I am new to the forum in trying to research as much as I can before buying a used Mini. I stop owners I see to ask questions and read through forums and at this point I am looking for a 6 speed manual. I see the names Midland and Getrag. I have heard the Getrag is robust so I am wondering what years it was factory installed with the 6 speed? Does the Midland make a 6 speed? I would like to get a S series. I see R50 and R53, is the R50 the non supercharged and the R53 the S? I found a nice looking 03 with a 6 speed manual, how can I check which brand it is?
Thanks for the help and insight.

 

All r53, the one with the supercharger, the S, has the 6 speed getrag...a great unit...the auto was added in 2005, an conventional unit by asin...also a good unit.
The problems with tranys have been with the r50, base cooper, the cvt mostly, and the midlands 5 speed....up to about 2005.

 

Thanks for the info. So basically any 6 speed manual in any year MC would be considered a good choice...

 

For a tranny relibility standpoint...
The gear ratio on the 6 speed (only found on the S) was changed in 2005 , along with other changes to make the car faster, and generaly better.
If you csn afford it, the 2005 or 2006 cars have numerous small improvements compared to earlier s's.