I just joined the MINI forums because I am looking to purchase an MCS but I am stuck between the R53 and R56. I am currently a BMW owner and vendor on 5series.net. I sell Lighting upgrades for all BMWs, Mercedes, Audis, u name it and they are plug and play with no errors or flicker. I had the whole car redone and bought a Rieger Kit so the car sits VERY low. Just cracked a bumper too so I need a nice daily driver. I bought an Audi wagon as a beater and it wasn't cutting. It was slow, handling was bad and I don't even have fun driving an automatic. I had been looking around for a 2005 and a 2006 MCS but just not sure between which one everyone likes. Supercharger or turbocharger? Availability of performance mods? I know Dinan does the R53 but not the R56.

Thanks everyone and hopefully I will see everyone soon!

Here's my signature pic of my current E60:

 

You will probably get some spirited responses as there are fervent fans of both generations. I got the turbo and I really enjoy the way the torque comes on so strong just off idle. The turbo has a wider torque band and is more fuel efficient. The supercharger has that great sound. I'd strongly recommend that you drive both and see which appeals to you. Good luck in your search.

These MINI's are a blast to drive. I sold my BMW 3 series convertible to buy my '09 MINI S Convertible. Had a new 2010 328 loaner the other day. It was a very nice car - but not as much fun as my "go cart" MINI!!!

 

Yes I agree drive several examples of the supercharged R53 and turbo R56 and see which twist your tail the most and then find the one that got the stuff you want at a price you are willing to pay. What could be simpler??

 

I want something that I can squeeze more power out of. I had a 4 cyl Turbo before (EVO) so I know turbos are great and u can get cheap HP. But never had a supercharger. I now went to V8s went from a CLK55 AMG to a 545i. I get 13MPG on the 545i. Driving an Audi A6 Quattro Avant also kills on gas. I do quite a bit of driving since my business is mobile and I do install and deliver so I want something small, efficient, quick, handles well, mod-able, looks excellent, etc. I can't think of another car out there which has those features.

I am NOT driving in a Civic Si, VW GTi, R32 is nice but the looks of a MCS just beats it by far.

As far as JCW performance package, how much would that cost? I am sure there's a LOT more tuning companies out there which is cheaper right? I haven't research it yet. I don't even HAVE a Mini yet. LOL

I saw a white 2007 R56 with 20K miles for $17.5K. Is that a decent price? How much am I looking at for a 2007 MCS and a 2005 MCS?

Thanks!

 

Drove the white R56. Had an aftermarket exhaust and intake. Not sure what exhaust but A LOT OF DRONE!! And the intake looked like a pep boys intake. Car sure does look nice. Has BBS wheels.