We have a 2007 Mini which my husband wants the dealer to install a positive traction front end for handling purposes. Has anyone had it installed by the dearler and if so are they were satisfied with it. I know that the "S" model comes with that option but not the Mini.

 

I dont think anyone makes a limited slip yet for the 07. I also know you cannot retrofit the OEM differential into the car.

 

I don't understand since the dealer said that the cost of having it installed is $1300.

 

I have an LSD on my '07 MCS (manual). It came that way from the factory...

 

quaife makes aftermarkes lsd for r56 manual trans.
but its not limited-slif, it is torque-biasing differential and way better than the factory version. but a little on the expensive side of course

 

Really with the torque on the standard MINI its only going to be a very slight performance advantage. With the low end torque the S puts out I miss it autocrossing in my R56, but it doesn't really slow me down too much for that. Id just stay without the LSD on the mini, there are only a few situations where it would be useful. The traction control should handle the low traction situations, the LSD really becomes useful when you are talking about taking it on the track.

 

Is there an advantage to have the LSD for being in sand or snow????

 

Sure there is somewhat of an advantage im sure. Not totally sure how it works, but the ASC system should apply the brakes to the spinning wheel in combination with reducing the throttle in a low traction situation. This would still mean the car should be able to pull itself out of the sand in the snow similar to how an LSD would help. This isn't ideal for performance, but unless you are planning on rally driving in the snow with the ASC turned off I don't see how the LSD is that necessary. Only time I wish I had it was autoxing, but since I got a slight deal buying one off the lot and didn't want to wait I am without the LSD. Tell your husband to deal with it the cost of adding the LSD after the fact is not worth it. The 500$ factory installed is a great choice for the very performance oriented MINI drivers otherwise the ASC should do the trick for daily driving.

 

I beg to differ. I have just-a-cooper and I find myself wishing for more traction pretty much every time I drive. I want a quaife! Unfortunately, I have the common 2nd gear grinding problem so I also really want my factory warranty. I can't have both... bummer!