As a car enthusiast, I’m always eager to learn more about the inner workings of different vehicles. Recently, I came across an intriguing subject: which Minis have Peugeot engines under their hoods? After conducting extensive research, I’m excited to share my findings on this topic with you!
A Brief History of Mini and Peugeot Collaboration
Many people are unaware that Mini and Peugeot have had a long history of collaboration. In fact, it dates back to when BMW purchased the Rover Group in 1994, which included the Mini brand.
In 2002, after launching the iconic new Mini, BMW decided to work with other leading car manufacturers, including Chrysler, Toyota, Groupe PSA (then known as PSA Peugeot Citroën) —the French automaker responsible for producing both Peugeot and Citroën models— on various engine projects.
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The Birth of Prince Engines Joint-Venture
This collaboration led to the creation of the “Prince” family of engines – a series of small-displacement inline-4 four-stroke petrol engines, produced by both BMW and PSA Peugeot Citroën. The joint venture lasted ten years, during which time the engines were used in numerous Mini, BMW, Peugeot, and Citroën vehicles. This partnership was officially dissolved in 2012, but its legacy lives on.
Which Minis Come With Peugeot Engines?
Now that we understand the origins of this unique relationship, let’s dive into which Minis have been equipped with Peugeot engines:
- Mini Cooper S (R56): Introduced in 2006, the second-generation Mini Cooper S came with a 1.6L turbocharged inline-4 Prince engine, producing up to 184 horsepower and 240 Nm of torque.
- Mini John Cooper Works (R56): A performance-oriented version of the R56 generation, launched in 2008, also featured a modified version of the same 1.6L turbocharged Prince engine, capable of delivering 208 horsepower and 280Nm of torque.
- Mini One (R56): The most basic variant of the R56 Mini lineup was powered by a naturally aspirated 1.4L four-cylinder Prince engine that produced 95 horsepower and 140 Nm of torque.
- Mini Clubman (R55): This shooting-brake-style wagon Mini debut in 2007 offered a range of petrol and diesel options including a top-of-the-line 1.6L turbocharged Peugeot-developed engine.
- Mini Countryman (R60): Launched in 2010, the first-ever Mini crossover model came equipped with a myriad of engine options, but only the more powerful models such as the Cooper S and John Cooper Works boasted the 1.6L turbocharged Peugeot-backed engine.
- Mini Paceman (R61): Essentially a three-door variant of the Countryman, the Paceman shared the same set of engines as its sibling—including the Peugeot ones—
Besides these specific Mini models, there are a few other examples of Peugeot engines powering variants such as the Coupe and Roadster. However, after the joint venture between BMW and Groupe PSA ended in 2012, newer generations of Minis utilize engines either sourced from or developed solely by BMW.
Prince Engine Reliability and Performance
Now that we know which Minis have Peugeot engines, the question arises: are these engines reliable? Additionally, how does their performance compare to other engine options?
Reliability & Known Issues
Peugeot’s Prince engines are known for their smoothness and responsiveness. However, as with any engine, they’re not perfect. Here are some common issues with these engines:
- N14 Turbo Units: The earliest 1.6L turbocharged units (used between 2006-2010) can be prone to excessive carbon buildup, leading to poor performance and potential engine damage.
- Cooling System Problems: Some owners reported issues with the thermostat housing either cracking or leaking, resulting in overheating problems.
- Camshaft Adjusters: Wear and tear on camshaft adjusters may lead to a noisy engine and potential failure on higher mileage vehicles.
- Chain Tensioner Failure: An improperly functioning chain tensioner may produce rattling noises at cold starts.
It is important to note that many of these issues were addressed in the later N18 versions of the engine (2010 onwards). Regular maintenance also plays a major role in preventing any failures or issues.
Comparing Performance with Other Engines
In terms of performance, Prince engines catered to both entry-level and performance-oriented Mini models during their time. Turbocharged variants offered brisk acceleration and strong mid-range torque, while naturally aspirated engines provided sufficient power in city traffic conditions. Overall, the performance of these engines has been considered quite satisfactory by most Mini owners.
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Aftermarket Upgrades:
For those seeking more performance and excitement, the availability of aftermarket upgrades such as exhaust systems, air intakes, intercoolers, engine remapping, or even turbocharger upgrades can unlock the full potential of these engines. Additionally, improved reliability is achieved through preventive maintenance and addressing common issues like cooling system upgrades or using higher-spec oil products.
In conclusion, if you’re considering purchasing a Mini with a Peugeot engine, understanding its history, strengths, and weaknesses can help you make an informed decision. Happy motoring!
About the author
Marcus Brown is editor-in-chief of The FatMech and is a mechanic with ten years' experience based in London, UK. Having worked for major dealerships for many years, Marcus now works for a local independent garage and has experience working on nearly every make and model of car. Marcus also has a passion for writing and teaching, which is where the idea for The FatMech came from. In his spare time, Marcus enjoys playing golf, doing home renovations and gardening. He lives just outside London with his wife and son.