So I'm bringing my '06 MCS in for service tomorrow. I'm thinking I might need a rear main seal and a new clutch so maybe 3 days with a rental. My loaner options are a BMW 328 or a justa Cooper. I tried for a Z4 but it was $30 out of pocket a day and that extra $90 could be spent on much better things (ie CAI, uni-ball, a gallon of hydro).

Last time I had a 328 it kinda felt like a big turd (no offense), pretty bad throttle response, and poor mpg (at least how I was driving it).

So what would you vote for?

I was also optioned a Ford Focus, but promptly declined.

 

the justa is actually kind of fun, but youll definately miss the HP. only real difference i felt lol

and that gas gauge wont move

 

Funny you should bring this up. One of the last times Obie was in for service, they were fresh outta MINIs, so they gave me a 328. I prefer a MINI.

 

A while back when my BMW was in for service we were loaned a MC.

The 328 will tear a standard MC up in power, but the MC is much more "Connected" to the road.

My wife loved it so much we just bought a MCS.

 

We actually just bought a 328i Sport Wagon and this week I'm getting my first extended wheel time in it. While my R53 beats it hands down in driver involvement and personality, the E91 is just... smooth I found myself cruising down the autobahn at 120+ mph and it felt SO relaxed. My poor DB doesn't EVER drive that "chill" (Which, of course, is one of the things I love about her ) My barely formed opinion is, the MCS is a great car to drive for fun, but when I need to cruise or drive long distance, I'll be fighting the Frau for the keys to the Wagon

 

I reserved an MC. Unfortunately all the rentals are automatics. I'm sure the 328 would be more fun with a manual. I might change to the 328 if the fix takes more than a few days since I have a few friends coming into town and it might be better to have 4 doors, but then again, I'm in the drivers seat so I'm not too concerned with those in the back seats. I'm such a great friend.

 

I've always liked to try different cars when I get loaners and have a choice. At the MINI dealer, I've had Justa's, S's, 'verts. When I had my M3, the Bimmer dealer gave me 3 series, X3's, and Z4's. When I had my Cayman S, the Porsche dealer gave me a Cayenne S...and a Mazda 3 (WTF!). Viva la difference, especially on someone's else's coin.

 

Well we got a BMW 330i loaner when our Alfa 156 coughed a bit too much (crank shaft broke just shy of Rostock, on our way home)... which was really nice...

but can't say about the loaner we had the couple of times our X3 or 328i coupe have gone in... in matter of fact they all sucked.... a Mazda 3 sedan (boring), Ford Fussion with the big engine (a sofa car really... or a boat) and a 328i sedan which was really really crap... It had the beige plastic interior!!!! so cheap and nasty!

 

I had a 1-Series as a loaner the last time and that was pretty good. Still felt huge compared to the MINI. My dealer is also now a Rolls Royce dealer so next time I'll have to see if I can get Ghost or Phantom as my loaner

 

Not too bad eh? 500 miles on the odometer. The controls are a bit screwy, but I'll cope. Hope to have Maxwell back soon. I wonder if they would notice if I returned it with different rims. Hmmmm?

 

When I drive my wifes 328 it feels big and I have trouble seeing out the rear sides or over my shoulders as compared to the Mini. It does have great power though.
My first loaner was an R56 (when first came out) and that even felt a little odd compared to my R53.
I would prefer to always get a different sportier loaner, just to do some comparisons.

 

I took mine in for service a few years ago and they gave me a 325xi 5 speed (last generation) I loved it. Last time I was given an automatic 328xi. I'd rather have a justacooper.

 

Well the justa has treated me well. Might have it for one more day. Looks like the leak that i thougth was either oil or coolant was in fact both. The crank sensor went bad and managed to mix with coolant from the thermostat housing. Southbay is going ahead and replacing both and installing a new clutch and possibly a flywheel. Definitely glad I have th warranty and definitely glad Brian at Southbay has been so helpful.