hello all,

I picked up my 2005 JCW about 2 weeks ago. Thought it's about time to post some pics/thoughts.

I am coming from a G35...I know these cars are in entirely different classes and tough to compare to one another, but in case anyone else is thinking of "downsizing"...

- The G35 definitely has more low end torque (duh). A blip of the throttle at low speeds can snap your head back. Be prepared to work a lot harder (shifting-wise) to see low end torque in the mini. It also seems to have more effortless acceleration....not necessarily faster but just smoother.

- The G35 definitely has a more plush ride quality. The mini of course is much more planted and has more roadfeel feedback. G35 has slightly more body roll through corners.

- In terms of handling, you can obviously slam the mini into corners with no fear. I kind of miss wagging the tail out on the G35 and throttle steering through corners. 2 different kinds of fun Hmmm gotta get that sway upgraded...

- The mini overall has a much sportier and more visceral feel to it. Due in no small part to the JCW exhaust note. I can't wait for that damn break in to be over. (605 mi so far in 12 days).

Ok...time for some MINI ****...

 

Very nice! It's always exciting to see new Mini ****!

Damn, now that I see your JCW door sills... I want them too!

What is the specification... what is your dash material called? I like it.

 

Very nice. Have fun.

2004 MCS, EB/EB, Lapis leather, Sport pkg., 15% pulley, Alta CAI, Milltec exhaust, densos

 

That IS nice!!! Thanks for sharing the pics!

I do understand the whole frame of reference thing. Among other cars, I come from a Geo Metro and an old Spitfire.....so obviously I'm thrilled w/ my Cooper!!!

 

Its the anthracite dash.

 

Cool, I ordered mine Friday, with that interior color and matching headliner.

 

Looks great!

RUN, don't walk, to the dealership and get that rear foglight. The aero kit looks great, but that black plug over the rear foglight area is way out of place against the dark silver painted bumper!

Also, the rear foglight completes your toggle switches!

 

I didn't get it because I am contemplating putting a reverse camera there. :smile:

 

Your new tint looks nice too!

I hate those stupid tinting laws in OH. I have seen so many cars from other states with dark tint on front and back windows and it looks so much more continuous. But, what can you do

 

Ooooh! Cool idea! Very nice MINI...happy motoring!


Clover

 

Tell me about it. The installer told me this was max legal tint but would have put more on if i wanted it. Don't want to give the cops another reason to pull me over, seeing as I don't have a front license plate right now... :smile:

It's only very noticably from a strait side view, from a 3/4 view you don't notice it much since you see through both the front and rear window shades.

 

That's a nice machine! congrats. yeah, G35C and MCS are two
totally different machines... I would know too.

 

Very nice motor; nothing like a fully loaded MCS!

 

You can't even open the flap in the air box 'till break-in is over. If you like it now, you're gonna love it the first time you redline third and realize how fast you are going, and then remember that you have three gears left . . .

Great lookin' MINI!

 

Sharp looking MINI.


Enjoy!

 

Is that works badge in the back hatch, part of the JCW package?

I am seriously considering the JCW package but I keep reading people saying its not worth it.. Warranty certainly is important to me and overall stock like feel. My MINI wont be delivered until August so I have time to think about it....

 

screw the law, if you get pulled over, just drop your windows so the cops dont get ancy.....

i'm going 35 on the sides, 20 on the rear

 

Yes.

 

Wow, gorgeous car!!! Get that break-in over with already!

 

I'm not worrying too much about a front license plate. My husband doesn't have one on his Evo. If they don't bother a loud, bright yellow car with a big wing, they better leave me alone

 

I put those on too when we put on my Aero kit. Another bit of JCW bling that I have is new stickers on the hub caps. One of my MINI ones fell off. The dealer mailed me a new one, but accidentally sent me one that was a JCW emblem. Once I saw it, I had to get 3 more!