My name is Wolfi and I am about to purchase a 2003 Mini S and just had a few questions.
I just came from a 05 GTO with 430 whp, and I am in need of something lighter and more nimble.

The Mini I am looking at is 03 supercharged, 6 speed, nav, and 17's. I love the way these cars drive and am looking for advice.
I have come up with a list of things I want to put on this car, let me know if it looks okay.

-Alta V2 CAI
-Alta V2 15% SC UDP (with matching belt)
-Alta Intercooler Couplers
-Have NO idea what tune (who to use or what chip to get)
-Short Shifter (don't know what brand)
-Akebono Brake Pads (again, not sure if they are good)
-Good suspension mods to give me some better handling (?? brand ??)

Thanks
Wolfi

 

Welcome and Congrats

Looks like you are trying to put together a plan. Feel free to give us a call with the goals you have and we'll put together an affordable plan for you.

WAY
317.201.8670

 

I was just checking out your website, might have to throw in some WMW products. Like i said, i dont know what is out there yet. I will send a call your WAY soon.

thanks
Wolfi

 

I have the Alta 15% pulley. If I had it to do over again, which I probably will eventually, I would go with a 17% pulley. I also have the WMW tune, not custom dyno tune, but the tune that Way wrote. The car felt "right" after I got the tune. I would suggest it to anyone. Good luck!

 

as far as im concerned, start with a CAI, supercharger pulley, and either a 19mm or 22mm rear sway bar. I only have a CAI, but i hear great things about the other two mods (they're next on my list). Also, don't get the intercooler couplers unless the stock ones are cracked like mine were. theyre a pain to install, and wont do anything performance wise.

When it comes time for a tune, your two real choices are WMW (way motor works, as posted above) or RMW (revolution mini works). Personally, i will use way when it comes time. If you don't live near the shop, the remote tune is supposed to be good (i'll be doing this).

Other suspension mods you might consider. I'm not sure how much of a budget you have, but you might do coilovers. Camber plates in the front as well as camber links in the rear (if you're lowering). Honestly, the best thing you can get is a nice set of non-runflat tires. I run the yoko s.drives, and i love them!

Anyways, welcome to the club, you'll love the car. I sure love mine!

 

^ Im not really into going too low, i would like to sort of keep the general height, but make it stiffer. my GTO was lowered (too much) and i ripped off the bumper on multiple driveways and speed bumps. I know for sure the rear 22mm sway bar now. As far as tires, I HATE run flats. I am looking at the Hankook EVO V12, my brother runs them on his VW R32, and my other buddy on his EVO, so far they both enjoy the tire at the local road course and autocross. Thanks for the help and i cant wait to start the mods.

 

Your right with a 22mm rear sway bar. The Hsport Comp rear sway bar is the best. It is the lightest and has the best bushings to keep it from squeaking.

 

Your list looks good. I'd say instead of going to the 17% pulley to go with a 2% lightweight crank pulley. This will effectively make a 15% pulley a 17%. It will also help in accelleration and throttle response. Chances are the original crank pulley is beginning to crack and will have to be replaced anyways...

 

Good luck with your mods!

 

getting closer to picking up a R53!! Exciting

 

I would suggest a Unichip ECU.
Really made a difference on my car.

 

^You must be new because Unichip is useless