I just bought two power operated Mercedes sport seats made by Recaro (black leather, but really beat up and in need of repair) in a police auction and I had a question about the power operated part - could it be adapted to be power operated in the MINI? Is there any big issue with that? It has its own rails, will those be compatible with the MINI or what should be done about them if not?

PS: Got these seats for fifty bucks - they're 8 way adjustable, look fantastic, and fit like a glove - still haven't decided if I'm going to sell them on eBay or not.

 

Somebody help me! Doesn't anyone know something about the electonics of these seats? Or about installing new seats for that matter? I need advice!

 

if they fit in the car i'm sure they would work. you basically have to just get power to them and maybe a ground. it could be done with a bit of work, but would it look like you took a set of seats and put them in a mini? now getting them recovered in the same cloth and making them look like factory seat would be really nice. and while your at it, if they don't already have holes for a 5 point harness add them and be really trick. good luck

 

First thing I'd do get a measure on the rails and seat. Then measure the Mini's, to see if it's even feasible to put them in. If the seats aren't too wide, you may just have to drill new mounting holes. Make sure there's nothing in the way for these and that there's adequate room for reinforcing plates or washers underneath (this is to prevent the bolts from pulling through the floor under stress....seat belts and airbags won't do any good if it does).
Power to the seats shouldn't be a major problem. I guess the biggest thing is that I'm assuming you're mechanically inclined. If I'm wrong, find someone who is to help you. There are some pitfalls that can happen where the experience of someone can be helpful in making the transition relatively painless.

 

Contact Recaro USA and ask for a local installer, they will be able to tell you if it will work after looking at it.