I am a past Mini owner but never did much modding to my 2002. I will be purchasing a 2012 Mini. I have done quite a bit of modding to other vehicles but nothing in the Mini world.
I am wondering where you can get mods done on a Mini if you are not doing the all the modding yourself. I am looking into doing a short shifter, CAI, and rear sway bar with links too start out.

 

I have an '06 R53 with a Dinan intake and a 25mm H-Sport rear sway bar. I did both of them myself in my driveway, not terribly difficult. I haven't taken mine to a speed shop yet, but I've visited these three shops and they seem to be knowledgeable. Interestingly enough, they're all in Buffalo Grove, IL. I've bought wheels, brake pads, rotors, tires, and other accessories from http://wheelsto.com/. They're in Palatine, IL. Great guys!

http://fall-linemotorsports.com/

http://perfectpowerinc.com/facilities.html

http://www.vsmotorsports.com/index.php

Good luck!

-Phil

 

I had an 06 MCS, have an 02 MCS, and work on all cars with the MINI emblem on them...

www.hubbardwoodsmotors.com

Just ask some of the CMMC members about my 06 MCS.... Had it slammed so low, most of the time rail road tracks were ALMOST impossible!!

I've got information where to buy parts, and currently have an '11 MCS in the shop doing several of the same mods your interested in...

 

Thanks for the information! Great help!
I have heard of Hubbard Woods!

 

http://autoxcooper.com/MINI_Cooper_Resources.html#euro

I autocross with Dustin and have sought help from Glenn (shop owner) before. Both are great guys who really know their stuff. They can install anything and everything, and you don't have to buy a specific part from them to get that specific part installed, either. Their labor rates are very reasonable as far as specialty shops go.

They're a bit of a drive for me since they're way north (Lake County), but worth the trip.