In the modern-day auto industry, parts sharing is standard practice. Mini Cooper engines are either BMW engines or developed by BMW for the Mini brand.
Among the three car brands owned by BMW, Mini Cooper represents the youthful, urban-friendly option, while Rolls-Royce focuses on opulence and luxury. BMW stands in the middle as a premium offering with a clear emphasis on driving pleasure. While all three cater to different segments of the market, they still share components with one another. In the modern-day auto industry, parts sharing is standard practice, and Mini Cooper and BMW are no exception.
Most Mini Cooper engines are either straight-up BMW engines or developed by BMW for the Mini brand. During the early 2000s, the Tritec engine family was co-developed by BMW and Chrysler, yet within the BMW umbrella, it remained unique to Mini. The later Prince engine era was a direct consequence of a BMW and Peugeot-Citroën (PSA) joint venture. The current era of Mini engine technology relies heavily on BMW’s B-series of engines, more specifically the B37, the B38, and the B48. All three of these are very similar to what you can find powering many contemporary BMWs.