Could you guys tell me if there is a real noticable difference in normal driving between normal suspension and the optional sport suspension?

 

My Mini has the sport suspension. I haven't driven a Mini without it, but mine is fairly stiff on "highway" bumps. It's great in the twisties and I don't mind the stiffer highway ride. I would check with your dealer and see if you can test drive one with and without the option.

 

Ok. For the record my Mini would mainly be for hwy driving and normal around town driving. I'm shuffling options around and if I can shave some places I can add others.

 

I have both, my wife's is normal and mine has the sport suspension. My ride is definitely stiffer, but some of that has to be attributed my 17" rims and runflats versus her 16" standard tires. The stiffer ride and feel for the road is what I bought it for. I have no problem with it, and it is not "bone jarring" at all. I love it!

Hope this helps...

 

I assume you're asking about the newer MINIs, right? (i.e. not the first generation MINIs)
and are you thinking of getting the MC or the turbo MCS?


msduncan!!! This is a family-friendly website -- let's not discuss the places you will shave.

 

LOL! Yes I'm talking about the current new model.

 

My 08 MCS has the sport suspension and I find it unacceptably harsh. My last two cars were 911 Porsches, so I'm accustomed to firm suspension. There's no problem on "smooth" surfaces, but any road with tar strips or similar is HARSH. But then I have 17" runflats, so maybe that contributes to the rough ride. At this point though, I wish I had ordered the standard suspension -- and I'll definitely not replace with runflats when the time comes.

 

msduncan,my recommendation based on your description of your intended driving would be to forget about the SS.I will say, i drive a 05 with stock suspension,and use a 07 with the JCW suspension,17 inch rims on the 05,16 inch on the 07,smoothest ride is in the 07.Q

 

Ok thanks guys. I'm opting for regular suspension.