I posted this in the R56 forum also and would like to hear from here as well.

"Looking at 2 S models, one an '04 and one an '08. Similar equipment and both at 42k miles.
Anyone regret moving to an R56? They seem to have a lot of issues compared to my previous experince with an R53.

Thanks"

 

The wife and I bought pepper(06 r50 base) new off lot back in the day. We went back to the dealer about every year and can't help but notice that there is something special about our mini. We could never trade our mini in for a new one. The aesthetics on the inside of our mini just looks and feels right. Granted, I wanted the "s", but this little guy grew on me. My advice, sit in and drive both cars, you will know which one is calling you.

 

I have an 05 JCW and like it very much. Have not had any major problems with car since it was purchased New. Oil changes,plugs, and other routine maintenance. The 2nd gen seems to have many problems that I have followed on NAM. Even after over 5 years on new model they seem to be having same old problems or new ones that appear to be cropping up each day. I personnaly woud not buy the second gen but would buy 1st gen.IMHO.

 

Thank you for you replies.
I do like the exhaust burble.
:-)

 

I bought my 06 R53 used off a dealer lot. Drove a brand new '10 S then drove the '06 S... I ended up buying this S. Haven't regretted it once... I'd always choose a first gen over a second gen.

 

I have had my 04 MC40 since new and I have looked at the R56 ones but since I have had very little problems with mine there is no reason to change. Plus I personally think the build quality of the R56 is lacking abit when compared to the R53. R53 does have some issues, (oil seeps, Power steering pumps) but nothing that will leave you stranded and it is alot easier to work on too.

 

I made my pro-R53 point in your other thread, but I did forget one thing. If you have any interest in car audio, go with the R53... the head unit can be swapped out no problem. As I understand it, changing the HU in the R56 is practically impossible due to how it is integrated with other systems in the car.

 

i love my r53 jcw....sometimes i wish it was turboed.

that can always be arranged though

 

R53 is a drivers car hands down.

 

cheers to that my friend!