Getting ready to order my CM and I wanted to doublecheck with owners who have a manual 6-spd non-S - I am thinking the sport suspension will improve the fun factor and help since I can't get a turbo (too much temptation and too many tickets).

I have an 08 non-S 6-spd Cooper hardtop and have thoroughly enjoyed it but I've not had a chance to drive a CM with the sport suspension - so what's the verdict people? Thanks, R.

 

Sounds like you really just want to know about whether to get the sport suspension or not.

The pros and cons of the sport suspension are:
Pros:
- Better handling at the limit
- Tighter feel
Cons:
- rougher ride
- bouncy ride
- ride that will shake your fillin's right out of your teeth

So:
- If you live in an area that has mostly poorly maintained roads and do the majortiy of your drinving on a highway (most US drivers) don't get it because you won't take advantage to the better handling and you'll be dealing with a crappy ride 100% of the time.
- If you live in an area that has mostly well maintained roads with roundabouts and / or lots of curves (Western Europe) or you plan on tracking you CM, go for it and have fun.

I have sport suspension on my 06 MCS but I did not get it on the CM.

 

Well there were a few postings i've seen which suggest the sport pkg on the Cm is quite a bit less harsh than on the regular MC. So thats why i was asking specifically the question to Countryman owners...so that does raise the question is the sport pkg softer on the CM?

Thx R

 

The info I can provide will be too late but I have a Countryman S manual on order with the sports suspension that has just been built. Waiting for it to get on the boat and head my way. I figure if I can live with a straight axle heavy duty truck a Countryman with sports suspension should be luxury.

 

I like the combination of the 17" wheels, and the sport suspension. I test drove a CM with the 18" wheels & sport susp., and it was a bit too harsh. I also drove a 17" wheeled CM with the std. suspension (while my car was in for repairs) and it rode great, but had more body roll. I think the 17" & sport suspension is a good mix of both. The run-flats poor road manners are more of a detraction than the sport suspension.

Mark

 

I have both, on 17in Bridgestone Dueller ROFs and the ride and handling are fine.

I can't comment re a petrol Cooper though as my All4D has much more torque.