I drove an R56 S for the first time this weekend. The car I drove did not have sports suspension, and while the steering was accurate and extremely sharp, it wasn't as feelsome as the steering I had expeinced in an R53 S, which of course had sports suspension as standard. Perhaps I'm comparing apples to oranges, I don't know? If someone could shed some light from experience, please do chime in. Thanks guys.

 

did you press the sport button?

 

I did.

 

Most reviewers have pointed out that the R56 steering feel falls short of the R53, even in Sport mode. But the R53 set a very high bar.

 

Sports suspension will add a larger sway bar and dampers wich will automaticaly imporve the steering response. The stiff springs and sway bars will help reduce the body roll.

 

Deutsch - otherwise did you find the R56 experience favorable vs. the R53?

 

The R53 had much better steering, IMO. Then again, I have yet to drive an R56 with SS, so that's not a fair comparo. On the flip-side the new engine is tons torquier and smoother, even under full load. Overall a more refined car than the R53. I liked it. Too bad I can't find a SoCal dealer w/ an R56 S auto with SS to take for a drive. I refuse to buy something I've never driven, seems like some dealers think that's the way to go. Sure, if it's not your money.

 

i am sure you can find a R56 SS manual.

 

My brother has an 06' MCS, and I have to say I don't like driving it that much. I am not used to it, but because of the sport suspension, the steering is sooo sensitive that one little touch and you are changing lanes. The R56 gives you the sport button, which will give you that precision, with it off it is more relaxed and easier to drive day to day.

Then again, my bro has gotten used to the nature of the beast and hardly notices it anymore haha.

 

Additional, I am going to go to MINI after class and see if I can test drive two MINI's. One with the sport suspension, one without.

 

Yeh I'm sure I can too. Wish I actually wanted a 6 spd.

 

Oh yeah, baby. The ratio on the R53 steering is up there with some pretty serious cars. Check out the numbers sometime.

 

What, you couldn't just post the ratios? Do you even KNOW the ratio for an R53?
My 62 Mini Cooper was approximately 2 1/3 turns, or maybe it was 2.2...it was plenty quick... lock to lock. My Grinnall Scorpion is 2 1/2 turns lock to lock, and I could easily order up a quicker turning box if I wanted one. I have no idea what my R56 MCS is, but it's plenty good enough. The normal steering/throttle is fine for NORMAL driving, and the SPORT BUTTON tightens up the steering feel. But the ratio remains the same, of course...whatever that secret R56 ratio is.

 

R56 is 2.5 turns lock to lock with a 14.1 ratio.

 

any luck? my dealership only had an auto without SS available for test drives... i ended up not getting the SS but there wasnt anything that was going to make me get an auto.