Hey everyone. Been lurking here for a little while and thought Id introduce myself. I picked up a used 09 PW JCW from Motorwerks last weekend. I Love it!

I traded in an 08 350Z and have absolutely no regrets. Its is quite a different animal than the Z but every bit as fun to drive. It is much more economical, should do better in the Winter with FWD, has more room inside, and better amenities. My MINI has the premium pkg, Cold weather pkg, Convenience pkg, HIDs, and fogs front and back.

Id love better quality seats but the "leatherette" will be good with my dog that rides with me occasionally. Id also love an aero kit but those are so darned expensive! Im gonna get stripes custom done by a vinyl shop by my work to cut down on the "cute" factor. Its a DD so I dont think Im gonna do many mods to it at all.

I met the guys at Patrick just this morning. Had a great experience there. I brought it in for its annual (and first) oil change. The car was originally sold there with an in service date of late Aug 08. I came to find out that my rims are aftermarket and the previous owner painted the rear calipers to match the big brakes in front (nice touch). I look forward to learning more here and meeting some other enthusiasts.

Heres the rims I have http://www.tirerack.com/wheels/Wheel...All&sort=Brand

 

Hello and Welcome!!

The Chicago MINI Motoring Club will be doing a drive out to Starved Rock on November 22nd..

Check out the website and come on out if you like.

 

Sounds like you got a really nice car. Hows about some photos? Loved your wheels.

 

welcome..

 

I've been a long time lurker on this site looking around about doing EXACTLY what you just did - only my Z is an '07, that's the only difference. One of the biggest things I liked about the Z is it's ability to get out of more trouble with a tap of the gas instead of slamming the brakes. Do you find this to be a similar asset in the JCW you have now? All the other reasons you listed are mine too. My only downgrades will probably leather to cloth seats, and Bose radio to whatever is offered in the MCS.

 

Thanks for the welcome everyone! I will try to make it out to an event.

Candymaker, It still has the ability to get up n get out of the way of trouble. Also, the big brakes that come on the JCW are even better than the big brakes that were on my gran touring Z, so I can stop pretty darn good. Its also so small you can "bob n weave" through traffic like a welter weight fighter.

I gave up the leather too. I also gave up the nav. My Z had every option. Only problem, and it was a big one, was that it was an AT. They shouldnt be allowed to make that car AT.

So far, besides the way the car drives. I love the rain/speed sensing wipers, and the fact that I never have to take the key out of my pocket. The heated seats, which I had on my last car, are great for a sore/tired back. I never used them like that before but it feels great driving home from work.