I have two MINIs that I am currently interested in purchaing, one is a 04 mcs with about 130k miles and a 04 base (unknown amount of miles) with some modding done to it (both man. trans). So heres the question, Should I buy the mcs, and worry that the supercharger may need rebuilt in the very near future or should I just go with the base model?
Also with the mods done to the base model can anyone tell me what the JCW package includes? I have reason to believe this one may be a base model with the JCW package.

 

I've owned an R50(base) and currently 2 R53's(MCS) and my opinion is to go with an R53. Obviously, a good maintenance history should be a factor and I'm convinced that the supercharger can go longer than most people let on.

 

There were two JCW Kits made for the R50 ... a Tuning Kit and a Sound Kit:

1st Gen MINI Cooper JCW Kits - The MINI Wiki

A R50 with a JCW Tuning Kit would be quite rare.

 

Allegedly, the base model (MT) will last forever. The R53 (MT) is much more fun - and if taken care of, will last forever too.

 

I will have to see the R50 again to check for the badges

 

Just checking in for an update.

 

You can't go by badges. Each JCW Tuning Kit was numbered and came with a certificate of authenticity. Not sure if the Sound Kits were numbered.