I first joined this forum back in September 2007 when I build my first Mini and followed her to the US.. Back then this seemed to be a much bigger deal than today - Still a few people do speciial order and follow. For those that are doing this or thinking about it.. Your dealer can give you most all the needed info, some memebers here can also help
here is my 'Time line'
Called two dealers, ended up dealing With East Bay Mini in Pleasanton Calif - Very good people - actually delt with them back in 07.
after getting a deal I was OK with,
September 12, 2108 = $1,000 deposit to get the order placed
September 28 = started being built
October 5 = Build completed and on the dock awaiting a ship
October 10 = on the ship headed to Calif.
Like I said, back in 2007 - this was a much bigger thing here on the forum... Wild, had sub groups for ships - Lots of chatter between people.. Back then The Mini's were so popular, some dealers were selling OVER MSRP - EBM sold right at MSRP - I remember having to beg for floor mats, LOL > for real.

I still have the orig sales paperwork,,, My OTD price was just under 2K Less 11 years ago and this time - My Signature package included several items that were Extra cost back then that I did NOT get.. == example,, Blue Tooth, Auto A/C temp, 16" wheels, White turn signals, Heated seats were Not an option - a few other items.. That IF I had gotten them back in 2007 would make the cars about the same price, Which I found interesting.. Biggest difference,, This time the Dealer was more than happy to deal to get my business. Now to see if the New 3 cyl tubo is as good as the old little basic 4 cyl..

LOL>>>>>> Just learned last night that I am now a Proud Owner of a "JUSTA" had to google that term, LOL