I just ordered a new Sport Version of the Clubman - my only hesitation is not looking into the John Cooper Works version - time was ticking and I had to book the production of the car before the end of June to have it built in July as the plant shuts down in August. Has anyone felt the same remorse?

 

it's no big deal, just throw on the basic bolt on accessories and you have the same, if not more power at a cheaper price.

 

Are JCW parts going to be offered at the dealer again?

 

From what I've heard, yes. There will be a R55-specific JCW tuning kit available in Q4 of 2008. There should also be a R55-specific JCW aero kit available in Q2 of 2009.

 

Yeah, JCW can be gotten at the stealership...they'll do everything plus install...figure you're going to pay extra after the fact....might be easier to go aftermarket, unless warranty is an issue for you.

 

can you put the dealer installed upgrades on an auto trans car?

 

The tuning involved is with the car computer changes, the auto is also computer controlled, I don't see why it can't be done, the PSI might not go as high, but I'm sure you could certainly ask your MA about it. Everything else as far as brakes, bars, stuff other than engine can work on the ATX. Intake and exhaust will give you a bit power too, can be done on the auto.

 

There are some major differences between the factory JCW (Stage II) and the dealer installed JCW kit (Stage I). The factory JCW has a heavier-duty transmission, clutch, and new pistons that are more suited to higher boost rates. The Stage I kit produces less power because MINI/BMW didn't think the stock trans & clutch could handle more. They also limit boost because of the stock pistons.

If you have remorse, and don't mind waiting longer, you don't have accept delivery of the MCS Clubman you ordered. If you want to order a JCW, the dealer will understand.

 

+1

Getting what you want without remorse is worth the wait... bigtime. Cooper S and JCW are 2 different cars, some people want one or the other. Get the one you want.

 

+2
Test drive both if you can and go for which ever one gets your spirits up! The best part of being a MINI owner is the great ability to customize everything to your own ever so specific needs!

 

KWA, you may not worry about some of the JCW items after you drive your Clubman S. It hauls ****, as is.
Get it, drive it, love it, then decide if you need upgrades.

 

Just keep in mind that the JCW from the factory is NOT available with an auto transmission because of the incresed power and torque.

If you HAVE to have an auto, then the factory JCW version is not an option at this time.