R50/53 MCS problems and disappointments
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1st Gear
Joined: Oct 2003
Posts: 25
Likes: 0
From: Australia
Hey everyone,
Before I buy my MCS, I just wanted to hear from everyone onwning a MCS what problems or bad qualities you have experienced with your car.
I am still tossing up whether to get the car.
Before I buy my MCS, I just wanted to hear from everyone onwning a MCS what problems or bad qualities you have experienced with your car.
I am still tossing up whether to get the car.
2nd Gear
Joined: May 2003
Posts: 96
Likes: 0
From: Michigan
Kuneman,
My biggest disapointment with this car is the fact that it clearly highlights how poor the roads are near my house. When I have had it out on properly maintained roads, it has been a joy. It's not the best best tool for stop and go traffic. I dont imagine too many small displacement, forced induction cars are happiest in that duty.
It has a few more squeaks than I would like, but those can all be fixed.
The cruise control seems off as well.
I think someone put it best when they said, "Make sure your dealer is close, and they don't suck !!
I got what I paid for, a fun car. If that's what you want, look no further.
My biggest disapointment with this car is the fact that it clearly highlights how poor the roads are near my house. When I have had it out on properly maintained roads, it has been a joy. It's not the best best tool for stop and go traffic. I dont imagine too many small displacement, forced induction cars are happiest in that duty.
It has a few more squeaks than I would like, but those can all be fixed.
The cruise control seems off as well.
I think someone put it best when they said, "Make sure your dealer is close, and they don't suck !!
I got what I paid for, a fun car. If that's what you want, look no further.
Biggest complaint is that the lights do not turn off when I turn it off and pull out the key. 2nd biggest complaint, people drive to slow. 3rd biggest complaint people ask too many questions about it, so I have resorted to handing out a piece of paper about the cars history that printed up.
It is a blast to drive all the time.
It is a blast to drive all the time.
4th Gear
Joined: Aug 2003
Posts: 477
Likes: 0
From: So Cal
>>I am still tossing up whether to get the car.
Just curious - what other cars are you thinking of getting, or are you considering not getting a car at all?
Some members have managed to rent a MINI for a couple days to help with their decision. That would be my best advice for any car - drive it as much as possible before buying, while reading up on it online.
Just curious - what other cars are you thinking of getting, or are you considering not getting a car at all?
Some members have managed to rent a MINI for a couple days to help with their decision. That would be my best advice for any car - drive it as much as possible before buying, while reading up on it online.
5th Gear
Joined: Jan 2003
Posts: 726
Likes: 0
From: Fleming Island (orange park basically) FL
Oh no, not another one, it's the many threads like this that prompted me to suggest a poll on the main page to Paul over on MINI2 and I might have said something to Mark.
Anyways...
I've had my 04 MCS for 3 weeks now, 2200 miles and it is absolutely perfect.
Anyways...
I've had my 04 MCS for 3 weeks now, 2200 miles and it is absolutely perfect.
3rd Gear
Joined: Oct 2002
Posts: 207
Likes: 0
From: Sequim Washington
drugs are illegal, but this is addiction is a blast. pully really increases the rush. can't think of a more fun car for the money and have to many to mention. if you want to drive for the fun of it this is the car. and you will have a smile on your face everytime you shut off the engine. sometimes you go around the corner one more time just to see that corner one more time. 
brg mcs pulley, checker top, stripes and white wheels.
brg mcs pulley, checker top, stripes and white wheels. Trending Topics
5th Gear
Joined: Sep 2002
Posts: 669
Likes: 7
From: Colorado
where u gonna get a Lotus Elise? they sell them here? when i saw the MINI at the NYC show there wasnt another car on this planet that mattered to me. The next year i didnt even go to the show. I kinda wasnt into it. I never walk into a store after parking without turning around and looking at my car atleast once.
1st Gear
Joined: Jun 2002
Posts: 46
Likes: 0
From: New England
I don't like it when every freak on the street has to come over and give input on the car. It sucks living in the city with a car everyone wants to touch. You leave a washed car parked and you find twenty different nose prints on the glass.
Think of the Cooper S as a modern BMW 2002tii or even 2002turbo. The JCW Cooper S as a BMW 2002 Alpina(very rare and $20,000-$40,000 on the classic car market). One day the Cooper S will become a classic and increase in value well above its current value. You are buying a car that will be desired forever. You can't say the same thing about most cars on American roads. For instance the current BMW 3 series is a GREAT car but in 10-20 years will be so dated and ugly. Kinda like the 3 series of the 1980's. Big crash bumpers and all.
Cheers,
Think of the Cooper S as a modern BMW 2002tii or even 2002turbo. The JCW Cooper S as a BMW 2002 Alpina(very rare and $20,000-$40,000 on the classic car market). One day the Cooper S will become a classic and increase in value well above its current value. You are buying a car that will be desired forever. You can't say the same thing about most cars on American roads. For instance the current BMW 3 series is a GREAT car but in 10-20 years will be so dated and ugly. Kinda like the 3 series of the 1980's. Big crash bumpers and all.
Cheers,
5th Gear
Joined: Mar 2003
Posts: 689
Likes: 0
From: Washington DC
that was a BIG shopping list!! 
MC to H2??
Interesting. get the H2.
I would get the TT only if i have enough money, by myself to have a 2 seater or Dont like many features in the car.
More feathers better. Performance is the big factor too. i would drive "fun car" before i get marry and have kid or get too old!
MC to H2??
Interesting. get the H2.
I would get the TT only if i have enough money, by myself to have a 2 seater or Dont like many features in the car.
More feathers better. Performance is the big factor too. i would drive "fun car" before i get marry and have kid or get too old!
6th Gear
Joined: Aug 2003
Posts: 2,675
Likes: 2
From: South Bend, Indiana
Have had my MCS for more than a year and 31k miles. This car is LOVED by most owners, but is not for everone. For me, it is the perfect car, at the right time. For you... only you know.
God speed.
God speed.
>>I'm Considering these that are within my range-
Hey Slappy, that's a totally wacky list! If I'm not mistaken, you're comparing cars that range from under-$20K small sedans to large - over $60K - trucks, to pushing $100K sports cars. Read a lot of car magazines do you?
6th Gear
Joined: Jun 2002
Posts: 3,359
Likes: 1
From: New Jersey
where u gonna get a Lotus Elise? they sell them here? when i saw the MINI at the NYC show there wasnt another car on this planet that mattered to me. The next year i didnt even go to the show. I kinda wasnt into it. I never walk into a store after parking without turning around and looking at my car atleast once.
6th Gear
Joined: Apr 2003
Posts: 1,706
Likes: 0
From: Tallahassee FL
jsun is right, that is a pretty wacky list. I think you need to narrow it down a bit. Can I help?
First of all, I'll just assume that cost isn't much of a factor for you. Lucky Dog.
Second, you need to ask yourself, "Am I a truck guy or a sports car guy?" The Cooper and the H2 are pretty much the most antithetical vehicles on the road. If you're a truck guy, then your list should get a lot shorter. (And speaking of trucks, no Porsche Cayenne?) If you're a sports car guy, driving the plodding, imprecisesly handling H2 will annoy you after a while. What are you really into? Do you need 4WD? Do you need a backseat? Sedan or two door? Hard top or rag top? What's more important, the vehicle's performance, personality, design, or some other aspect?
Now I'll give you my 2cents on some of your choices:
Lotus Elise - from what I've read, this will probably be the most entertaining pure sports car available. All things being equal, that's what I'd get. But, it costs $39K, and you'll have to get on a long waiting list. It's also rather spartan, so if you're into a lot of amenities, it might not be right for you. It's a real sports car.
EVO or WRX STI - pure rally cars. Lots of power, less personality, and again, not the most luxurious thing you could drive. And 4WD, of course, if you're in a wintry area.
S4 - This is supposed to be a real rocket. Probably a good choice if you want a sports car/luxury sedan hybrid.
TT - In terms of pure design, one of the more interesting cars on the road, but not the sportiest of the bunch.
Z4 - Pure roadster. Are you into top-down motoring?
Boxster S - Very popular choice among the sports car crowd. Power, handling, and real sports car cache.
MCS - Given your other choices, I'll just assume that you'd go for the MCS over the normally aspirated MC. The MCS gets high marks in pure fun factor and design. One of the best handling cars out there, especially in its price range. And the MINI generates more interest and positive reaction than any of the cars on the list. It's got real personality. Of course, it won't keep up with many of the non-trucks you mentioned, but it will be at least as much fun to drive. And more HP is available, either from the Cooper Works kit from the dealer, or via the aftermarket.
Personally, I went for the MCS because cost was a factor, I needed a backseat, and fun and personality were also big factors. You simply can't get a more entertaining car for less than $25K. But "If I were a rich man," I might hold out for the Elise. I'd give up the leather seats, nav system, CD changer, etc. for the pure drivinf fun.
Wow, I can't believe I just wrote all that. It was more like a dime than 2cents!
Good luck with your decision, and if you do get a MINI (which you should, of course :smile: ) one of the bonuses will be getting to know the other enthusiasts on this great site.
And whatever you do, please don't buy a Hummer! :smile:
>>I'm Considering these that are within my range-
>>
>>MC
>>MCS
>>Lotus Elise
>>Audi TT
>>M3
>>S4
>>Z4
>>M Coupe
>>EVO
>>STI
>>Range Rover
>>H2
>>BoxsterS
>>Tourag
>>
>>
>>It's a tough choice. And It's a lot of fun
First of all, I'll just assume that cost isn't much of a factor for you. Lucky Dog.
Second, you need to ask yourself, "Am I a truck guy or a sports car guy?" The Cooper and the H2 are pretty much the most antithetical vehicles on the road. If you're a truck guy, then your list should get a lot shorter. (And speaking of trucks, no Porsche Cayenne?) If you're a sports car guy, driving the plodding, imprecisesly handling H2 will annoy you after a while. What are you really into? Do you need 4WD? Do you need a backseat? Sedan or two door? Hard top or rag top? What's more important, the vehicle's performance, personality, design, or some other aspect?
Now I'll give you my 2cents on some of your choices:
Lotus Elise - from what I've read, this will probably be the most entertaining pure sports car available. All things being equal, that's what I'd get. But, it costs $39K, and you'll have to get on a long waiting list. It's also rather spartan, so if you're into a lot of amenities, it might not be right for you. It's a real sports car.
EVO or WRX STI - pure rally cars. Lots of power, less personality, and again, not the most luxurious thing you could drive. And 4WD, of course, if you're in a wintry area.
S4 - This is supposed to be a real rocket. Probably a good choice if you want a sports car/luxury sedan hybrid.
TT - In terms of pure design, one of the more interesting cars on the road, but not the sportiest of the bunch.
Z4 - Pure roadster. Are you into top-down motoring?
Boxster S - Very popular choice among the sports car crowd. Power, handling, and real sports car cache.
MCS - Given your other choices, I'll just assume that you'd go for the MCS over the normally aspirated MC. The MCS gets high marks in pure fun factor and design. One of the best handling cars out there, especially in its price range. And the MINI generates more interest and positive reaction than any of the cars on the list. It's got real personality. Of course, it won't keep up with many of the non-trucks you mentioned, but it will be at least as much fun to drive. And more HP is available, either from the Cooper Works kit from the dealer, or via the aftermarket.
Personally, I went for the MCS because cost was a factor, I needed a backseat, and fun and personality were also big factors. You simply can't get a more entertaining car for less than $25K. But "If I were a rich man," I might hold out for the Elise. I'd give up the leather seats, nav system, CD changer, etc. for the pure drivinf fun.
Wow, I can't believe I just wrote all that. It was more like a dime than 2cents!
Good luck with your decision, and if you do get a MINI (which you should, of course :smile: ) one of the bonuses will be getting to know the other enthusiasts on this great site.
And whatever you do, please don't buy a Hummer! :smile:
>>I'm Considering these that are within my range-
>>
>>MC
>>MCS
>>Lotus Elise
>>Audi TT
>>M3
>>S4
>>Z4
>>M Coupe
>>EVO
>>STI
>>Range Rover
>>H2
>>BoxsterS
>>Tourag
>>
>>
>>It's a tough choice. And It's a lot of fun
1st Gear
Joined: Jul 2003
Posts: 40
Likes: 0
From: Orlando, FL
That is the craziest list I have ever seen. My suggestion, get your list down to 3 cars and research the hell out of them. There is no way you can learn everything you can learn about every car on that list to make a proper decision. If you enjoy performance and you are thinking about a MINI, take the MC off your list right now.
I have a MCS and there are no complaints so far outside of one mentioned above - people drive WAY too slow. The MINI wants to go all the time. It is almost a symbiotic relationship as the MINI's owner will find him/herself feeling that same impatience and want to drive very very fast. I have never cared much for cars in my life but I am in LOVE with my MINI.
The Lotus Elise has been called the best sports car on the planet. Keep in mind that when this car hits the states there will be very few places to get it. The $40k starting price will be more like $50-60. The negative to the Elise is paying a inflated price for a car that traditionally has poor resale value. If money is no object then, by all means, get this car. If you don't want to pay inflated retail price, outrageous costs for repairs and parts, and lose money when you sell it then forget about that car and get a MCS.
~Steve~
Oh yea - HAPPY HALLOWEEN!
I have a MCS and there are no complaints so far outside of one mentioned above - people drive WAY too slow. The MINI wants to go all the time. It is almost a symbiotic relationship as the MINI's owner will find him/herself feeling that same impatience and want to drive very very fast. I have never cared much for cars in my life but I am in LOVE with my MINI.
The Lotus Elise has been called the best sports car on the planet. Keep in mind that when this car hits the states there will be very few places to get it. The $40k starting price will be more like $50-60. The negative to the Elise is paying a inflated price for a car that traditionally has poor resale value. If money is no object then, by all means, get this car. If you don't want to pay inflated retail price, outrageous costs for repairs and parts, and lose money when you sell it then forget about that car and get a MCS.
~Steve~
Oh yea - HAPPY HALLOWEEN!
Vendor & Moderator :: MINI Camera and Video & c3 club forum
iTrader: (6)
I'm going to risk jumping in here because I opted to get a Cooper instead of an MCS. Since this thread is all about deciding which car to get, I have to disagree with most of you that an S is more FUN than a Cooper.
I drive on the mountain runs with MCS's and have no problem keeping up. We're mostly in 2nd and 3rd gear anyway. I drive in high RPM's and daily blow away from the pack in my daily commuting. I actually prefer the MC in stop and go traffic versus a larger car. I'm able to squeeze into spots and accelerate into them while people are still dialing their cell phones, or drink that cup of coffee. I don't drive recklessly, but the MINI permits me to squeeze and dart into places you couldn't go before.
Case in point, I was merging onto the freeway yesterday. Traffic was controlled by a stop light and there were two lanes. I had a large Ford F150 type truck on my right. After the light, it's a sweeping 180 degree curve leading to the freeway, and becomes a single lane. So it's a race to get in front. He had more HP than me, but I quickly overtook him and with the enormous grip, took that curve and left him in the dust. Perfect example of a MINI being able to overtake larger vehicles. Once on the freeway, I'm cruising in 4th at 5500 RPM and alternating between 3 and 4th gear, and driving is an absolute blast!
An MCS has a top speed 10 mph better than an MC. It's 0 to 60 is like 1 second better. Big hooie! I got a Cooper with about $6,000 worth of options and even with CA Tax stayed around $25K and it's awesome. Another $3K for an MCS would have taken me way over my budget.
Either car is an absolute joy to drive. I might have to push the Cooper harder to keep up, but heck, that's the joy of it. Now I do have one word of advice to you.
Go see a MINI in person. If you fall in love with it on the spot, then buy it!!! If you have any doubts in your mind: that it looks slow, is ugly, or that you would feel annoyed being gawked at or having strangers approaching to discuss your car, or feel like a Civic could outrun the MINI, then please, don't even think about buying a MINI.
When you own a MINI, it's life altering. But its not for everyone. If you're not sure, go find your local Budget Rent a car and see if they have a MINI you can rent for a day or a week. The MINI is a great car, whether it's an MC or MCS! If you don't have a smile by the end of your rental chiseled permanently in your face or if you suffer pains handing over the keys, then you know the answer!
Just my 2cents.
I drive on the mountain runs with MCS's and have no problem keeping up. We're mostly in 2nd and 3rd gear anyway. I drive in high RPM's and daily blow away from the pack in my daily commuting. I actually prefer the MC in stop and go traffic versus a larger car. I'm able to squeeze into spots and accelerate into them while people are still dialing their cell phones, or drink that cup of coffee. I don't drive recklessly, but the MINI permits me to squeeze and dart into places you couldn't go before.
Case in point, I was merging onto the freeway yesterday. Traffic was controlled by a stop light and there were two lanes. I had a large Ford F150 type truck on my right. After the light, it's a sweeping 180 degree curve leading to the freeway, and becomes a single lane. So it's a race to get in front. He had more HP than me, but I quickly overtook him and with the enormous grip, took that curve and left him in the dust. Perfect example of a MINI being able to overtake larger vehicles. Once on the freeway, I'm cruising in 4th at 5500 RPM and alternating between 3 and 4th gear, and driving is an absolute blast!
An MCS has a top speed 10 mph better than an MC. It's 0 to 60 is like 1 second better. Big hooie! I got a Cooper with about $6,000 worth of options and even with CA Tax stayed around $25K and it's awesome. Another $3K for an MCS would have taken me way over my budget.
Either car is an absolute joy to drive. I might have to push the Cooper harder to keep up, but heck, that's the joy of it. Now I do have one word of advice to you.
Go see a MINI in person. If you fall in love with it on the spot, then buy it!!! If you have any doubts in your mind: that it looks slow, is ugly, or that you would feel annoyed being gawked at or having strangers approaching to discuss your car, or feel like a Civic could outrun the MINI, then please, don't even think about buying a MINI.
When you own a MINI, it's life altering. But its not for everyone. If you're not sure, go find your local Budget Rent a car and see if they have a MINI you can rent for a day or a week. The MINI is a great car, whether it's an MC or MCS! If you don't have a smile by the end of your rental chiseled permanently in your face or if you suffer pains handing over the keys, then you know the answer!
Just my 2cents.
2nd Gear
Joined: Oct 2003
Posts: 135
Likes: 0
From: New Hampshire
I think you made some great points OctaneGuy. I'm new to the forums but I have done a lot of research on this amazing little car. I plan on ordering mine next year (which is not that far away! WooHoo!). I haven't yet decided between the MC and the MCS. To be honest, I'm leaning toward the MCS but I think the MC is a great value as you can get one "loaded" for the price of a base MCS. Yes, the MCS has more power which is always fun but the MC still has the "go kart" handling and once you're up to speed the differences are lessened.
You really can't go wrong either way. It's a win-win scenario! :smile:
You really can't go wrong either way. It's a win-win scenario! :smile:
Vendor & Moderator :: MINI Camera and Video & c3 club forum
iTrader: (6)
>>I think you made some great points OctaneGuy. I'm new to the forums but I have done a lot of research on this amazing little car. I plan on ordering mine next year (which is not that far away! WooHoo!). I haven't yet decided between the MC and the MCS. To be honest, I'm leaning toward the MCS but I think the MC is a great value as you can get one "loaded" for the price of a base MCS. Yes, the MCS has more power which is always fun but the MC still has the "go kart" handling and once you're up to speed the differences are lessened.
>>
>>You really can't go wrong either way. It's a win-win scenario! :smile:
Thanks MINI58. Hmm you are planning on ordering next year? Why not order it now? Or are you fortunate enough to be in a state where there is no waiting list? It took me a year before I was "ready" to buy my MC, and then I found I was going to have to wait another 6 to 8 months before being able to get a build number!! If I just ordered it when I was thinking about it, I could have had it by the time I was ready!
They are both fun cars! Oh I forgot to mention if MPG is important to you, the MC is a bit better than the MCS too!
>>
>>You really can't go wrong either way. It's a win-win scenario! :smile:
Thanks MINI58. Hmm you are planning on ordering next year? Why not order it now? Or are you fortunate enough to be in a state where there is no waiting list? It took me a year before I was "ready" to buy my MC, and then I found I was going to have to wait another 6 to 8 months before being able to get a build number!! If I just ordered it when I was thinking about it, I could have had it by the time I was ready!
They are both fun cars! Oh I forgot to mention if MPG is important to you, the MC is a bit better than the MCS too!
2nd Gear
Joined: Nov 2002
Posts: 112
Likes: 0
From: ALBANY, GA.
I now have over 16,000 on my All Chili Red MINI and I simply love my little car. I would buy it all over again, & add the same mods. The only, and I mean only, problem I have experienced is a slight hesitation on starts when the engine is cold.
The solution has been to let the motor idle maybe 20 seconds longer before turning the key on top of the car to wind it up so the wheels will roll. Sometimes pulling the recoil rope in the back gets it started a little quicker.
The solution has been to let the motor idle maybe 20 seconds longer before turning the key on top of the car to wind it up so the wheels will roll. Sometimes pulling the recoil rope in the back gets it started a little quicker.
4th Gear
Joined: Apr 2003
Posts: 545
Likes: 0
From: California S.F. East Bay
>>It's for you or it's not.
>>
>>I'm Considering these that are within my range-
>>
>>MC
>>MCS
>>Lotus Elise
>>Audi TT
>>M3
>>S4
>>Z4
>>M Coupe
>>EVO
>>STI
>>Range Rover
>>H2
>>BoxsterS
>>Tourag
>>
>>
>>It's a tough choice. And It's a lot of fun
You're kidding, right? If these are all withing your range, get one of each, since most of them are such totally different drives. But don't get the H2. I mean jeeze, why go half way? Get an H1 or nothn'.
>>
>>I'm Considering these that are within my range-
>>
>>MC
>>MCS
>>Lotus Elise
>>Audi TT
>>M3
>>S4
>>Z4
>>M Coupe
>>EVO
>>STI
>>Range Rover
>>H2
>>BoxsterS
>>Tourag
>>
>>
>>It's a tough choice. And It's a lot of fun
You're kidding, right? If these are all withing your range, get one of each, since most of them are such totally different drives. But don't get the H2. I mean jeeze, why go half way? Get an H1 or nothn'.
4th Gear
Joined: Apr 2003
Posts: 545
Likes: 0
From: California S.F. East Bay
>>Hey everyone,
>>Before I buy my MCS, I just wanted to hear from everyone onwning a MCS what problems or bad qualities you have experienced with your car.
>>I am still tossing up whether to get the car.
The MINI is so much fun, there are only a couple of reasons for *not* buying one.
1. Cost is no issue, and you're going to spend tens of thousands of $ more for a big-name, big engine, full-bore performance sports coupe.
2. Cost is an issue, and you can't quite justify the few thousand more, for a MINI vs. a less expensive (less fun) ride.
3. The MINI will be your only car, and it just doesn't have enought room for your needs.
Otherwise, go ahead and get one. You'll have a blast!
>>Before I buy my MCS, I just wanted to hear from everyone onwning a MCS what problems or bad qualities you have experienced with your car.
>>I am still tossing up whether to get the car.
The MINI is so much fun, there are only a couple of reasons for *not* buying one.
1. Cost is no issue, and you're going to spend tens of thousands of $ more for a big-name, big engine, full-bore performance sports coupe.
2. Cost is an issue, and you can't quite justify the few thousand more, for a MINI vs. a less expensive (less fun) ride.
3. The MINI will be your only car, and it just doesn't have enought room for your needs.
Otherwise, go ahead and get one. You'll have a blast!
1st Gear
Joined: May 2003
Posts: 39
Likes: 0
From: Gallatin, TN
I've never had a car that is so much fun. 6600 miles. Yeah the milage isn't quite what I expected but it seems that at least once during every commute there's the opportunity to flex it's muscle. It just want's to have fun. This far outweighs any quirks that it has. No trips to the dealer but I'll be going soon to have it programed for rear fogs.