So, I'm new to the mini community and I'll be purchasing my first one later this month. I have a budget that I want to stay in and its under 28k. I found a 2015 Mini Cooper hardtop for about the same price as a 2012 JCW hardtop. Roughly 25k with only 15k miles. The JCW is only 2 door, but from what I'm hearing JCW is probably my better choice. Anyone shed some light on this decision? Thanks!

 

When you say 2015 cooper hardtop, is assume you're talking about the base and not the s right?

These two cars are in different categories just on size alone. So I think the space need is the first need.

Then I think it comes down to the options in each and how much you can live with either and your need or want for all out performance.

I'm in a similar debate between waiting on a new 4 for JCW variant (if one is even built)/ or a 5 door S or getting a used JCW clubman or hardtop and deal with the lack of space. I'll likely end up ordering a new one since I struggle finding any mini used with the options I want.

 

[QUOTE=NJ Mini;4056890]When you say 2015 cooper hardtop, is assume you're talking about the base and not the s right?

These two cars are in different categories just on size alone. So I think the space need is the first need.

Then I think it comes down to the options in each and how much you can live with either and your need or want for all out performance.




Yes, its the base model.
And I definitely want the performance and space isn't a HUGE deal for me, as I don't have any kids. But, I really want a car that's going to handle well, and just have an overall great drive, every day. The reason I ask is basically... Is the JCW worth it? As in, am I going to regret getting a used JCW for a brand new base 5 door? Or vice versa?

 

You will regret getting a new Base over a used JCW. The JCW is faster, handles better and has way more options and aftermarket go fast goodies than the base. If space isn't the issue, you will kick yourself later on for not going for the performance.

 

JCW is much much better!

 

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Yea, that's exactly what I needed to hear. I think I'll be going with the JCW. I have not driven both yet to compare them, but I will this upcoming weekend. Also,I am definitely planning on getting a roof rack. Good call on that one!

Last question, and it may sound like total ... Hypocrisy? But I don't have kids now, but will be starting a family eventually. My wife is super worried about car seats. I've read somewhere that you can fit a car seat in the back. Is it just an absolute huge pain, or could we manage down the line if we have to?

 

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Interesting dilemma. Many years ago, after my first child was born I had an '82 two door VW Sirocco. After struggling with the baby carrier, I gave up and bought a mini van. Having a cargo door was very handy after the second one came along..

 

Welcome to my dilemma. I have a tsx but only one garage spot which was why traded in my 2010 MCS; I needed more space. After having a baby, the rear-facing car seat is the big issue. So long as you have another car you are fine. If it's he only vehicle, then it's tough. Even if you get past the car seat issues, you have to deal with the stroller, baby bag, toys, etc. This is why I have been searching (fruitlessly) for a well optioned jcw clubman and considering the 5 door in the future. Not an easy decision but if you're still a ways off from kids, enjoy the jcw and save up for a family car in the meantime.

 

The only word of caution I'll throw out is because of the poor reputation Mini has for reliability I would not own a Mini that didn't have a full factory warranty.

 

Everything you do prior to having kids will drastically change once they arrive. I repeat EVERYTHING changes, if it doesn't then you are probably in denial. Just keep that in mind. Just might have your last fling with a car before the day comes. LOL

Toyota MiniVan - it sure was ugly and a beast, glad it is long gone.

 

I fit a Recaro Performance RIDE in the back of my 2003 with no issues whatsoever forward facing. It's a little tight if my wife is also with me, but the seat goes in and attaches easily. Rear facing worked, along with a Bugaboo Frog just to see if it fit - and it did. It wasn't easy getting her in backwards, but front facing is no issue.

 

Kinda hard to compare those 2 cars. 1 is 4 door of course which is more of a DD/grocery getter compared to the JCW which is more of a performance car.. Why not compare a new 2 door Base or S model.. If you need the 4 doors your choice is already made..

 

I have an '09 JCW and at my wife's request I've put the toddler rear-facing seat destined for my youngest to use in her van before long in the MINI's back seat behind the passenger seat. My 2 year old likes going for rides and regularly lets out a "Wheee!". So we may have to get a third toddler seat instead to go in the van. But it is a pain to get her in & out. I usually have to have her crawl in then I duck in after and hope she lets me buckle her in without issue. Getting her out can be even more interesting some days.

 

I have 2 kids, one 6 and one 4. They are both forward facing, and fit in the back seats, one behind me (I'm 6'2") and one behind my wife. I doubt the rear facing seat would be as comfortable, unless it was behind the passenger seat and the passenger is really short. Getting them in and out is simple enough with the passenger seat folded forward, I can easily do up their seatbelts. And it's true, everything changes when you have kids. I swore I would never own a mini-van, but the extra space was awesome when the kids were both young. Now that they're both forward facing, the van is gone. Wife has a Kia Rio, and I have a Mini.

 

The 2012 JCW has an N14 engine...do your research first.