You are currently viewing our forum as a guest, which gives you limited access to view most discussions and access our other features. By joining our community, at no cost, you will have access to post topics, communicate privately with other members (PM), respond to polls, upload content and access many other special features. Registration is free, fast and simple, so please join our community today!
Looking to upgrade my '09 Mini Cooper Classic to handle on rails.
This is what I am thinking to start with:
1. Dunlop Direzza Sport Z1 Star Spec
2. IE 22mm adjustable hollow rear sway bar
3. IE Fixed -1.25 Camber Plates
4. TSW V3 Springs
Just a few questions:
-How much adjustability does the stock (non-S, non-Sport) suspension have in terms of alignment? (camber, caster, toe) Are the fixed plates a good investment?
-Will the stock dampers die with the TSW V3 springs? Will there be an increase in performance, or will the spring rates be too mismatched to cause a loss in performance?
-Is there a significant difference between Sport/S and non-Sport/non-S dampers?
I will move to upgraded dampers eventually, but not now. If the TSW springs are not worth the trouble with stock dampers, then I will wait until I move to say FSDs.
-Will this setup make the car handle significantly more neutral? Improve rotatability? (is that even a word?)
-How wide can I realistically run on the stock 15" alloys? Stock size is 175/65R15. Skinny tires, great for snow and mileage. Not so great for performance. Can I fit 195/60R15? 205/55R15 would to be too wide, right? Maybe I'll just spring for 16x7 aftermarket wheels and run 205/50R16 ...
Go with the adjustable camber plates and drop down to a 19mm sway bar. With the additional front grip you will get from the camber you won't need the larger bar.
And once the camber is set-up for your driving habits, you will get much better wear on the front tires.
