I'm a new member that's (near) ready to purchase a 2006 Cooper S. I've decided to keep the options to a minimum; DSC, limited slip and heated seats) We'll probably go with the solid red.
It will be our third vehicle. We have a 2000 Ford Ranger, which is our daily driver and 'hauling junk' truck (we live on 10 acres on a mountain side), and a 1990 V8 powered Mazda Miata (my summer toy).
We really wanted to wait until the fall to purchase a new Mini (when the Miata goes into winter storage), but I've been told that by then we will not be able to order the car the way we want it (and I don't want to be a 'test mule' for the new 2007 car).
I plan to keep the car stock, but I will switch the run flat tires/wheels with aftermarket wheels/tires when the run flats wear out. From what I hear, this shouldn't take too long.
I love the way the Cooper S handles and I'm satisfied with its power output. If I want to go really fast I'll just hop in my V8 Miata.

Any words of wisdom before I put in my order?
Ron
p.s. This will be my second Mini. I had a 1967 Mini 850 back in the early 70s.

 

I too ordered a MCS with limited options. I love the HID headlights. I would prefer them over the DSC.

 

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Yes, a 302 in near stock form (underpulleys, headers and cold air induction). I've already gone through a driveshaft 'U' joint and an RX 7 CV joint. Now I'm running a custom driveshaft and a Ford 7.5 rear end.