Hi all, I recently purchased an '06 MCSa and I'm loving it. I know, it's an auto but the wife doesn't drive a stick. However I really like the paddles. After a couple of months I'm now thinking of some mods. I've read the 15% pulley is the most bang for the buck. But do I have to change to cooler spark plugs? Then exhaust... ball one? Borla? Magna flow? How much better is one over the other. Thanks, Mike

 

Hi, welcome to NAM and congrats on the 06. (Unfortunately, I'm one of the MINI drivers that just drive for fun and don't know one mod from another. But I'm sure that some of our tech NAMSTERS will be able to help you with your question. Good driving!

 

Thanks, It's fun stock, I agree but I like tinkering with whatever car I drive. Old habits are hart to break. Enjoy...

 

Welcome to NAM! I also have an MCSa, and have modded the engine with the 15% pulley, a UniChip, an ALTA CAI and boxtop, the ALTA Air Diverter, and a Milltek catback. I like the "burble" of the Milltek. I put the Denso Iridium plugs in, as well. I suppose the stock plugs would work, but the Densos just compliment the pulley more.

 

Thank you for the info. I was also looking at the Milltek (how is it on the highway?). Looks like you've done some nice up grades to your Mini. Thanks

 

Do you get a lot of burble? I get quite a bit with my JCW catback (more than I did with the stock exhaust), but not as much as a stickshift. I used to have popping when the car was cold and using the stock exhaust, but that went away with the JCW.

And welcome to slo-mini!

 

Actualy, yes, I DO get a lot of burble, but that's one reason I got the Milltek. It only happens as I decellerate, however, but I love that sound. I have a Helix13 on my MC, and THAT is really loud and drones while I drive. I can't say I like it that much, but it was all that I could afford [and that was in stock] when it was installed 3 yrs. ago. The Milltek is quiet while I'm driving, and I've grown accustomed to that nicety.