My MINI was rearended last Thursday and I am pretty sure its totaled. My question is should I get the new R56 or get another Mini like the one I had? I want to make sure that the R56 will be able to be tuned and modded, however I dont see too many options yet as it is so new. Do you think the new Mini will be as tunable if not more? I would hate to get a new one and regret it.

 

Currently the 53 has more availible, after about 1-3 years the 56 will be far more tunable and likely produce more power.

So I suspect, so if you can handle the stock life for several months until more engine bits are developed you'll be happier in the long run. Of course if you can find a near identical 53 on the lots somewhere that may be the better option.

 

I was hoping that the turbo would leave more possible options. I guess I could live with stock for a little while. At least it will save me some money. I cant buy what is not there to buy

 

I don't think you'll have to wait for too long before the turbo goes beyond the S/C capabilities.

Check here for one example:

http://www.rms-tuning.com/cms/index....id=49&Itemid=1

Crude babelfish translation:

The new turbo Cooper S was hardly delivered, runs with RMS the test stand hot. Rainer Dagn can only confirm the euphoric reports on the newest generation of the Cooper S (now with 175 HP of turbo engine). "the loader harmoniert magnificently with the new engine". A first modified software supplied already 220 HP and 300 Nm starting from 2000 U/min. But that is only the beginning... 300 HP and 350 Nm are the goal In the next weeks engine, drive strand and transmissions are divided and examined for possible weak points and further optimization possibilities. The search and development of the optimal attachments begin. Still is not clear whether the new of BMW and PSA developed drive package higher Leisutngen as problem-free away-put as the compressor beaconed engine of the first new one mini. But, otherwise so the sceptical, Rainer Dagn gives itself confidently that 300 HP and 350 Nm are a first realistic goal. "which must be modified everything around the 300 or stably to lift, will only turn out 350 Nm. We want to sell in no case a time bomb to our customers ", explain Dagn. Yellow danger 2 The ambitious goal the title of the strongest mini again after Tirol to get motivates the whole RMS team. The new mini Cooper S, now in mellow yellow, is to tie strong "yellow danger" to legendary 270 HP. RMS ' first new mini project was taken up euphorically by the press and found numerous content customers in the whole world. Rainer Dagn prognosticates the realistic commencement of production for the Top variant of the new Cooper S with for instance 300PS (or more) for March 2007. Up to then should be carried out also a neutral chassis, the best brakes and harmonious aerodynamics for the newest mini generation. We hold it up to date!

 

I should find out very soon what the outcome of the insurance will be. I hope they total it.

 

Here is a picture I took from my phone soon after. Remember I was hit from the back and the car pushed me into the guy in front of me. :impatient I am still sore!

 

Maybe it's just the pic, but are those slicks on the front?

 

Close. They were shaved Toyo RA-1's. Very fun tire when warmed up.