What differences are there between pre-facelift (2002-2004) R53's and their post-facelift (2005-2006) counterparts, other than the motor mounts, teflon-coated supercharger, and the LSD?

Also, could one hypothetically remove the LSD from a post-facelift R53 and put it into a pre-facelift car?

 

The transmission gear ratios are different.

There are also exterior and interior cosmetic differences.

 

Google motoringfile, there are many subtle changes inside and out. LSD is optional on facelift, not standard.

 

I'm sure there are more, but the tail lights are different (reverse light moved from bumper into tail light) and there are lights in the headliner where the clock was. Not every post facelift car had LSD. You can swap transmissions. I did. But you lose the cruise control abilities in the pre facelift car except for 3rd gear. The gear ratios changed between 04 and 05. I haven't found a concrete answer on how to remedy that yet.

 

The LSD was an option. some interior trim and lighting , Headlights, Taillights, Gear ratio on the manual transition. There is a Wt sensor in the passenger seat for airbag. the suspension is different on 2002. Seats have a different bolsters.


I have a 2003 made 07/2003 that I drove for 13 years I liked it. I just bought a 2005 JCW made 07/2004. I like it better. only JCW made in 2005 have factory LSD. sadly mine does not. I put 2012 pinhole leather seats in my JCW that are much nicer than the R53 seats.


Overall facelift is a more modern and refined car. I feel the Facelift car is the one to shop for. I got a 05 JCW with 78K for $6000. I feel it was a good deal since I paid $23K for my 03 and got 258K miles out of it.

 

LSD wasn't an option (2TA) until January 2005.

JCW Package (Tuning Kit, Sport Brakes, LSD) wasn't an option (3AL) until November 2005.

 

http://www.minitorque.com/forum/f29/...t-guide-29996/