Hey guys, wanted to just say hi. I don't actually own a mini but my company just purchased a 07 MCS, Astro Black, Premium Package, Sport Package with Web-Spoke wheels, Sport Suspension, Lounge Redwood Red interior, black piano finish trim.... I've been driving it for two weeks and I REALLY like the car. Combination of Black exterior (not really black though), the red leather interior and web-spoke wheels look so nice. Among a dozen MCS's this one cought my eye as we drove by the dealership.

I really like the new engine and I can't believe the fuel economy and range. I just broke 1,000 miles and may range is already 485 miles...nice. I'm still trying to figure our the sport button, it really changes the engine response, especially from a dead stop, but I can't sense anything else. I may just need to recalibrate my behind.

Ride is solid and handling is good, but could be great without the rock hard run flats. Steering is really nice and direct, although I could do with less off-center sensitivity and torque steer. I take my 5 year old through mild twisties by our house and when the turbo boost comes on we both giggle. Lots of fun! I think I'm creating a monster..

I like the exterior redesign, but does the cowl top and IP height seem higher? I'm suspecting this was to accommodate Euro pedestrian crash requirement. I also like the metal cowl finish on the 1st gen with no seam or plastic trim between windshield base and cowl, this was a classic design element.

Anyhow, I'm planning on maybe buying a used 2002 MCS...I know not the best year but my son was born in 2002, and I'd like for him to have it in 2018 when he is driving age, then again I'm sure a 2002 MCS will be a "Pig" by 2018, as 70's Caprice Classic was to me in the 80's. I'm digressing..... then again I love the turbo, and I could buy a 2007 for my 2nd son born couple of months ago...whats a dad to do

Cheers.

Peter.

 

A few hiccups here and there... but overall, the 2002 is still a MINI We just bought ours 3 weeks ago and LOVE it! Just watch for those power steering pumps

Welcome to NAM!

 

Thanks Methius....I was told to watch out for the gearbox.

 

I'm sure you can leverage this somehow . . .how about putting a 2002 silver dollar in the ashtray (will these still exist?) of a 2015 hydrogen powered Cooper. Maybe a 2002 Man U jersey. I just upgraded my 15 year old's car from an 87 Honda to a 99 Saab due to safety technology upgrades . . . gotta do it for your kid. I couldn't have him out there with his friends, given that their collective judgement is about enough to make a cup of coffee if you are willing to screen the grounds with your teeth, without a little protection. You'll feel the same way and by the time he is driving there will be many many more safety features. Face it, folks will look upon vehicle deaths at the turn of the century the way we look at constuction project deaths during the first part of the 20th century . . . unnecessary and barely civilized. I don't want my kid hanging by a rope in Boulder Canyon jackhammering a hole for dynamite, jamming it in, lighting it, and jerking the rope. Not without an airbag and anti-lock brakes!

 

Welcome to NAM. What a cool company car!! I own a 2002 and haven't had any trouble with it. A fun and cute car to drive. My 16 month old grandson loves to look out the sunroof from his carseat in the back. It's nice to hear of someone who likes to drive and smile with his son!!