Hello new friends,

I'm in the market for my first mini (and first car as it turns out) and I'd like to get your opinions on the differences between the '06 and '07 years.

My research tells me that up until 2006, minis had SOHC and the S versions had superchargers. In 2007, mini switched to DOHC and turbos in the S version.

2007 and later minis are about $1-2K more than their older siblings so is that extra cam worth it? How about that turbo? noticeable difference in low RPMs? high RPMs?

Thanks! you guys are the best.

 

Check this out. http://www.motoringfile.com/2007/11/...-s-r53-vs-r56/

Having an extra set a camshaft have nothing to do with it being more expensive.

 

I'd go with the 06' as long as it's a manual and decent miles on it. If it's an 07' I'd go with that if it was an automatic(clutch has issues on the 07+ turbo MINIs). If you want to save gas take the 07' but if you want more fun with modding I'd take the 06' since I can practically make it into a beast. It's a little more difficult to mod the 07' in some cases. Also, depends on the miles of the 07' because of the carbon buildup issues. The N18 engine for the 11+ turbo's have fairly gotten better with the carbon buildup. And also you asked about the turbo, with the stock intake I realized my MINI takes off much faster in lower range. Now if you put a cone filter on, I realized I sacrificed my low end speed for top end speed(which is better when you have a tune).

To be honest, both the 07' and 06' have their best and not so good features somewhere. You'll be fine!


Good luck on your search.