The Mini One and Mini Cooper were available with a ZF VT1F continuously variable transmission or with a conventional Midlands five-speed manual transmission (model years 2001-2004) the later was replaced with a Getrag five-speed unit for the remainder of the Mk I production (2005–2006). The Cooper Scame with a six-speed Getrag manual or (starting with the 2005 model year) a fully automatic transmission with paddle shifters.
As standard, the Mini had a drive by wire electronic throttle, electronic brakeforce distribution, cornering brake control and electronic stability control (standard or optional, depending on model and region) to improve control and handling in adverse conditions.
The addition of a supercharger to the Mk I Cooper S required that the battery be relocated into the rear of the car leaving no room for a spare tyre, hence this model comes with run-flat tyres as standard.