Hi all

Just traded in my 5-speed MC for an MCSa. Here's da spec:

BRG/W
premium
cold
chrome upper grill, but body colored lower one
two-tone grey leatherette
silver dash
DSC
HK
x-lites
JCW air filter

the JCW intake was wicked expensive, but worth it in my mind - really exhilarating when you hit 4500 RPM and get that sudden intake sound! also looks great in an OEM sort of way. HK a big improvement over the standard system!

I think the grill was a mistake on the dealer's part - but I did notice in the options catalog that it is techniquely 2 different parts. I've decided I like it though.

the new mini is a lot faster than the old one, but noticably a heavier car - much better build quality though, the first was a rattle monster! (it was a used 2002)

At some point I'm planning to do the exhaust and a 15% pulley (unless the forthcoming JCW kit includes something really special for the auto, like upgraded transmission software). For the exhaust I'd probably be choosing between the milltek or the JCW - might stick with the JCW to go with the filter.

anyway, I love the site, and will try and post some MSCa driving impressions soon!

 

Welcome aboard my friend!!! Glad you finally decided to officially poke your head in here...:smile: Congrats on MINI #2. Stick around - great info. and people around these parts...:smile:

Donna
02' CR/W MCS (gone to MINI heaven - burned up)
05' Cool Blue MCSC "Ariel"
05' HB/W MCS - delivery next week

 

Well Beek, it's about time you showed up! Geez, can we start the party now?!?!?!? Seriously, welcome. People who drove/drive '02s have special privileges around here (...yet to be determined, though ).

 

Yeah, the sunroof resonated violently between 10 and 40 mph, made the MINI sound like a giant bumblebee - the 02s, membership has its privileges!

I do miss it though . . .

 

Question from one who ordered an A: How did you decide on an A instead of a clutch car? And, welcome.

 

I had a really great test drive in an MCSa:

http://www.mini2.com/forum/showthread.php?t=83540

I wasn't expecting to like it so much - normally I would automatically get a manual, but being able to shift gear with paddles mounted on the steering wheel really intrigued me. I certainly debated it with myself endlessly, trying to decide which one to get - I was also swayed by the fact I live in a city, etc.

 

Very nice review. I appreciate the detail observations and shall be more aware when I pick up my car (admittedly not having test driven it). Thank you.

 

Congrats! Also have you heard of any mention as to when the JCW kit will be out for the MCSa cars?

 

the kit for the MCSa is supposed to be out later this month, according to JCW. I read somewhere that it is currently undergoing testing by aisin, the company that makes the transmission. the release date has been delayed twice already, but hopefully this time it's for real . . .

 

Hmm..interesting.