Navigation & Audio MINI factory NAV. or Garmin?

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Jul 13, 2003 | 05:30 PM

Calvin77

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5th Gear

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I'm relatively interested in having a navigation system in my next MCS, but I just can't seem to bring myself to lose the big 'ole center speedo....
So I'm thinking maybe I should leave the MINI the way I like it "design-wise" and just get a portable Garmin Nav system to use when ever I need it and remove it whenever I don't.
Any opinions from people who have had a chance to use/compare both systems?

Jul 13, 2003 | 05:36 PM

antsmini

6th Gear

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From: New York

I have the NAv built in and LOVE IT! Very handy....of course I can also watch movies on it.

Jul 13, 2003 | 06:04 PM

red03miniS

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Joined: Jan 2003

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From: los angeles/san francisco

garmin

because the speedo/tach on the steering column takes away from the original design and looks too much like a wanna be honda with tons of gauges

in my humble american opinion

Jul 13, 2003 | 06:16 PM

Yucca Patrol

Coordinator :: Alabama Motoring Society & South East

Joined: Nov 2002

Posts: 10,170

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From: Burning-Ham Alabama

I really like my Garmin StreetPilot III. Very easy to use and I can transfer between vehicles when I am not driving my MINI.

The Garmin has more options for the nerdy gadget types, but the factory system is a little more user friendly and it is built in.

Anyway, either way, I cannot imagine NOT having some sort of nav system. it makes travelling so much nicer when I am never lost, just off track!

Jul 13, 2003 | 07:33 PM

jerrygee

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I have one of the first DVD-based factory Nav systems and find it to be my favorite toy and a functional tool on my MCS. If you don’t want to give up the center mounted speedo I would go with a portable Garmin or Magellan. I have both a Garmin and Magellan handheld and personally prefer the Magellan; however, they are used for hiking and dual sport motorcycle riding and I have topo maps downloaded, not public streets. From what I have heard, the Garmain StreetPilot Deluxe III GPS is pretty hard to beat for a car based nav system and they can be had for less than $800.00.

Jul 13, 2003 | 08:18 PM

tontobird

5th Gear

Joined: Jun 2003

Posts: 987

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From: Bucks County, PA

I, too, decided against the built in Nav so as not to detract from the original styling of the MINI. I use a Garmin Street Pilot III Deluxe and it is quite satisfactory.

In fact, I have them available, brand new in box, for $700 plus shipping. Legally obtained, with an original sales receipt from an authorized Garmin dealer. :smile: :smile:

PM me if you'd like more details, I've sold quite a few on ebay.

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