What is the difference between the two transmissions besides gear ratios? Will the 2006 mini cooper transmission work with the 2002?

Here are the two VIN's if it helps:

2006:
WMWRC33536TK72649

2002:
WMWRC33472TC37715

 

They changed it from a Midlands 5 speed to a Getrag 5 speed.

 

I believe both card are 5 speeds not 6.

 

You could always change it to the 6spd Getrag like in the Cooper S if you are having problems.
See this http://personal.stevens.edu/~jdunn/F...heWeakLink.pdf

Check this thread out.
http://forum.minicooper.org/showthread.php?t=9643

 

I know the cv joints/axels are different on a cooper with the midlands vs the getreg....number og splines are different....so more involved than just a tranny swap.

 

I'm just trying to find out if a guy with an 02' will be able to swap in my 06 tranny. I don't need to know my upgrade options.

 

From 2002-2006, the non-S Cooper had a 5 speed transmission (Midlands at first, Getrag later). The Cooper S had a 6 speed. With automatic, the non-S had a CVT transmission that was prone to spectacular failure, and the S had a standard 6 speed auto.