The Mini Convertible (R57) facelift, produced from 2011 to 2015, represented a mid-cycle refresh of the second-generation convertible model. Within the R57 range, the Cooper SD 2.0 (143 hp) occupied a position as a fuel-efficient, torque-rich option aimed at buyers prioritizing economy and relaxed cruising over outright performance. This variant distinguished itself from the petrol-powered Cooper and Cooper S models, as well as the other diesel offering, the Cooper D, by offering a balance of power and efficiency suitable for both urban driving and longer journeys. It was positioned as a step up from the base Cooper D, offering more power and refinement.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mini |
| Model | Convertible |
| Generation | Convertible (R57, Facelift 2011) |
| Type (Engine) | Cooper SD 2.0 (143 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2011 |
| End of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Cabriolet |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.3 l/100 km (44.4 US mpg, 53.3 UK mpg, 18.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4 l/100 km (58.8 US mpg, 70.6 UK mpg, 25 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.5 l/100 km (52.3 US mpg, 62.8 UK mpg, 22.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 118 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 210 km/h (130.49 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.7 kg/Hp, 114.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.1 kg/Nm, 244 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 143 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 71.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 305 Nm @ 1750-2700 rpm (224.96 lb.-ft. @ 1750-2700 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | N47C20A |
| Engine displacement | 1995 cm3 (121.74 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 84 mm (3.31 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 90 mm (3.54 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 16.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.2 l (5.49 US qt | 4.58 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 5.4 l (5.71 US qt | 4.75 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1250 kg (2755.78 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1680 kg (3703.77 lbs.) |
| Max load | 430 kg (947.99 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 125 l (4.41 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 660 l (23.31 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 40 l (10.57 US gal | 8.8 UK gal) |
| Length | 3729 mm (146.81 in.) |
| Width | 1683 mm (66.26 in.) |
| Height | 1414 mm (55.67 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2467 mm (97.13 in.) |
| Front track | 1459 mm (57.44 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1467 mm (57.76 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 139 mm (5.47 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.7 m (35.1 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Tires size | 195/55 R16 87V |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 16 LM |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Cooper SD 2.0 utilized the BMW N47C20A engine, a 2.0-liter inline-four diesel engine. This engine was a cornerstone of BMW and Mini’s diesel offerings during the early 2010s. It featured common-rail direct injection, a turbocharger with an intercooler, and four valves per cylinder. The N47 engine family was known for its efficiency and relatively quiet operation for a diesel. The 143 hp output was achieved through careful tuning of the engine management system, balancing performance with fuel economy. The engine’s torque curve was particularly noteworthy, delivering a substantial 305 Nm (224.96 lb-ft) of torque between 1750 and 2700 rpm. This broad torque band provided strong acceleration in everyday driving situations without requiring frequent gear changes. The engine was paired with a 6-speed manual transmission, delivering power to the front wheels.
Driving Characteristics
The 143 hp Cooper SD 2.0 offered a distinctly different driving experience compared to the petrol-powered Cooper and the more powerful Cooper S. While lacking the outright punch of the petrol engines, the diesel provided a relaxed and effortless driving style. The abundant low-end torque made it easy to accelerate from a standstill or overtake slower traffic. The 6-speed manual transmission was well-matched to the engine’s characteristics, with gear ratios optimized for both fuel efficiency and usable performance. Compared to the Cooper D, the SD offered a noticeable increase in power and responsiveness, making it more enjoyable on longer journeys and winding roads. However, it wasn’t a sports car; the focus was on comfortable and economical motoring.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Cooper SD 2.0 typically came equipped with a reasonable level of standard features. These included air conditioning, power windows, central locking, and a basic audio system. Interior upholstery was generally cloth, although leather options were available. The dashboard layout was typical of the R57 Mini, with a large central speedometer and a smaller tachometer. Optional extras included a premium sound system, navigation system, heated seats, and various cosmetic enhancements. The convertible top was a fully automatic fabric roof, available in a range of colors. Specific trim packages could add features like chrome exterior trim, sport seats, and unique interior accents.
Chassis & Braking
The R57 Mini Convertible utilized a McPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension. This setup provided a good balance of ride comfort and handling. The Cooper SD 2.0, being a mid-range variant, typically featured slightly softer suspension settings compared to the sportier Cooper S. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) was standard. The chassis was reinforced to compensate for the lack of a fixed roof, maintaining a reasonable level of structural rigidity. The steering was a rack and pinion system, providing precise and responsive control.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Cooper SD 2.0 was generally well-received by automotive critics as a practical and efficient convertible option. It was praised for its fuel economy, comfortable ride, and strong torque output. However, some reviewers noted that it lacked the sporty character of the Cooper S. Compared to the Cooper D, the SD offered a worthwhile performance upgrade for those willing to pay the premium. Against competitors like the Fiat 500C and the Renault Mégane Coupé-Cabriolet, the Mini offered a more premium feel and a more engaging driving experience, albeit at a higher price point.
Legacy
The N47 engine family, including the N47C20A found in the Cooper SD 2.0, gained a reputation for being relatively reliable, although early versions were known to experience timing chain issues. Regular maintenance, including oil changes and timing chain inspections, is crucial for long-term reliability. Today, used examples of the R57 Cooper SD 2.0 are relatively affordable and represent a good value for buyers seeking a stylish and economical convertible. The combination of a fuel-efficient diesel engine and a practical convertible body style continues to appeal to a wide range of drivers.
