Two things:
1) went to Rasmussen to get a new Xenon bulb for the S, $200. OUCH. It lasted 90,000 miles, but they don't tell you replacement cost when you opt for the upgraded lights. Excellent service though!

2) test drove the '07 Cooper S. WOW. That is how the MINI should behave. They advertise the MINI as a quick little compact, and the new MINI lives up to that. My 03 S makes me wait a little for some power from the s/c (even with the 15% pulley), then the car gets precocious. The 07 doesn't even wait; it gets downright naughty... right now. There is no lag. As soon as you drop the clutch, it's on. As far as handling, very smooth. Corners tight, holds firm, feels balanced at city-safe speeds. Definitely waiting to see what JCW has in store...

dan

 

I believe the gearbox has more to do with this than the turbo. Felt a similar difference when I upgraded to an '05 transmission on my '02.

 

I would agree with the tranny change effect. I have driven a newer JCW car too, and this 07 S felt like the JCW upon launch. No doubt the JCW is still a faster car, but that low end torque really helps. I'm just very impressed with the whole package.

dan

 

I do need to drive one.

I just wish it looked a little less like a bloated blowfish in the front.

Who knows... with my apparent automobile addiction....I might end up with one anyhow.

 

If you need a new home for your precious JCW......

 

The Black one is his wifes! He had to go out and buy his own, like me!

 

And I thought I was the only one that had to ask to drive the MINI

I'm stuck with my gas guzzling SUV... good thing I commute to Iowa for work... my car makes it from my house to the airport once a week.. thats about it

 

You sold me out! LOL.

And to thing I flirted with an NSX for so long, bought an M3 and STILL ended up with a MINI.

They are like gravity.

Undeniable.