Of course, the 6-speed manual is even more enjoyable when shifting upward, letting the engine loose to show off its strong pulling power. The S didn't get any performance upgrades for 2004, but nevertheless it's still a peppy little supercharged 1.6-liter. Together

The Cooper S retains its peppy little 163-hp supercharged 1.6-liter engine for the 2004 model year. (Photo: Alexandra Straub, Canadian Auto Press)

with 16-valves, the SOHC inline-4 develops 163 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 155 lb-ft. of torque at 4,000 rpm. As fun as this engine is, more power is now available in an engine upgrade kit. The John Cooper Works engine kit will hit dealerships later this year that will boost the 163 horsepower engine to a whopping 200 horses. I think this may be my downfall!

The interior of the Cooper S is just as fashionable and funky as the exterior. (Photo: Alexandra Straub, Canadian Auto Press)

Aiding the sports car ride is a set of 205/45 R17 all-season run flat tires with 17-inch S-Spoke rims and fog lights, all part of the optional Sport Package. But standard sporty features like an air inlet on the hood, body-colored bumpers, chrome grille, fuel cap and surround for front headlamps and rear lights, xenon headlights, rear roof spoiler, chrome side air inlets with red "S" insignia, twin chrome exhaust tips decorating the lower rear fascia, all enhance its irrefutable style.

The interior is just as fashionable and funky as the exterior fascias and fenders. The cabin houses the trademark tachometer placed above the leather-wrapped steering wheel, and speedometer above the center instrument cluster. The front heated sport seats (optional) are dressed in leatherette (a no-cost alternative to the standard cloth), and extremely comfortable. Their 6-way adjustability benefits the bum and back, while leather is optional.