Here’s a detailed description of the R53 Cooper S with the 1.6 litre supercharged engine and the automatic gearbox—covering key specs, what to look out for, and some maintenance tips.

Key Specifications

Engine & aspiration

• Engine: 1.598 L inline-4 (code W11B16A) with a supercharger (Roots/Eaton M45) and intercooler.  
• Power: ~168 hp (170 PS) for later R53 Cooper S models.  
• Torque: ~220 Nm (≈162 lb-ft) around 4,000 rpm.  
• Drive layout: Front-wheel drive.  
• Supercharger drive: The supercharger is belt-driven off the crankshaft (ratio ~2.06) to produce high rpm.  

Automatic Gearbox

• Transmission type: 6-speed automatic (torque converter) – for the R53 Cooper S model.  
• Manufacturer: Aisin (model GA6F21 / TF60SN) commonly noted.  
• Gear ratios (typical for 6-speed auto in such MINI/BMW group cars):
  
• 1st: ~4.04:1
• 2nd: ~2.37:1
• 3rd: ~1.56:1
• 4th: ~1.159:1
• 5th: ~0.852:1
• 6th: ~0.672:1
• Reverse: ~3.193:1   
• 
  
• Performance (auto version): 0-100 km/h ~7.7 s (for 2005/2006 auto Cooper S) with top speed ~220 km/h.  

Other Notables

• Compression ratio: ~8.3:1 (due to supercharging).  
• Typical kerb weight: ~1,160 kg (for the automatic version) depending on equipment.  
• Fuel/consumption: For auto versions, ~10 L/100 km (or ~11 km/L) under mixed conditions for the 2005 model.  

Strengths & Appeal

• The supercharged 1.6 L engine gives strong mid-range torque and unique character (distinct from turbocharged setups).
• The compact, sporty chassis of the R53 gives very engaging driving dynamics.
• Having the 6-speed automatic (rather than CVT or older 4/5-speeds) in the Cooper S is a stronger choice for performance & longevity. (As noted: the R53 Cooper S automatic is the 6-speed torque-converter Aisin, not a CVT)  

Things to Check / Weaknesses

Supercharger & engine related

• The supercharger (Eaton M45) and its components (bearings, drive belt, oil reservoir, pulleys) can be wear points especially if not serviced. Some owners report whining noises or failure due to neglected service.  
• Ensure the engine has been well maintained: regular service, oil changes, coolant system in good shape.

Automatic Transmission

• Though the Aisin 6-speed is generally better than the earlier CVT units, it still requires proper maintenance—transmission fluid changes at proper intervals, checking for shifting issues (hard shifts, slipping, delayed engagement). If fluid/filter are neglected, failures (valve body, solenoids) may result.  
• When buying a used one: check whether it’s indeed the 6-speed Aisin rather than older/less desirable autos or CVTs. One common error is mis-identifying.  

General Age/Use Items

• The car is roughly 15-20 years old now, so suspension bushes, arms, mounts, and other wear components may need replacement.
• Front-wheel drive + high torque = watch for transmission/axle/joint wear.
• Cooling system (radiator, fans, hoses) should be scrutinised, as overheating could impact engine/transmission lifespan.

Maintenance Tips

• Supercharger service: Change supercharger oil at recommended intervals (some owners suggest ~100,000 km or sooner) to avoid bearing/pulley issues.
• Automatic transmission fluid: Use the correct ATF (often MINI ATF JWS 3309 spec) and change approximately every 60-100k km (or earlier if heavy use).  
• Engine oil & coolant: Use quality fluids, monitor for leaks, make sure cooling system is in good order (especially given the forced induction).
• Regular inspections: Suspension, rubber mounts, drive axles, wheel bearings, brakes (given the performance potential).
• Check car’s history: For a used R53 with this setup, find records of major services (supercharger, transmission fluid, belts, hoses) and confirm that the automatic is the 6-speed Aisin version.

Summary

If you’re describing or evaluating a MINI Cooper S R53 (1.6 L supercharged) with a 6-speed automatic gearbox, you can summarise it as:

''This is the first-generation MINI Cooper S (R53) powered by a 1.6 litre supercharged engine (~170 PS, ~220 Nm) driving the front wheels via a 6-speed Aisin automatic transmission. It offers spirited performance (~0-100 km/h in ~7.7 s for the auto), strong mid-range punch from the supercharger, and the engaging MINI go-kart chassis. Key things to verify: supercharger service history, correct automatic gearbox (Aisin 6-speed), fluid change history and general maintenance given the car’s age.''

If you like, I can pull up a detailed spec sheet (gear ratios, service intervals, known faults) specifically for the Malaysian market (or right-hand drive version) for your region. Would you like that?