I love my 2006 GP but I drove the new one and boy do I want one. CRAP! I hate this. My 2006 is mint with only 22,000 miles and I can't afford to have both. CRAP! Rant over.

GP1257.

 

I hear ya. Test drove a GP2 last week and was tempted as well. If I was in the market for a MINI hardtop today, the GP2 would be the one to get.

But in the end, it was just not worth letting go of my 2006 GP to get the new one at this time.

 

Keep the '06 and buy the '13, done!

 

+1 Parked together GP and GP 2 .

 

I saw this one at the dealership a couple days ago. Almost $40k, but what a hot-looking MINI!

 

Don't think that would go over so well at home

GP1257.

 

Can we get some pix of your GP2 and TTRS hanging out together?

 

Had a second test drive and I must say this is one refined MINI. I might have to do this. Would be tough to let GP1257 go but,,,,,,,

GP1257.

 

You'll miss the supercharger :D

 

I think you're spot on. The only right way to do this is own both. Or maybe get that JCW Clubman I've had my eye on I need to lock myself up!

GP1257.

 

JackMac-

Compared to your 2006 GP does the 2013 GP feel more refined to you?

 

Short answer is yes. Very similar to most of the typical R53/R56 comparisons, with a few exceptions:

First, the GP2 coilover suspension is like no other MINI. It actually felt stiffer than the JCW suspension on the 2006 GP. You feel the road for sure. This car is planted.

Second, the GP2 6-pot brakes are insane. Far more stopping power than you need for daily driving on the street in such a light car. Just breath on them and you stop RIGHT NOW. Use them with caution.

Last, the GP2 interior is a great place to operate. Very seductive.

Otherwise, the engine, clutch, and overal driving experience is similar to the R56 JCW. More refined than the R53 GP for sure. The R53 GP is such a raw experience, not for everyone, but I am addicted to it. I would probably not give up the R53 GP for an R56 GP. Rather, would love to have both. But just havent figured how to work that out yet without getting a divorce, open to suggestions .

So I'm in the same boat as Willie. GP2, JCW Clubman, or ?

 

Saw 2 GP's in Schaumburg, IL at the BMW/Mini offices ...... #'s 175 and 0176 . Man they look sharp!

 

I agree with JackMak completely. I have had the pleasure of driving the new GP for 300 break in miles. What a joy! This GP is way more refined than my 2006.

The 2006 is much more raw. You feel everything which is good. I love the supercharged feel. in 2006, it was and still is an amazing offering. The 2013 is very refined yet all MINI GP. Fit and finish is spot on. Interior to die for. Suspension is amazing and the brakes are insane. This car does everything better than the 2006 but that doesn't make it better, it makes it different. Very different. I really like it for daily driving as it's more comfortable than the 2006 but it's ready to perform in all areas at will. I want to own both but have not figured out how to do that. My wife could care less but at 54 I'm starting to get more sensible. How boring is that?

The new GP is very special and ultimately I really want the car. Giving up my 22,000 mile dead perfect 2006? Well that would be difficult. It's really nice. I'm torn to say the least. If someone drops 25K in my lap, I'm going to be in trouble

GP1257.

 

They do look kinda nice in the driveway.

GP1257.

 

Looks like Willie did it? They look great in the drive together.

 

Actually I didn't. The one on the left isn't mine. It mat be soon but for now I'm just lucky to be doing the break in miles.

GP1257.

 

Nice. Well Irvine MINI called me today, they still have 3 available. Said I could come by and test drive it if I wanted. :D

 

MINI of Camarillo has three as well. If you're in the area stop in. They will let folks test them gently

GP1257.

 

If you are really thinking about it go ahead and do it. I have owned two of the 2006 GP's which I loved and had a great time with. This new GP is a totally diferent car. It handles great has a nice smooth engine and transmission and after 800 miles I am starting to really get into it. I will be testing it out on the Dragon next week.

 

Thanks for the comparison. Sounds like most people are in love.

"The R53 GP is such a raw experience"

 

willieboy-

Nice , makes a great pair