So I have an R56 and before adding a few mods to it , would you recommended I just trade it in and shell out a few more K for the JCW version? If so what why? Thanks in advance

 

If your R56 is an S, keep it, mod it, and get a tune. For the extra $ you'd spend for a used JCW, you can have a better suspension and the same power, with the reliability improvements of the N18 engine. After all I have read about the N14 engine, I'd be very wary of it. Lots of threads here about the N14 and its issues.

If you're looking at a 2013+ JCW with the N18, then that's a harder decision. Depends on your budget and how much you like the trim differences. But the same argument above applies.

If your current car is not an S, then I'd for sure trade up, but again be wary of the N14. If an N14 equipped car is all that's in the budget, then look for one where the timing chain / tensioner work has been done, and also the updated valve cover.

 

Complete novice here , but does my car have the N18 engine? I just see all these JCWs and then I look at my car notice it's only an S. Idk I just feel weird. I feel like I got the middle base model lol. I was thinking of just upgrading the JCW body kit and then putting on the badges, but then I'd feel like a fake :( . Decisions

 

No "shame" in adding the JCW body kit, you could have done that with an initial order of your MINI. Our dealer here had a Justa convertible with a JCW body kit installed.


Adding badges...ok, that's a little faking it :-)


As someone else posted, you can gain equivalent performance with yours by doing some engine mods.


JCWs are worth having, I get it. I crave the dark-face gauges, actually. I would've ordered one in 2012, but they wouldn't build one in Ice Blue. I just went with the JCW tuning kit (takes the 182hp to 197hp, still short of the factory JCW 208) and ordered other deluxe stuff. The tuning kit also provides JCW badges, but apply in different spots than factory JCW cars. Lots of threads here on the value (or lack thereof) of the JCW tuning kit, and clearly you can get a 15hp boost from some combination of aftermarket products and spend less.


Anyhow.


If you really prefer a JCW, you prolly will always wish you had one. If it's within your means, then why not?


There: Both sides of the argument for you :-)


You current car does have the N18 engine.

 

From what I remember, the major improvement between the N18 and N14 is reduced carbon buildup in the intake ports due to a revised PCV system. Early N14's had significant issues with timing chains and tensioners, and the problem gradually got improved over the years. I don't believe that the N18 has a different timing chain system than the N14, but I could be wrong.

On any of these engines, oil changes are critical. The factory reccomended a very long oil change interval. Many of these engines use oil, so it was possible for engine damage to occur due to running out of oil.

N14 and N18 will still have issues with water pump and thermostat leaks, as well as leaks with the oil filter housing, turbo oil line, and valve cover.

The JCW's have a different turbo, different pistons, and a stronger clutch than the normal S. Whether that is worth it or not is up to you. Like others have said, you can use aftermarket parts to get as good (or better) performance as a JCW.

If you think that you want a JCW, then get one. I'm happy with my S. A old tune (10-15 hp) makes a world of difference for me.

Have fun,
Mike

 

According to Realoem.com, the clutch for the R56 (LCI) is the same for the S and JCW. You are correct about the pistons and turbo.

The N18 also adds variable timing and lift on the intake valves.

 

I say do it! Best decision I've made. I traded in my 2010 MCS for a 2013 JCW. I only had my S for 6 months too.

If you can find one, go with a 2013 JCW since that is the only year it came with the N18 or mid 2012 (also N18)

 

I would gladly take a 2013 MCS over a 2010 MCS JCW on one principle alone, the N14 MCS model JCW or not has one flaw that can't be forgiven! Oil coked intake valves like these Here, I don't know about you but I prefer my valves free from oil burning itself onto the valve then burning the valve structurally weakening it. The N18 doesn't burn oil like the N14, oil coats the compressor wheel and the catalytic converter.

 

I too have a 2013 MCS. I've already done all the mods that you are talking about and I'm too scared to add up the receipts (probably about $10k). If I was to do it over again then I would have bought the 2013 GP2 that was sitting in the showroom which was listing at $11k more than my car.

If you can get a nice 2013 JCW at a reasonable price then I'd make the switch. Must be a 2013 with the N18 engine.

 

We "got lucky" w/ our N14 over 50,000 miles, the only major issue being the tensioner backing out and dumping all the oil. If it hadn't happened in a parking lot, there would have been serious issues...

That said, I would never knowingly buy into an N14 with what I now know. And I have a high risk tolerance, both of my cars aren't exactly cheap to fix if they break. I think the N18 MCS is a far better long-term prospect than an N14 JCW.

Having driven an F30 328i, I just want Mini to pop an N20 in the bay.