This was dated today so maybe it's still news to you people. I found it to be much what I expected from reading threads on the new car here at NAM. Good power, so-so handling, not much exterior looks oomph. It was the Clubman they drove, but it really drives the same as the coupe. IMO they should give us the suspension option factory for about $1500 and be done with it. The upgrade couldn't cost them more than $500 and the labor is the same.
http://www.motoringfile.com/2008/09/...man/#more-7020

 

Not a bad review, they feel MINI/BMW cheaped out on trim, but I find it refreshing.

Only your wallet keeps you from blinging out your JCW.

 

I know that I do not have an objective opinion, because I am buying a JCW HardTop... BUT

Quit complaining! There is about 7 grand difference between a Cooper S and a JCW when they are bone stock.

Let's say you start with a stock Cooper S. You add the challenge wheels (add $3K), you add the JCW Engine Upgrade (add another $2.5k), you add Piano black ($250), you add the haedliner ($250), you add the big brake kit ($1000). I'm not sure if those numbers are 100% dead-on, I didn't look up the exact figures... but by my estimates that's $7000... the entire difference.

You don't get the upgraded engine and transmission internals. And most importantly... you have a modded Cooper S when it's time to resell, and the JCW owner has a non-modded JCW. Who do you think will get more of their money out of it at the other end??

So if you think the JCW is overpriced, and that's the only reason you wouldn't get it... just remember that a Cooper S is similarly over-priced then.

 

I agree with your assessment - then again, I bought a $40K MINI, so I'm a bit biased myself. However, I had 3 previous MCSs (03, 05, & 07), so I'm pretty darn familiar with the cars, and I don't regret my decision one bit.

Is this an expensive MINI? Yes - but, when I did the math, it made sense. Besides, I sold my last two on Ebay for just a little less than I paid for them, so I'm really not worried if I need to unload this one. That's only true for a small minority of cars sold today, and really none in this price point that I can think of other than a hybrid.

 

I thought it was generally said, from many posts of users drives here and 'pro' auto rags, that the Coupe is 'friskier' and due to the length Clubman more 'sedate' in handling?

 

Agreed. To the average Joe looking for a commuter car the two are probably very similar in how they drive. I'm betting if you asked a seasoned coupe auto-crosser if he would want to change for a clubman the answer would be no.

 

I think the point many who feel the car is overpriced are making is that the car should be offered for less than the sum of an S, replacement parts, and especially replacement labor. And keep in mind that your example doesn't include cost offset for sale of the original wheels, brakes, etc.

And there are those that feel the car should be priced significantly less than the entry level BMW; the 128i has similar performance and features for the same money.

Bottom line is that for those that like to mod their cars (and Mini owners seem to more than most), there are better values in the aftermarket...and for those that don't, there are better values with other brands. Throw in great deals in the used car market given this shaky economy, and there are a lot of other options out there for $30-35k.

Personally, I'm still on the fence. IMO, a complete package would have had the Euro-spec Recaros and sport suspension included (others would prefer more visual distinction, but I prefer the stealth look). Then I could easily justify a starting price of $30k.

 

Your points are certainly relevant and I'm sure some feel this way. But let me just make a few statements.

(1) Sure I'm not including an offset for the original wheels and brakes. But I'm also not including a value for upgraded engine internals and transmission pieces. I feel fine calling that one a push.

(2) I think the 128i and the JCW are such different beasts. The JCW is bought by car people who like Minis. The 128i is bought by non-car people who want an entry level BMW. I think it's easy to love and be proud of your JCW, and the 128i is more of a commuter car with a great engine.

(3) If you never plan on selling your Mini then yes modding is a cheaper route. But you give up your warranty, and won't get any of that mod money back at resale. Modded Mini's resell for less than stock Mini's. So with a JCW that is unmodded, you will get a lot of that $7k difference back at resale.

(4) I'm not saying it's for everyone. But when you consider all that you are getting, and the resale factor... I think if you like it, it's a justifiable cost.

Best way to tell if it's priced right... Do they sell the full allotment!! I am willing to bet you that they will