What is the difference between a supercharged MINI Cooper and a Turbocharged?

Q: Anybody know? I know that they stopped making Supercharged in, like, 2006, right??? Thanks! :-)

A: The supercharger is always "on," and delivers a much smoother, more even application of power across the acceleration band. It does rob a little hp from the engine, as it is mechanically driven by the engine. A turbo runs from the exhaust gas, and it's application of power comes on a bit later (throttle lag) because it takes a moment for the turbo to spool up. It also produces more heat under the hood than a supercharger. You also don't get the awesome SC whine under acceleration.

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