Hi, I'm new to this board.

Does anyone have info or can you direct me to a source of info re. the difference in maintenance costs and reliability of a JCW vs standard S? I'm looking in the 2006 - 2008 range w/ low mileage.

Thanks,

Hal

 

Not sure of a source that will give you that information. There has been lots of talk here on NAM regarding the merits and perils of each model.

One thing I can say is that there is a big difference between the '06 (Gen 1) and the '07+ (Gen 2). Also, I think in the '07's the JCW stuff was dealer installed, but someone with more knowledge will need to verify or correct this.

Good luck. I suggest you drive the Gen1 and the Gen2 cars. That will be the first big decision you will need to make.

 

2006 was the last year of the first gen R53 models and 2007+ are the R56 second gen models.

No difference in reliability between JCW and S.

 

Thanks. Do the differences between Gen 1 & Gen 2 generally favor one or the other in terms of cost/reliability?

 

Depending on mileage, I would say they favor the Gen 1 cars.

 

i think the general consensus is that the Gen I cars are more reliable. both have their issues though.

this is not the question you asked, but i am not sure i'd make the decision on reliability alone. both of these cars are going to have a few issues and you may or may not be unlucky and have a major issue, but they are both fun!

i'd drive the cars and see what you like best- which experience you like the best. since you'll hear the reliability argument favor one or the other depending on who you ask, i'd go for which car you like more and don't look back.

you are going to have a blast whatever you decide on!

 

Thanks to everyone for the thoughtful responses, this is a great forum.