Well, the adage that we realize our fears was borne out as my new MINI S Green Park edition arrived yesterday without the bonnet stripes. If it was a paint issue, there is no doubt I would have them redo the order. Bonnet stripes, however, are another matter, since I imagine the decal application should be the same whether applied at the dealership (Princeton MINI) vs the Oxford plant.

Here's the deal (and my question). I sort of like the car as is (surprise!), and wonder if I'd be "junking it up" with the stripes (no offense to those of you who have them already). The dealership verified my original order did include the stripes and apologized, saying they would order and install the exact pin-stripe bordered bonnet stripes that complete the Green Park package. I had no other issues, signed the agreement of sale and now own the car. So I have a choice to keep the car as is or add the stripes...

Does anyone have any thoughts on dealer-installed stripes vs factory, suggestions on stripes vs. naked bonnet, woeful tales of stripes they regret?

 

I think the R56 looks great without stripes, while the R50/53 looks naked without them.

 

I think every MINI looks better and more MINI-ish with stripes. And you will never know the difference between factory-installed and dealer-installed stripes.

 

It is all part of the U-ification that MINI talks bout. If you like it, then that is all that matters.

I personally don't go for the different roof color than body that really defines MINI. So both mine have had same color roofs. Just my thing.

Now, go drive it like you stole it !

 

 

Exactly. When I ordered my CMS, stripes and a blackjack roof graphics were the only exterior bling I selected.

On the other hand, MINI is all about you-ification.

 

Do what you like best. Some of the black ones with a total-dechroming look pretty wicked but other than that I think they look kinda naked w/o. Just my 2 x $0.01 worth.

 

I dont have stripes on my R56, been thinking about it but also kind of really like the clean look w/o them.

 

I'd say have them order and deliver the stripes, then just hang on to them and have them applied later if you want that look.

 

Print out a good sized photo of your car with the stripes. Hang it on your refrigerator for a month and then make up your mind.

 

Correct me if I am wrong but it's my understanding that bonnet stripes are a dealer installed item. I don't believe they put them on at the factory. Or at least they were when I took delivery in 2005.

 

Used to be but I'm pretty sure I remember reading they install at the factory now if you order includes them.

 

Surprising that the mistake is not caught at the Vehicle Dist. Ctr.

There is supposed to be a final inspection and installation of some options. I was told the extra fog lamps are installed at port.

 

I would have them put on. Drive with them for a bit and if you really don't like them, just take them off.

However, if you try reselling the car in the future, the edition stripes may be something a potential buyer may look for. Just like other editions such as the Hampton Edition.

 

That can be done without damage to the paint? It is my understanding that the stripes are glued on.

 

TECHNICALLY they are "glued" on because of the adhesive on the contact side of the vinyl.

However, they are essentially just good quality stickers. They are made of vinyl and can be removed whenever you choose.

 

The stripes look haggard after being out in the sun - NO STRIPES!