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Well, another satisfied customer !!! Just purchased my 2013 GP2 #180 US, about 3 weeks ago. Came from a long line of BMW's and Porsche 911's to end up with none of those and two Mini's ! I love the power, handling and not seeing another one on the road. As with the other cars Ive had, when I got my GP2, I started looking for GP2 forums, and found this one. I registered and started looking for threads that focused on making my Mini faster and more fun to drive. In doing so, the name that kept popping up was Mario's. I fell in love with the way he transformed his GP2 and couldn't find another one quite like it, so I decided to get in contact with him and see what his thoughts were, to make mine more fun and fast. We both live in the So Cal area so after we talked, I decided to pull the trigger on the Manic stage 2 tune. I decided to get the stage 2 tune, plugs, Mario's ceramic down pipe and the NM cold air intake. I didnt have to order and wait on anything, as Mario had everything I needed for my transformation ! Believe it or not, He picked my car up from work and left his car at my job , did all the install, and had my new car back to me when I got off that evening !!!!!! WOW, try to beat that !!!! He also has many forms of payment so paying for the work was convenient and no problem. His prices are beyond fair, and my car is a Lil monster ! Mario is very knowledgeable and genuine, and never ever leaves you hanging ! Im very very happy with my fire breathing dragon and the flawless experience I had with him ! Thanks Mario, see you soon !
Great meeting and talking to you yesterday. The sound of your GP even made the Ferrari and Lambos owner break their necks. Let's talk about wheels, tires and intercooler for next week install. Thank you Mario mQubed Motorsport, Manic Tuning Dealer
__________________ 2013 GP2 #295, 270whp/310wtq, KO4 47mm Turbo, 18" NM Wheels, Alta intake, Manic Stage III+, HFS-3 Meth, 30% E85 Blend, Forged IC, Alta Hot Pipe, P&P/Ceramic Exhaust Manifold, m3 Extreme Ceramic DP, Vibrant mid res, 4" Double walled Tips, WMW/KW V3 CO, Alta Rear CA, CREE Fogs, Black out F/R Rings and Gas Cap, M7 CF Front Splitter, and No Stickers. MORE TO COME!! Previous 04Triple Black 17% Alta, MM Air/H2O, CAI, OBX Header, FBT Head, Shrick Cam, 234whp
Last edited by MarioKart; Feb 26, 2017 at 03:56 PM.
Been meaning to write this for the last month but my GP2's too much fun to drive. Major props to Mario for the work he did. I paid a little extra to have him drive to me because his other clients bailed on the day but worth every penny. Like most guys I checked out his threads, watched what others were saying about him, corresponded (he was great answering my total noob questions) with him. At no point did I feel like I was intruding. Always super-responsive and helpful.
This guy's a pro, is clean (major for me because he was in my office doing tune/computer work and of course all the ladies walked by- he's a good looking chap), brought his own tools and definitely knows his way around a car. Prior to his installation I had a completely stock engine except for a larger Forge IC and firmer lower engine mounts plus WMW "noise maker delete" tube. Tires were about to be replaced as well as an alignment & full lowering on the stock Bilstiens. My car's a DD and no plans to AX or track it so I wanted something that was livable but way more sporty than what came from the factory. ***** of Thunder! This is it!
Mario did an ECU tune, SPS switch, colder plugs and one of his DPs but of course he showed me an intake (damn car ****!) and of course that got added too. Workmanship was 10/10 all around and the tune is out of this world. I love the fact that it's easily switchable from Stock to Stages 1-3. I've only run Stock, Stages 1 & 2 using 101 octane Sunoco race gas, and it's running 5-10 degrees cooler from my prior set up with the larger IC. Stage 3 involves meth and I'm not that crazy.
The beauty of the SPS switch, along with his tune, is that everything is hidden from the dealer when you bring it in (but you have to remember to switch it) for service. It literally takes seconds.
With his larger DP there's definitely more exhaust note, it's a deeper sound but not unbearable or droning. I use the GP Mode daily but the Sport Mode produces too much pop & burble for me so I never use it anymore. I have run it with the GP Mode all the way off by holding the button down for 7-10 secs, you'll see an indicator on the dash that most of the nanny stuff is off, but it handles real "loose".
I will say that overall, before I had new tires, dropped suspension & alignment, that the car felt lighter- noticeably so. No other way to describe it other than it feels like it lost 200-300 lbs. With the tires and such it's absolutely magnificent.
Mario's a stand up guy, really knows his Mini tune, especially the GP2 which due to their lower production numbers not a lot of guys have experience with- he owned one! I wouldn't hesitate to recommend him to anyone, anytime, anywhere. His prices were very fair, knowledge was superb, workmanship excellent.
If you have a Mini, no matter the type, and want a little extra "umph" then Mario's your guy!
I have been out of the Mini seen for quite a few years, but my wife has always wanted a Countryman. A few months ago we purchased a really clean JCW in our town. She loves how it drives, but I found it kind of slow and boring. I immediately contacted Mario for a stage 3 tune, including his downpipe and larger turbo. These three modifications dramatically changed our Countryman, even my wife enjoys the new power.
Next I will be contacting Mario for wheels and suspension.
It's good to be back with Mini.
Mike
I am just kinda starting to think about manic tune,going f
or stage 1 first until later I get some other stuff ready for 2. What should I expect from stage 1?
Thx
Ben
I am just kinda starting to think about manic tune,going f or stage 1 first until later I get some other stuff ready for 2. What should I expect from stage 1? Thx Ben
I sent you a PM
mQubed Motorsport, Manic Tuning Dealer
__________________ 2013 GP2 #295, 270whp/310wtq, KO4 47mm Turbo, 18" NM Wheels, Alta intake, Manic Stage III+, HFS-3 Meth, 30% E85 Blend, Forged IC, Alta Hot Pipe, P&P/Ceramic Exhaust Manifold, m3 Extreme Ceramic DP, Vibrant mid res, 4" Double walled Tips, WMW/KW V3 CO, Alta Rear CA, CREE Fogs, Black out F/R Rings and Gas Cap, M7 CF Front Splitter, and No Stickers. MORE TO COME!! Previous 04Triple Black 17% Alta, MM Air/H2O, CAI, OBX Header, FBT Head, Shrick Cam, 234whp
Hey everyone here to just say a few things about my experience with Mario. It was awesome, this guy educated me and opened my eyes to more mini info then anyone else could. After talking on the phone and explaining everything about my car, tune and process I shipped my ecu out to Cali where he turned my car into an animal. He was very understanding with the tune and whenever I wanted to call him asking him questions on the shipping process or how to install spark plugs properly he was there. The day he messaged me was the best day because he made the car perfect. Turned the ecu around in 1 day which just brought my happiness closer and closer. Now the car is in a awesome place with my stage 2 tune and hopefully even more mods will come. Without a doubt recommend this guy and if you want your car to be one of a kind he can make it that way as everyone can tell...... 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Hey everyone here to just say a few things about my experience with Mario. It was awesome, this guy educated me and opened my eyes to more mini info then anyone else could. After talking on the phone and explaining everything about my car, tune and process I shipped my ecu out to Cali where he turned my car into an animal. He was very understanding with the tune and whenever I wanted to call him asking him questions on the shipping process or how to install spark plugs properly he was there. The day he messaged me was the best day because he made the car perfect. Turned the ecu around in 1 day which just brought my happiness closer and closer. Now the car is in a awesome place with my stage 2 tune and hopefully even more mods will come. Without a doubt recommend this guy and if you want your car to be one of a kind he can make it that way as everyone can tell...... 🔥🔥🔥🔥 https://youtu.be/3XMNAsYrh2Q
Nice I want the flames too.
what exhaust are you running?
Ive been wanting to get a tune to replace my tune I got from somewhere else. So long ago I forget who did it. At the same time I want to get a cat less dp from Mario. You guys are making me move my *** to get this done.
Nice I want the flames too.
what exhaust are you running?
Ive been wanting to get a tune to replace my tune I got from somewhere else. So long ago I forget who did it. At the same time I want to get a cat less dp from Mario. You guys are making me move my *** to get this done.
It's awsome. I'm running Alta downpipe back with a millteck downpipe. Wish I knew about marios DP first because I wanted a ceramic coated one and his just looks way better. The tune with this guy is worth it and just prep yourself for gunshots out the back lol
I finally put in the Mario programmed stage 1 and NGK plugs. What a difference! Much better. I was going to do the downpipe, but after looking at the space to work in, and the fact it's just my wife's commuter car, I went stage 1 instead. I put the plus in and it was a 3 cylinder. Ran terrible. I think I had a coil plug not all the way in. I reseated them all and back to normal! Phew!
For the record, the craftsman 5/8" spark plug socket does not fit, however a standard 5/8" deep socket does. I carefully dropped the plugs in place, and then screwed them in carefully with the standard socket. If I ever need to remove them, I'll need a thinner wall socket.
Got my R58 JCW flashed Manic via Mario. Met him out here in Seattle. Dude is a class act and it was an absolute pleasure to have my car upgraded by him. I would not hesitate to do business with him, ever. Upgraded from the AP to Manic and it was well worth it. If you are considering that, DO IT.
Got my R58 JCW flashed Manic via Mario. Met him out here in Seattle. Dude is a class act and it was an absolute pleasure to have my car upgraded by him. I would not hesitate to do business with him, ever. Upgraded from the AP to Manic and it was well worth it. If you are considering that, DO IT.
You live in a great city!! Welcome to the club and glad we were able to meet up in Seattle.
BTW don't forget to change you signature from Access Port to Manic
Mario
mQubed Motorsport, Manic Tuning Dealer
__________________ 2013 GP2 #295, 270whp/310wtq, KO4 47mm Turbo, 18" NM Wheels, Alta intake, Manic Stage III+, HFS-3 Meth, 30% E85 Blend, Forged IC, Alta Hot Pipe, P&P/Ceramic Exhaust Manifold, m3 Extreme Ceramic DP, Vibrant mid res, 4" Double walled Tips, WMW/KW V3 CO, Alta Rear CA, CREE Fogs, Black out F/R Rings and Gas Cap, M7 CF Front Splitter, and No Stickers. MORE TO COME!! Previous 04Triple Black 17% Alta, MM Air/H2O, CAI, OBX Header, FBT Head, Shrick Cam, 234whp
First things first, I want to personally thank Mario for making a special trip to NorCal to take care of a few of us. I spoke with three Manic dealers before I decided to go with Mario. All of them knew their stuff, but Mario stood out and I knew he was the right man for the tune. We spoke on the phone multiple times before he came to San Francisco and through all are conversations he really made me feel comfortable with going Manic. I previously had the Jb+ and was happy with it, but a tune will always be more precise as for the delivery of power and the consistency.
Now lets get to the power difference. The Jb+ was great before I started buying a bunch of bolt-ons. Once the mods were on the JB+ didn't seem to put down the power I was expecting at 60% on the dial. Once I went Manic with Stage 2+ I was speechless! Map A, super powerful! Map B, beast mode! Map C E85 blend, spaceship! I am really impressed with the tune and can't be happier! I love speed as I have a 2014 BMW S1000RR Motorcycle (200hp) and now it's not being ridden much because my Mini is so fun to drive. If any one is on the fence about the Manic Tune give Mario a call you won't regret it!
Car: 2013 Mini JCW Clubman
My Mods: Exterior Mods: Black F56 DRL Retrofit, Black Aero 2 Grille Side Scuttle Set, Black JCW Grille Surround, Red Brake Ducts, Carbon Fiber Antenna Base, A pillar Matte Checkered, Black Led Side Markers, Red Mirrors, Black Headlight Rings, Rear Led Taillights, Black Fuel cap, Black Door Handles, Black Notch Hood Scoop, Grill Craft Upper & Lower Grills, Oz Racing 17 inch Wheels Suspension: Koni FSD Struts, TSW under Chassis Brace, Hotskiss 25.5mm Sway bar, NM Red Strut Bar, Whiteline Front and Rear End links Tuning: Akrapovic Downpipe & Akrapovic Titanium & Carbon Tips, Manic Stage 2+, NM Mount Inserts, Helix Stepped Intercooler, IP Performance Coil, NM Hot Side Boost Tube, WMW Charge Air Pipe Cold Side, Quicksilver Exhaust, NM Air Intake Carbon, Mini Hood Heat Shield, Nm Oil Catch
No, its a Clubman thing. All Clubman tail lights are built that way. Those just happen to be the fancy aftermarket LED version, which exaggerates the difference.
No, its a Clubman thing. All Clubman tail lights are built that way. Those just happen to be the fancy aftermarket LED version, which exaggerates the difference.
Well by now everyone on here has experienced the same level of excellence with Mario and that should speak volumes to anyone reading this thread.
As everyone said, shipping my ECU off to some guy I've never met was against all that I have been taught, but Mario was top shelf at making the process simple and professional. After receiving my ECU back (yep all the way to Alaska). We talked about how I didn't notice much difference with the JB+ and I think Mario was just being humble, but I am shocked at the pull this car has now in map two. Third gear pull from is amazing.. only bad part is torque steer on crappy roads. This is how the GP should have come from the factory.
I've asked him all kinds of stupid questions and he was always professional and answered them all. Can't ask for better customer service.
When you meet the man himself! Thanks Mario for fitting me in your busy schedule. The wife loves the car and how responsive it is. It's also subtle but very noticeable when in regular mode, which is how she does most her driving. I like the sports mode and hearing the DP do it's thing and making it POP!!! I'm glad I was able to convince the wife to get the R56 and upgrade after 6 years (Manic Stage 2, spark plugs, and ceramic DP). The DP on my F55 is amazing! Works well with the Jcw pro exhaust and gives it a nice deep tone. Very happy all around. Thanks again Mario! Let me know when you're in town so I can stop by and say hello.
I posted in the Countryman forums but I also wanted to add my experience here for others.
If you haven't contacted Mario yet, do it now. If you haven't gotten the tune, do it now. The sooner you get the tune, the sooner you will be enjoying all the benefits.
He's the guy to go to. Extremely helpful, and friendly. Willing to go the extra mile to make a customer happy.
The tune is amazing. No drawbacks. I just want to floor it everywhere I go now.
I posted a review of the Manic Stage II tune that Mario did on my Paceman S a few weeks ago, and think I'll add another positive review for Mario.
If you've been contemplating on whether you should get the Manic Stage II tune, contact Mario Palza (MarioKart) straightaway. It was a period of 9 months, me hating the Paceman S for being sluggish and powerless even with the JB+ hooked up. Then, I read about Mario and all the positive reviews he got from the others, and I started saving up for all the pre-requisite mods and got him tune my car to Stage II. One word, awesome. I would never started loving my Paceman if it stayed stock. Loving every single time I drive the car. Put it into Sports mode, it pops and burbles on demand (lol?). As for Mario, he is a very helpful and genuine guy. He is always willing to answer my stupid questions regarding the tunes and any other mods that I'm unsure of, even after he already earned my business.
Bottom line, believe me, you will not regret 2 things: having Mario as your tuner, and having Manic tune hooked up on your Mini.
