Hello,

I am planning on buying a MINI Cooper S Convertible next year and would like to know what is worth adding and not adding to the MINI-vertible S.

Also, can other MINI-vertible S owners from the Northern NJ area chime in and let me know how your MINIs make out w/the snow storms this past winter (especially w/the soft top and 2 feet of snow on it)? I've read mixed notes on it.

Does anyone know if MINI will ever allow for air conditioned seats? I know they offer heated seats - but a/c seats would be awesome.

Also, when I built one 2 yrs ago, I believe I chose the run-flat tires. Are these good to get w/the car? or should I go with another type of tire? I particularly like the black rim (don't know the name of it) it's the only black rim I believe that looks like a daisy. I also hear you can get snow tires from Cosco.... (too many opinions - confused here)

Is there a guide to pampering the MINI as far as car washing and interior cleaning goes? Is it better to get the all leather seats or the standard ones?

So many questions here..... Looking forward to any and all suggestions and comments. Thanks in advance.

Angel
(future MINIvertible Owner)

 

There should be a big discount for VERTs in the winter...so wait.

 

I've heard some stuff about aftermarket seat coolers, at least in seat covers etc. check it out. also, run flats suck. Too much money to deal with. Get all season for no extra charge! Carry a spare and either learn how to change a flat [yeah, it sucks doing that in a snowstorm] or get AAA for 45 bucks a year.

 

I live in CT and my vert is parked outside year round. The top held up flawlessly this winter with all the snow on it. You will want a set of snow tires for the winter. go for the all seasons over the runflats and keep a can of fix a flat in the boot. With the all season tires you may not need snow tires right away but they do make a big difference in driveability.

 

Worth adding are those xenon lights and the the awesome HK radio.

 

And as for pampering and cleaning your MINI....well it all depends on how OCD you are. I have never heard of a MINI specific book on cleaning your car though... But if you look in the detailing forum then you will be able to get a lot of good info.

Just some general points: get lots of microfiber cloths (I bought a giant pack from BJs) those are for generally drying and applying wax , I also got a double sided one that it good for quick buffering. I also suggest "Back to Black" from Mothers, great stuff for the black trim on the car. Wheel cleaner is big because of the break dust.

 

In snowstorms...you'll be more attentive of snow on the roof and when to sweep it off.