Funny. This is not the only forum discussing this question:

http://www.lotustalk.com/forums/f152...r53-r56-52874/

 

Ahh! #3 was just sold

 

Well maybe it was not for You, do you still wanting the #2, or will buy a R53? just let us know.

 

Those folks are all over the map, just like us. Some on the fence, some like the R56 and some the R53.

I thought this guy summed it up pretty well for me, but I am sure many will disagree...

If you're looking for something more on the fun/Lotusish side grab the R53. Practical and more BMWish get the R56. If you want something even more practical and still decent fun grab a Clubman.

I have a late 06 R53 (some suspension bits and hubs from the R56) and don't ever plan on trading it for an R56. I've driven a couple R56's with different tires and whatever and this is my second older one (I had an R50 [Cooper]) and I find the R56 has so much less soul than my R53 or R50. The steering and go-kart feel of the R50/53 is severely lacking in the R56 as well as the overall connection to the road. Plus, I think the R56 fell right out of the ugly tree compared to the R53. Just my opinion though, you should definitely get seat time in them both before you make a decision, they are definitely different beasts.

I underlined that last part because I think its the most important part.

 

I'm trying to set up a time to check out #2.

Yeah, that post stood out for me as well. Reminds me of how my Honda S2000 was. First generation was the raw one with 9k redline. Second was a bit more tame. I got the second generation and absolutely loved it still.

 

Keep on looking, your MINI is out there. Good hunting, no matter what flavor you buy you'll love it.

 

why do you want an automatic? for sitting in traffic?

btw the tax *break* thing, i dunno if you've bought a used car before, but when you register your car at the dmv they'll make you pay *use tax* which is calculated based on your *reported* value of purchase. so like someone already said, doesn't matter where your car originates, you'll still have to pay some tax. (btw i think this is pretty messed up, 'cuz somebody already pay tax on it when it was bought new, so this is like re-taxing something that was already taxed, which seems wrong to me)

and btw i like the jcw one

 

Why do I want an automatic? Because I do

 

 

Wow, the MINI Lowrider! The front end is clean.

 

def get the 06 with 6 speed. you will be more unique since the newer models are what everyone is buying right now. Plus 6 speed is where its at! ';]

 

R53!!!R53!!!R53!!!R53!!!R53!!!R53!!! Keep it with the best mini! Ricers like hondas do the turbo thing, not that the new minis arent awesome i love all minis, just not my fav; and MINIs' are by no means ricer. I own an R50 so you can take my vote as one that isnt coming from an owner of neither ya know. So not to hate on the new mini but i would say def go with the supercharged !!!!!!

 

R53 all the way. Less refined ride, yeah, but if that's your style then you wont look back.