Speaking of letting the good times roll, the Cooper S is very unlikely to - at least from side to side. With its stiff body, short wheel-base, superior safety features, and upgraded Dynamic Stability control which is part of the Sport Package (DSC III, compared to last years DSC II), the precise handling S is highly unlikely to tip over. Come to think of it, it hardly even leans when in a corner. Also introduced this model year is the Sport Suspension Plus, creating a more refined and tighter drive along bumpy and jumpy roads. Minimal body roll is felt in even the trickiest of turns. My favorite part of the week was taking a high-speed turn to demonstrate to my girlfriend

New for the 2004 model year is the Sport Suspension Plus, creating a tighter, sportier drive. (Photo: Alexandra Straub, Canadian Auto Press)

beside me how well the MINI handles. The shock on her face was all I needed to "hear," she too became convinced. The Sport Suspension Plus definitely feels more aggressive in comparison to the Cooper Classic, which has the Sport Suspension. Still, I have no complaints when it comes to ride quality. Steering too is stiffer, delivering more accurate turn-in, useful for weaving in and out of traffic.

With front ventilated and rear solid discs combined with ABS and Electronic Brake force Distribution, the Cooper S comes to a full stop quickly. (Photo: Alexandra Straub, Canadian Auto Press)

Having a decent set of brakes makes the S even safer than the regular Cooper, with front ventilated and rear solid discs combining with ABS and Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD) to enhance control in panic situations. Furthermore, dropping the short throw 6-speed manual transmission down a gear or two allows the engine's 155 lb-ft of torque to slow the S down in a flash, ideal during downhill driving.