Just got my 09 MCS 6MT in Pure Silver this past weekend and just in time for Minis at the Dragon. Unfortunately, I have to take it easy in the break-in period. Initial impression is it is a great car for the great roads we have in East Tennessee. The previous ride was an 07 Miata, so hopefully the Mini will be comparable as I adjust to it.

Couple of pics.

 

Welcome to NAM.That's a great lookin' MINI you have there!

 

congrats..welcoem to the club

 

I, also, owned a Miata.
I think you'll find the MINI to be a hardtop Miata.
Just a little better!

 

nice choice.... my brother has an r53 with the same paint scheme

 

I kinda want a R56 and get it RMW tuned to 33ft lbs of torque and 30whp on a stock R56.

https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...sville-ky.html

 

Thanks for the welcome!. New forum, new car, starting over with mods & such.

So far I agree with the "hardtop Miata" analogy. Yesterday, I was up on the Dragon trying to see what I can expect in the corners. While still taking it easy, I hit the curves pretty good. It does a good job overall though I am still trying to adjust to the dynamics of FWD. On normal roads I love it. Great ride, easy acceleration, quiet when the windows/sunroof closed, and fantastic gas mileage. Though only 6 more hp than the Miata, it feels much more powerful and more easily reaches higher speeds.

I think I'm going to really enjoy it long term.

Now if I only knew about the ECU upgrade required for the ipod adapter I installed Tuesday night.