Hello folks,

Having been the very fortunate recipient of one of the first R56 models to be delivered in the USA (2007 MCS R56 Mellow Yellow S), I wanted to put down some of my impressions of the car. I was responsible for the break in mileage (completed over the weekend) and I must say I am IMPRESSED! The car was driven on backroads, freeways, gravel, ice, snow, etc. to insure I could give an accurate account of the car in each situation. At no point did I feel the car was victim to early production syndrome of squeeks, rattles etc. (since my car was produced in early December I had been nervous it might be like early R53 models.)

Being fully aware that the revamped exterior looks are a love it or hate it I will stay mostly away from that topic other than to say I think the car looks great in person. The photos don't do it justice. It is an evolutionary change that is similar to the changes to MKI-MKIV classic MINI's. It is not an abomination by any means.

The interior is GREAT. The seats are far more comfortable, the materials far more expensive in feel and appearance, and the revised center stack is really neat. Admittedly, the controls are different than the earlier model, but after a hundred miles they become second nature. Nothing to write home about. The improved on board computer has some excellent new features as does the audio system. The integration between speedo, tach and radio is really nice. Plus the push to start feature and ignition fob are by far the coolest! Comparing it to the Mercedes, Honda and Corvette with similar ideas, this by far the best adaptation of the keyless concept. Mood lighting is really neat as well. Match you lights to your clothing, aftermarket radio, favorite energy drink etc. Nice touch!

This powerplant is far more tractible and linear than the S/C model before it. A common misnomer is that any turbo will produce significant lag. BMW has done an exemplary job of choosing an appropriate sized turbo for this application. Combined with the lighter flywheel and sport mode the power is smooth and responsive. RPM builds far faster than in the R53. However, this turbo will also signify a significant hurdle in terms of making much larger increases in power without a complete change. We will have dyno results very soon with the stock turbo etc., then more shortly thereafter with our first performance mods. (look to www.altaminiperformance.com later today or tomorrow for the first R56 mods available to purchase.) Our R&D department is very excited that this model will allow us opportunity to use our familiarity with turbocharged applications. Taking from our many years of experience with other turbo models ( check out our sister brand at www.perrinperformance.com ) expect to see serious innovation and exclusivity to ALTA with this model. (R53 owners don't fret, we are even more dedicated to this model than ever before. As more R53's fall out of warranty as well as the resale values are finally starting to fall, allowing a greater population to adopt them as a platform for performance, the need for more parts grows greater each day.)

The suspension on this model is of course very similar to the R53 with some marked differences that have already been discussed. I will say that the balance from the factory is better than the R53 and is an excellent jump off point for improvement. I have had some limited seat time in the car with our new rear sway bar and I can say that it still makes a huge improvement. Any of the remaining understeer is completely eliminated. In addition to the sharper throttle response with the sport mode activated, the steering wheel feel is tightened and response heightened. Having first used this technology in my 03 M3 SMG, I can accurately say that the execution in the MINI is really well done. We should hopefully have photos later this week with both coilovers and springs to share with the group. This car has TONS more fender gap than the R53 and it unfortunately gives it a more gangly look. But lowering the car will bring back that appearance of sportiness found on the earlier car. We have a ton of new suspension bits coming for the R56 and many will be available on our website later this week.

Please find the photos attached below showing the car and the progress we have already made. More photos and information will follow in this thread, the Q&A thread and our website.

Also, if I can answer anyones questions please let me know. Finally, check us out Thursday night 9-11pm EST on www.motoringfun.com. We will be discussing this car as well as other upcoming ALTA products and events.

UPDATE 2/21/07: Many R56 specific items are already available on our website at www.altaminiperformance.com. Please note items will ship later next week so any order placed should arrive within 2 weeks. Also, see sneak photos of these new products below. We are very excited to share these new parts with NAM. Your combined patronage is appreciated and we look forward to even more with this new model!

 

More photos: