Hello all, I am lookingto buy my first Mini, and would like some advise.

Does the S model give you that much more then the standard model?

I will be using the car for commuting and normal daily driving. No real need for high performance, but any more horespower is appreciated.

What accessories and packages are a "must have" and which are not worth the money?

I am probably going to look for a used 02 or 03 so, any insight into pitfalls of thise two model years would be appreciated.

Thanks,

Nick

 

Hello Nick:


I own both a 2002 Cooper CVT and a 2004 MCS, so I am qualified to give you some advice. BTW, welcome to NAM!

The MCS does feel more substantial than the standard Cooper in terms of performance. While neither car is a dragstrip racer (And they were not intended for that purpose), the MCS' supercharged engine has more low end torque and its more eager to build up power high in the RPM band at highway speeds. The 6-speed Getrag manual is firm but very pleasurable to engage and the clutch is very easy and extremely forgiving. The MCS is perhaps one of the EASIEST stick shift cars I have ever driven. The MCS for $3K more than a standard Cooper gives you so much more in terms of better mechanicals and the whole package just feels better to me. The MCS is more of a "driver's" or "Sports Car" while the Cooper is a more "Sporty/economical" vehicle. But don't get me wrong both are TONS of fun!.

The Cooper needs to be "worked out" a bit more to develop power but that is part of the charm of the 115hp model. The Cooper does feel lighter than the MCS and it feels a bit more nimble around turns. I have not driven the 5-speed model but the CVT is highly recommended if you daily drive involves lots of stop and go traffic. The CVT is a fantastic transmission (I have 25K miles with absolutely no problems) and it gives you a wide range of choices such as Normal mode, Sport Mode and simulated 6-speed Steptronic mode (Remember the CVT tranny has no gears, so the gearing ratios are infinite and therefore the feel of this "automatic" is totally different from the 4-speed slushboxes found on any other car out in the street).

The MCS uses more gas, rides harder but boy what fun it is to feel the power and hear the supercharger whine. If you are into "modding" your car, then the MCS will be the better choice over the Cooper.

It is a very hard call to determine which one is better suited for your needs/wants. That decision can only be made by you but we will try to steer you into the right path.

As far as options, neither one of my MINis has any packages (Both were factory custom orders) but I highly recommend from the options menu the Multifunction steering wheel (Includes cruise control and remote stereo controls a MUST), Harmon Kardon stereo, front and rear fog lights and Rain sensing wipers with self dimming rear view mirror. Leatherette seats are my favorite (I think MINI's real leather is of very poor quality) and if going with a Cooper get the Sport seats for better comfort and grip.

Sunroofs, NAV systems, automatic A/Cs, leather, trip computers, etc are all very cool options but it is your call whether you would spring for those or not. I personally think that less is better and the MINI si already a very nicely equipped car in stock form.

As far as tires I personally prefer to stick with stock 15" and 16" sizes, I am not a fan of big, low profile tires in these cars due to their vulnerability to damage due to potholes, curbs, etc. besides these cars were designed to perform BEST in smaller and lighter tire/wheel combos.

Stick to mid or late 2003 production year MINis or 2004's. Although my 2002 Cooper CVT has been troublefree, the first year had some quality control issues. These cars have gradually gotten better and better as the months have come by, so you'll be better off going to the newest build dates you can find. Have you considered ordered a new 2005 MINI? Used ones are very expensive and approach the price levels of new cars, so weigh your options carefully.
My '04 MCS has 10,700 troublefree miles and has not been back to the dealer for any unscheduled repairs in over 10 months since taking delivery. These are indeed HIGH QUALITY AUTOMOBILES in the best of BMWs tradition.

If you have anymore specific questions, feel free to post them or send me a PM. I'll be glad to help.

 

The only thing the "S" gives you is more horsepower. The standard Cooper will more then do you for normal city driving / commuting. The "S" really shines at higher then legal freeway speeds. It is way easy to go too fast.

02 was the first model year and there were a few issues that had to be worked out with the earlier cars. By the time 04 came around the build quality had greatly improved.

I'm not sure what used MINI's are selling for right now but I do know they hold their trade in values pretty well. The difference between buying new and used might not be all that great.

As far as packages go I ordered all except the nav unit. My favorite things are, Xenon lamps, leather seats with seat warmers and the big old sunroof.
It is pretty easy to push the price up, but when you are spending 15-20K, what is a couple thousand more to get what you want??

 

Welcom to NAM

Get the MFSW for sure.

I would not get the sun roof again, I don't use it and it is heavy.

Earl

 

KCIN67 - boy, do I have a mini for you I am currently selling my 2003 Mini Cooper since I have ordered and about to receive my 2005 MCS
the specs of my mini are as follows
2003 Pure Silver/Black MC
5 speed
black leatherette interior
only 8500 miles, always pampered and always garaged
Premium & chrome package which includes dual pane moonroof, Auto A/C, Multi function steering wheel, on board trip computer, chrome exterior trim
17 in. alloy wheels/tires (only 3000 miles on them)

here's a pic
http://www.getccnp.com/minicanyon.jpg

I am looking for a good home for her......

Let me know.