I am new to the forum (seems like a great group!) and just about to buy my first MINI... finally... damn kids ....anyway my toughest decision (besides whether to wrap everything in checkered flags) is turbo or no turbo. My research seems to show the turbo or past supercharged version to be more problematic than the non S versions. I would love to hear some thoughts or if someone could point me to a previous thread about the subject I would appreciate it!

 

This subject has been commented on, or debated endlessly. Both cars are a blast to drive. You are correct that the "S" has been more problematic than the Justa, but IMHO either are great cars and your decision should be based on what you want out of it.

Drive the Justa first. Take a good LONG test drive with corners, curves, freeway ramps and passing. If you can find one, test drive one with an upgraded suspension. If you like it, then it could be the MINI for you.

If you want the power..... try the S. You will fall in love with it.

If you are ordering new: get it exactly the way you want it. Upgrading later costs lots more. Don't get fancy OEM wheels, get lighter aftermarket ones. If you want stripes and are going to put on a clear bra, put the bra on BEFORE the stripes.

Only my opinions. There are alot more out there. Good luck and enjoy it when you get it.

 

Good advice!

Personally I like my Justa. I have put some money into modifying it and I find it more fun than a stock S, although it will never be as fast in the straights. I agree, go and test drive thoroughly. Try the base model first and really put it through it's paces. If you need a little more pull, and can afford new, getting a new S will give you the peace of mind of a warranty.

Whatever you get, you will have a blast! Just be careful, if you start modding, it is a vortex!

 

BigDave,
Just got my Mini in August. No "S". I love it. I test drove both and the "S" is quite a bit spunkier. I am one that tends to keep cars for a long time and my salesman steered me away from the "S" for that reason. I am plenty happy with the power that I have with mine and saved a considerable amount of $. Just one point of view to think about. I am still just a newbie but I promise whatever you get, you will love it.

 

It is good to hear all the views... so I guess I need to go for a couple of long test drives and do some flogging!

Mini2na... interesting about the sales guys opinion there because I am def a guy that keeps his cars till the wheels fall off.

And if I don't get the s version i can always do some mods when the warranty is done... cold air and headers might give me a hp boost.

Now the hard part checkerboards or union jacks!

 

I drove the hell out of a few... and placed my order. I can't wait!

 

Congrats! Any details, or are we waiting on surprise pictures at delivery?

 

Sports Pack (black spoke and bonnett stripes), Cold Weather, HK sound, sunroof... and on and on.

Decided against the S... plenty of pep as it is and I am getting the automatic just because I have shifted my entire life and if I have to change another clutch I will scream.

Looks like mid to late October delivery. Needless to say... I CAN'T WAIT!

 

Everyone... meet Stella!

 

Let me try this one more time... Everyone... meet Stella.

 

Stella is a beauty

 

Welcome

 

Congratulations! That is one nice looking MINI.
Motor On.