Is there a big difference? I'm shopping for my first mini and want the R53, is paying more for a facelift model worth it? Does the supercharger change make that big a difference? I want to get up to about 200 hp or a little more.
Thanks.

 

Read this:
http://www.motoringfile.com/mini-r50r53-buyers-guide/

After I read it, I started searching for an '06, then found a good price on an '05 that was perfect color with options I wanted: heated seats, chrono pack, 17" wheels, HK Stereo. I wish it would have had xenon too, but after I drove it and heard the SC, it was all over....

 

Comes down to $$.
There are changes....
BUT finding a GOOD car to start is more important...
Getting a S to 200 HP to the wheels is pretty easy (that is what I have..simple bolt ons and a tune)...actually means MORE THAN A JCW..they measure to the crank...
The biggest plus to the 2005+ cars is the tranny ratio change...and GENERALLY BETTER BUILD QUALITY.