Mini Cooper 500 S Demonstrator Homed at Mini Sport, the Cooper 500 model has gained recognition as the 6th from last Mini to ever be built by Rover before production ceased in 2000. It has been suggested that the classic shape and styling of the Cooper 500 encapsulated the iconic character of the 60’s mini with contemporary edges in the interior and wheel design, which brought about the modern twist – relevant to the cars birth era.
The Conversion
Working closely with the Cooper Car Company as the UK agent for the nostalgic car part and accessory brand, the decision was made to fully convert the 500 with a John Cooper 1275 tuning kit and an exciting range of Cooper parts and accessories, adapted from the unique specifications of the original Cooper brand to improve performance and re-establish the nostalgic styling of Cooper in it’s golden age. Converted by our in-house specialists this project has been a continuous enterprise over the last couple of months with progress, power and economy monitored through the Maha Rolling Road.
For the Cooper 500 conversion we have used the John Cooper 1275cc MPi conversion kit. This engine kit increases power output to 90bhp and is available on our website or in-store as a supply and fit kit only. The kit encompasses a range of parts developed and designed to improve performance. This includes a larger valve, a ported S stage cylinder head, a high performance exhaust and improved fuelling and induction components amongst other beneficial features. Further modifications made in the engine bay included the installation of a modified Blue Cooper cylinder head, 1.5 John Cooper rockers and rocker covers, cap and T-bars plus the stainless steel Cooper Dipstick – a nice finishing touch to the engine bay.
Interior & Exterior
In regards to interior styling the Cooper 500 was upgraded with a whole host of new Cooper accessories, manufactured exclusively by the Cooper Car Company who channelled inspiration from the original furnishings of Cooper cars. This included the exclusive collection of John Cooper gauges and clocks, re-launched in association with Smiths earlier this year. Other additions included a Cooper Alloy billet door furniture kit, complete with the door lock covers and door opener handles in Black.
Cooper seat adjuster bracket, stainless steel doorsill edgings and a Cooper alloy billet gear knob in Silver. Cooper Monza type chrome fuel caps, Cooper winged bonnet and boot badges and a dummy tank filler neck to give the classic perception of having two fuel tanks.
