Hi all,

Been reading for a few weeks now. Great community with great people! Thanks .

I'm getting ready to order and have a few questions for the board. I've researched most posts here and on mini2 but would like some specific feedback:

1. I'm really torn over the sport suspension. Based on posts here and reading between the lines at Miniusa, it seems the sport suspension only adds thicker sway bars. However, MA indicates stiffer springs are part of the package as well. Anyone know the answer here?
2. Regardless of answer to #1 above, I'm planning on getting the 16' bright-spokes and investing in aftermarket wheels and non-RF tires. I'll browse the Tire-wheel forum while I'm waiting once I've placed my order.
3. Comfort Bluetooth package--After test driving both with and without armrest, I'm inclined to skip the armrest, but an still interested in the Comfort Bluetooth package. Will I still get the benefits if I pull the armrest out?

Here's my planned spec, comments welcome!

Laser Blue/White
Conv package (pending decision on #3 above)
16' Bridgespoke wheels
LSD
DSC
Rear Fogs
White tails
Checkered Carbon Cloth seats
Fluid surface

Thanks!

Tex

 

I removed the armrest in my 2007 MCS (with Bluetooth as part of package). I was careful to remove the electronics and leave them connected to the car (tucked into the console). Not sure whether the OBC looks at them, but didn't want to risk an error alert. What I gave up was being able to plug a phone in and have it charge and connect to an antenna. My phone isn't compatible (most aren't) so it wasn't a big deal. If you have an iPhone you might want to plug it in, but even when I get one, I'd rather keep it in my pocket. Less hassle that way.

The Bluetooth still works with the phone without the armrest. Comfort Access is unaffected.

I have the stock suspension and just added an H-Sport 19mm rear sway bar. It is currently set on the middle setting. On rough pavement it can be fairly harsh. I'll problem move it down to the minimal setting for street and up to max for AutoX. The nice thing about the H-Sport, vs. the MINI sway bars is that you can change the setting. I change wheels for AutoX, so easy to get at the two bolts at that time.

If you get the standard suspension you can later upgrade to stiffer springs if you want to. Or, go whole hog and get coilovers.

 

Sport suspension includes new struts and thicker sway bars. If you aren't going to upgrade the suspension in the near future it's a great option.

http://www.realoem.com/bmw/showparts...76&hg=31&fg=10

 

I drove an MC without sport suspension, and then an MCS WITH it, and bought the MC without. I don't ever plan on racing/autocrossing, and the MC without still felt like my old Miata. Certainly as much fun as I care to handle!

 

who posted. I'll drive both again and make a decision. I don't plan on going for coilovers, and with stiffer struts, SS looks more attractive. I've arranged for an "extended test drive" with my MA for this week, with plans to order next weekend!! I'll post my ordered spec once its in.

Robin, thanks for info on bluetooth. A mod I'll most likely attempt.

Tex