I am have a dilemma on my hands. I am currently in the process of selling my car so that I can buy myself a MCS.

I want a newer one either a 2006 or 2007. Do I want to get a 2006, the old body style, the last year of the SC. OR Do I want to get a 2007 first year of the turbo? I really dont want to spend a whole lot, but if its perfect i'd make the stretch.

Ive been researching for awhile and i really want a dark silver/black M6
with premium and sport package, LSD, Xenon lamps, center arm rest, piano black interior pieces, driving lamps and roof spoiler. Its extremely hard to find my exact match, but i don't want to buy a brand new one.


It's real hard to find what i want in a USED 07. I prefer the 07 because i'd like to have an extra year of warranty unlike the 06. Whatever one I get has to be low miles. I just need some mini owners input on what you guys think i should do.

Hopefully this makes a little sense, sorry if it doesnt!!

 

This has been a topic to fan flames between the SC and Turbo crowd.

Drive both, and see which one you like better. It's a lot more difference than just the forced induction. Different engines, suspension, wheel base, etc.

As you can see from my sig, what my choice was. I like the SC, and the previous look.

 

With all the things you want on you MCS I think you have to take the one that come available first. Then buy it.

 

I drove an 06 and loved it. I'll have to find an 07 to drive. Unfortunately there aren't many MINI owners around my area, or mini's i can test drive. I had to drive to Orlando to drive the one i did!

I didnt know they were completely different motors? arent they both 1.6? is the compression different ?

 

I was looking at the turbo version until I decided on the SC instead. I feel much more comfortable driving the last version of a model where bugs are worked out then the first where potentially there could be problems. I think you are looking for options so specific that its going to be really had to find. I think if you make some compromises you will have a much easier time finding one thats right for you at a good price.

 

02-04 is the car the Mini designers wanted
03-06 is the car that the Mini bean counters wanted
07-08 is that car that EuroNcap wanted

 

chpsk8 , could you explain that further? haha im new to all this mini stuff

 

As others have said drive each to see which you like better.
A couple of things to consider:
If you like the 06, you have more power mod options right now. The R53s have been around enough to have lots of options on mods.
If you like the 07, think about buying new. You may find the money for new vs. used is not that much different. MINIs hold their value well so if you are going to keep the car a long time new may be a better deal.

But first drive both a R53 (06) and R56 (07) then start looking for the exact car to buy.
Good luck and have fun.