyone is going to be difficult but this is not to say never. Although my 4year old nephew has already called shotgun for keeps, so interested parties will definitely have to negotiate with him. :)
Carzine: Any Shout outs?
Aaron Lee: CLUBMini Australia ( www.clubmini.com.au )
Big shout out to all new and old friends/members of the ClubMini WA. Especially the boys (Jason, Mike Clarke, Adrian, Marcus Wilson) that i had the opportunity to worked closely with during the early days of the club to organize events and run routes for our many road trips.
I'll never forget our insane comic of a service mechanic manager Marco Baroni from Auto-Classic Western Australia. Thanks for keeping all our MC and MCS in good working order and covering up our trails when cops visit the dealership to inquire about the few insane minis that let loose on the roads breaking the law. HAHA... U're a champion Marco!
TYRE - MART
Firstly I'd like to thank the team of Tyre-Mart for welcoming me with open arms every time to check on my car's setup. They're never short of first class service, and stock top notch handling upgrades. i.e. - branded / tuning shocks, springs and A-class tyres. haha... sorry for pitting in unnecessarily every two week for a check.
TRILLIUM CAR SALON:-
I'd also like to extend a warm thanks to the crew at Trillium for keeping my ride in immaculate condition on the frequent occasions I get my MINI waxed, detailed or washed. Thanks... Every time i collect my car it looks like it brand new.
Lastly I'd like to thank the editor and those responsible for nominating my Mini as Carzine's Special Ride choice.
I'd love to see MINIs old and new unite for a catch up together!
Kindly note that for any modification upgrades people can email me on guvnor.lee@gmail.com or call me on 8729955 for Milltek, Tubi and Alta Mini Performance and upgrades for almost any car.
[More Galleries:] click image to enlarge
-Exterior Pics
-Engine Bay
-Interior Pics
-The Memory Lane
Special Thanks to Aaron Lee for showing us his limited edition John Cooper Work MINI Cooper S.
More Special rides soon..Stay Tuned for more..Only exclusive here in Brunei-Carzine Blog
May 9, 2008 3:19 PM
R U SERIOUS??? That this thing is a JCW? trying to control my constant salivation!!!
Damn son, that thing is a proper mean a$$ looking ride. RESPECT YO! Don't worry about taking any other rides on dude. This is a pure classy/aggressive looking MINI that is a definite head turner without a doubt.
Your ride has certianly tickled my fancy.
May 9, 2008 3:32 PM
Whats so different about a John Cooper Works MINI to MCS?
That ride looks off the hook man!
Carzine:
1.) Does this car have good torque and/or response?
2.) What on does GUVNOR mean? How did you come across this MINI?
3.) Is this car really supercharged? *scratching head* ... never knew these lil things have that much potential upgrade.
May 9, 2008 3:44 PM
Just one word springs to mind...
"illegal"
Probably why its extremely desireable.
Don't let the cops getcha, Guv!
hehe
May 9, 2008 4:08 PM
When i 1st step inside the car its like normal u know..but when it push the throttle..damn alot of torque at the low rev until the high rev..seriously its fast..i have drove
a lot of sports car lately,this mini can cope up with the big guns..this thing is wicked..for a light weight car & 235 supercharged engine..u do the math!!
About the GUVNOR..it's best ask the owner =)
May 9, 2008 5:06 PM
wow... Sounds like a bad ass car. I'd love to see this thing in action. I'm sure i'd smoke it in my M3.
Nice ride man...
May 9, 2008 6:27 PM
I know... I would also smoke this in an M3, if I had one, but that really is besides the point, buddy.
Charles.
May 9, 2008 8:11 PM
nv said,
a normal MCS (R53) is a supercharged 1.6L engine doing about 163bhp. but with a JCW. John Cooper Works upgrade - John Cooper was involved in Formula 1 back in the 60s and Sir Jackie Stewart and Bruce McLaren (McLaren F1 team) were previous drivers - comes with a bigger supercharger, ported head, uprated cat-back exhaust system and an ecu remap to advance the iginition timing - producing circa 210 bhp.
Note the newer MCS (R560 is a turbocharged 1.6L peugeot engine producing 175 bhp.
But boy, aarons car look the part! looks like a GTi slayer to me! hahaha. btw it weight about 1,200kg...having 235 bhp means its riding close to 200bhp per tonne. Almost like an evo!
Well done bro...cant wait to catch you on the road!
May 9, 2008 9:17 PM
Hey dudes..Wow a debate..hehe..i wanna see the MINI drag race with the M3..lets see if the M3 can smoke it..if not, u will be the one who get smoke(makan asap hehe)..German Vs Uk..that will be the headlines..
sadly no drag strip here..
cheers..
May 9, 2008 9:52 PM
Never knew this JCW is the cream of the crop of the MINIs... Apart from the obvious badges can you distinguish a JCW from a stock MINI when confronted by one?
Hmmm... the owner is fairly quiet ay. haha! dude, if u are reading my posts this car of yours is pretty serious stuff man. U have earned my proper respect definitely dude.
Two words: Bow Down!
Which moron compares an M3 to a 1.6L??? it makes no sense man... how do you compare an apple to an orange.
U have my support bro if u are reading this. ;)
May 9, 2008 10:12 PM
Dude...
First off, this is an insane lil hatch you have man! I would dare say this is the sexiest MINI i have come across in this part of the hemisphere.
Dun get put off by those who mock ya. I'll testify that you've officially blown me off when i breathed up your bum on the coastal highway two weeks back in my E46 328i.
God knows u burnt me on the open 200M stretch, but thats good enough for me even when i caught up and left you behind. ;)
Whoever the M3 comparison dude is... please note you are a tool. These are two diff cars man... FR vs FF, not to mention the leap in transmission technology, engine capacity and BHp.
GUVNOR is the Bomb!
May 9, 2008 10:21 PM
hey guvnor...
whats your nephew's name? Can i trade some chocs with him for your ride? hehe... i'd need to learn to drive a stick properly.
he must be a car fanatic like his uncle. i love your ride... my cuzs and girlfriends blow your car and you a kiss. ;)
Ally
May 9, 2008 10:23 PM
The photo of the mini is all good bro...about M3 vs the mini, i have seen M3 around, i've seen it driven fast, acceleration look good.. can't remmember the colour,loud exhaust...may be the person who own the M3 would showcase his car on Carzine..
May 9, 2008 10:26 PM
BAN THAT CAR FROM OUR ROADS!!!!
hehe... its beyond illegal!
LOL! Gorgeous machine... the next best thing out of the UK after an Aston DBS.
May 9, 2008 10:28 PM
hahaha. MINI vs. M3... that is hilarious...1.6L 4pot vs. a V6.
Heck, lets just put a swift and a lambo on the drag strip together!
btw nv, u wont be able to tell the difference between a normal mcs and a jcw without the badges. but if u do look closely, the jcw do come in a 2pot (if im not wrong) jcw brakes in red calipers. aaron has them as well it looks like.
oh and the MINI is actually a bmw, but the R53 has a chrysler engine made in brazil and put together in a factory in oxford!
May 9, 2008 10:29 PM
apologies...the M3 u have might be a straight six...
May 9, 2008 11:26 PM
wow... fiesty lil segment ay.
i can't stop reading up on this special ride column and especially drooling at the pics.
the photographer and the car were fit for the occasion. anymore pics??
Editor... lets do a who spotted this mini comp.
May 10, 2008 12:11 AM
Check it out..The GUVNOR is a blockbuster hit..The owner is shy already to say anything here now hehe..
Anyways..if u guys have a MINI or MINI cooper S...Aaron can hook u up with lots of performance parts for it..just email him guys..
Enjoy the pics guys..we have put so much effort to make this segment a hit..
Thanks for your support.
Kindest Regard,
Carzine
May 10, 2008 12:29 AM
I want that bada$$ rims and bodykits on my MCS! :P
May 10, 2008 12:58 AM
Guys,
Thanks for the numerous comments and especially compliments out there. It means a great deal to both the editor and I.
Carzine managed to sweet talk me alongside with a good friend of mine to share my pride and joy with you. This lil boy has more sentimental value than i can ever piece together during my ups and downs.
As per mentioned previously if there are any MINI owners who are seeking upgrades don't hesitate to inquire. My mod recommendations will give you bang for your buck.
Lol... BM_E46: thanks for being such a "batu api". haha... if anyone starts bugging me on the road i will hunt you down. :P~~
Can wait to meet up with other MINI owners and especially to my newly established mate "mumman_stk" who's monster is due back this year.
Again to all thanks for being so kind... keep all your comments and questions coming. happy to entertain your Qs and comments.
Lets make this first SPECIAL RIDE segment one to remember for the editor.
Rgds,
Guv
May 10, 2008 1:03 AM
You can all reach me on the listed email addy and/or cell number as per CARZINE's highlight in the feature.
If u need performance or aesthetic upgrades or even advise please do not hesitate to ask me. :)
I can assure to source you the best deals and quotes for your MINI.
Happy to help
May 10, 2008 1:15 AM
AARON!!!
Finally you show case your damn sweet ride after 1.5 years ay. haha... its such a sexy car. I get the chills every time i see it out and about.
The set of Millteks on top of your JCW really sends shivers down my spine bro. Mine sound good but not aggressive enough like yours. sigh!
MINI owners and readers out there, I sourced my 19% reduced S/C pulley, exhaust, Pirelli tyres and ECU upgrade from the GUVNOR. The price was very reasonable and am highly recommending his valued service and help to enthusiast.
Millteks manifolds with exhausts bare a premium because they are a hand-made premium performance product.
Cya on the road or at Tyre-Mart buddy. ;)
May 10, 2008 1:20 AM
ayan: I have a set of Breyton Magicsport that i am willing to let go at Tyre-Mart.
They are the 18s x 7.5" fitted with Pirelli P-Zero Dragons 215/35/18
Let us know if you are keen. ;)
May 10, 2008 1:26 AM
Where can I view this mean machine and those Breytons?
After viewing your MINI i've decided to buy the MCS as USED CAR DEALER!
What can i do to it? My budget for upgrades is 6K max. I'll email and call you tomorrow to meet you if its ok. :)
Heard you're the man from a friend.
Shar98
May 10, 2008 2:40 AM
its really pleasing to know this feature is gauging an interest from the ol' MINI. what better way to do it with this top car!
and as for challenges and comparisons, i think i agree with sputnik's post in the teaser column. this community isn't about whose got the biggest HP or whose got the longest c*** but its about our dedication, passion, sacrifice (money, time, thoughts!) and for the sheer love of our rides. and from what i can see with aarons car...it sure has its fair share of it!!
keep it up guys, not just MINI owners out there, but everyone.
next stop...we need to lobby for a legal track!
ps: aaron...cant wait to have it back home too bro! the guvnor and MINI-me...it will be a MINI adventure!
May 10, 2008 3:52 AM
first of all.. aaron! if ur reading this... looking good in ur Mini (which is also looking good) =)
uh clueless bout cars, but looking good haha
Go carzine for the discerning choice in interviewee and topic ;)
May 10, 2008 7:14 AM
Wow...
I never knew MINIs had this much potential to look this good.
Very sexy, classy and stealthy looking car. :)
Simply Breath Taking!
Lisa.D.M
May 10, 2008 9:57 AM
Oh nooo! I have to bribe adam now ??? LOL. Guvnors looking mighty fine in those pics luv, dont sell it :P I'm happy that guvnor is no longer Lola *giggles*
May 10, 2008 11:22 AM
Does this MINI have a split personality or something???
haha... LOLA and GUVNOR?
someone explain!
Sexy lil thing even if it had no name. hehe
Marul
May 10, 2008 3:57 PM
Oi Azza...
Greetings from Perth to you and readers!
First off much respect to the blog editor for showcasing the icon of WA. The car looks superb mate!
Wow, nice to know you haven't parted with GUVNOR. The club is doing well... you are missed by quite a few here, especially the ladies you seem to charm. ;)
U've gone mental on the Guvnor! Sigh! Its got enough done to it matie. lol... all you need now are wings.
Still emits a Gangsta persona. Your rep has not been matched to date. GUVNOR and BABES have sure set the bench as the "icon" for ClubMINI WA.
Anyways bro, keep it real, safe and know that you're a top-bloke and a fantastic mate.
God bless all in Brunei
Ps: Marcus is gettin married soon so come visit down under.
Bleeb Bleeb... "Slow down maggot"!!! (thats a hint for ya)
May 10, 2008 6:22 PM
Dui!
inda brapa jua MINI ani... mun ada banyak sudah di brunei. pfft! Cuba tah feature Aston Martin, Ferrari atau Lambo.
Nissan GTR32 ku lagi extoic. hahahaha
Kalu mau cuba lumba gi tau saja gavanor.
cari ku di IRC saja kalu u main irc ;)
Hj Paul aka Rd_Killa
May 10, 2008 7:22 PM
Sup sup sup Brunei!!!
Warm hello from Jakarta. I'm Adio one your coastal neighbours.
Pak Aaron, hahahaha.. loh, mobil kamu jagun to the max bro. dyno ratingnya dri PowerTech ya? Jgn di tambah lagi dong... dah cukup. ;)Sip?
Your friend's blogsite is not bad dude and Guvnor still looking tricked out as ever dude.
Carzine: Permission for us to create a hyperlink from our Mobil JKT and KL site?
Munman_stk: Nice to know u have a GTT Mini conversion. Give the guvnor a run for his life. haha!
I'm visiting brunei next month for work breifing in some town called Seria. Jauh nggak? look u up then bro...
Miss hanging out with you and the boys at Cottesloe beach!
Adios,
Adio
May 10, 2008 10:05 PM
Yo Aaron, Thats one of the sickest looking ride i've ever seen. Props man. Grats on making the mag :D Cheers
May 10, 2008 10:08 PM
Sweet as ride man...
Wish i had a mini dude!
Rd_Kill is a MORON... Come meet us STIs if you have balls numb nut!
Budoh... class lain kali ah.
Nol838
May 10, 2008 11:20 PM
This post has been removed by the author.
May 10, 2008 11:25 PM
Golly Gosh...
Since my last post at 1:20am this morning on the 10th MAY, the posting have grown by 11 posts to bring the total to 34 posts.
Its so nice to hear from long lost friends abroad and other randoms. Warm thanks to Melvin in Perth, Adio in Jkt, Alex in Melb (only u call me maggot), Dave (my chilli red bud) and aa.
To the critiques; i understand you have different tastes and preferences so its all good. :)
Carzine... this growing post is living proof that your work is well recognized mate. Like i said before you owe it to yourself buddy. :)
PS: Removed past post cos i mis-typed something.
May 11, 2008 1:22 AM
To adio partomo..u have my permission to make a hyperlink through your site =)
To Aaron..yeah dude...its all good hehe ;)
To Rd_killa..relax gang..hopefully i could feature some of the cars u mention. Its not that easy to find those cars & trying to sweet talk them to get into my blog..
To everyone..Thanks for checking this site..It feels great to know that u enjoy this site..
Regards,
Carzine
May 11, 2008 9:23 AM
Guvnor!
Greetings from Quebec,Canada.
Thats a mighty SWEEEET ride. It sure is bling-ed up and the shine is phenomenal.
I've got a 02 R53 Indy Blue MCS with the Hamann Engine conversion, cryo cooling mount, Qualfie, Alta pulley swaps and Shrick cam exchange. Raking in shy of 300Bhp.
Many MINIs in your part of the world? Love your photos from "Memory Lane" and am sure Carzine's photos isnt't doing your MINI much justice.
Carzine: Am sure the car looks better in person rite? Your shots are awesome ;)
Travis McHamil
May 11, 2008 10:31 AM
Sir Eh-ron,
haha... how's it going home boy? The MINI is looking very stealth like and sweet.
Drive it out more buddy... dun shell it away at home. pfft!
Btw thanks for sorting me out with new rubbers at Tire-Mart. Love the super sticky Pirelli. They did a good job :) Need a camber, alignment and balance today or during week.
May start going to the Delimma branch as it a stone throw from home.
Cya soon dude
Rick Ng
May 11, 2008 2:09 PM
Hello there, this is on behalf from someone u know..... he said u always 747 him.... and he said when u borrow him your car to drive and 1 last thing.... when u test run with his car..... hahahahaha....
May 11, 2008 5:44 PM
Please be more elaborate & specific.
May 12, 2008 11:10 PM
HOLY CRAP!
Carzine:
Is that thing legal in Brunei? Looks really kitted out not to mention insane.
I think i saw this MINI @ 2am one Fri/Sat morning running at least at 160km/h++ on the highway. Sounds like it has a lil monster under the hood.
Is the Aaron on the post up the real owner?
Munman_stk: you sound like you own a MINI or some sales man. haha... no offense!
Rgds,
Don Sazalee
May 13, 2008 10:53 AM
Nice Car!
;)
Secret Admirer
May 13, 2008 2:50 PM
One word,@
AWESOME ...
September 6, 2008 7:11 PM
I think this car is @ Trillium Car Salon in GDG over the weekend. It looks very different compared to the pics.
Carzine: Has the owner done something new to the car? LOL! Mcm lain bah tadi when i saw it at the shop...
Nice small car tapi mcm Swift ku. hahahaha
February 23, 2009 10:56 AM
Guvnor & Dr: Will Ciya On the Road..