Hey guys! (and dolls)

I'm new here, let the n00b jokes commence. Anyway, I currently drive a Toyota Tercel, thus I am intimately familiar with small cars. She's modded to a decent extent, but she's just not fast enough, and though she's got Toyota reliability, I just don't see her as being worth the effort to do a swap, plus try to keep a 14 yr old car running.

Anyway, I saw the Mini display at the NY Auto Show, spoke to a salesman from Fairfield, CT, and have decided to buy one. Well, if I can afford it. I've spoken to Geico, they only want 1100 for six months to insure it (I'm 23), which is great from what I can see, plus I've managed to guestimate my payments to $445 or so per month, configured the way I want it.

Mind you, much will come afterwards, probably including a big brake kit, a nice stiff suspension (as if it isn't already!), and I'm thinking about upgrading the S/C on 'er as well. Mind you, much of that will probably come down the road when I get a bit more money in the bank and can afford it. But that said, it's in the works already. I love the Mini aftermarket support.

So, in your esteemed opinions, are there any packages I MUST have, or aftermarket musts? Opinions on the cars? Any general advice, too.

 

An S is the only big jump. All the other options are take it or leave it. The wife's MINI has about every option, my S has none. I enjoy mine as much as she enjoys hers.

This is the place for questions about modifications.

 

I decided to add the JCW brakes when I ordered our MCSa and they are wonderful. It'll stop on a dime and give you back change. I've been debating the pulley swap as so many have done, but my dealer cautioned against it reminding me of the water pump on the other side that could be damaged. I'd be interested to hear from others about his comment.

 

Do a search on this... there is MUCH information to be read...

 

Thanks guys. What options are there for brake upgrades? I've seen a lot of big brake kits online, and with the 17" alloys, maybe even the 16 stockers (for winter), I can see them fitting fine. How big are the JCW brakes, and what kind of power do they have as opposed to the BB kits online? Any brands better than others? I know to stay away from most drilled kits for fear of cracking issues, and I won't be heating them up much, certainly not enough to worry about heat dissipation or gas buildup. So input on that?

Also, I plan to get the LSD. Will this cause issues (tranny related) on sticky tracks if I take it out for a day at the races?

 

Just an FYI:

Mini = old Mini
MINI = new MINI

-Cody (Happy motoring and welcome!)

 

Good lord, $1100 for six months of insurance??? The pleasures of living in NYC.

 

You've earned a 'QFT'!!!

Thanks polizei, I was wondering how you differentiated...

That said, yes, MINI S, in that case.