I ended up getting the MINI Mania filter 2 yrs ago. It's actually made by J1 in UK which designed the BMW carbon fiber intake for 3 series. Perfect fitment and works great. I have been happy with it all these times.

 

Crud. So If you are ordering from Mini Mania they get their filter from the UK so it takes about 2 weeks for them to get the filter THEN they send it to you... I should have mine around April 13th =[ I want it NOW!!!!

 

So just got my Mini Mania filter installed. I can hear the turbo better, throttle seems little more responsive. The install is quick and easy, I literally did it 15 minutes before my exam this morning. Comes with filter, shiny metal mounting bracket and screws. The mounts are flush with stock mounts and its not going anywhere. Definitely worth the price in my opinion just so you don't have to cut anything or worry about it going anywhere. Overall It seems like a good filter, I haven't gotten to play with it too much yet. Money wise it's a good investment because it's what $50 for that craptastic paper filter every time you need a new one and this one is re-usable so In the long run it's saving me money just as long as I keep it clean. I decided not to take photos of the install because its so simple and quick I think anyone could do it.