Do coilovers dramatically improve handling over stock setup on '06 GP? I'd also like to know what the "extra" small cup-like cylinder is on the top-of-the-line KWs. Of the known brands (Bilstein, Eibach, Koni, HR, KW, etc) which gets the vote of confidence and is preferred by passionate MINIanados?

 

In my personal opinion I would say KW would be the best Quality and performance, as for the cost factor not so much.
You have to pay to play! = )

 

http://www.ohlinsusa.com/automotive-.../2/Mini+Cooper

 

I just swapped my stock mcs suspensions for bilstein B16PSS10 coilovers and all I can say is that the ride is a bit firmer than stock so it harms comfort a little bit even at the most soft setting. But I can tell you that the improvement is really worth it when it comes to handling benefit, it is simply incredible how planted the car feels now, the added grip on the front wheels feels like I gained some power! Amazing upgrade honestly.

 

+1


we have ohlins on the autox r56

 

The cheapest coilovers are mostly a way to LOWER a car...
Unless you are ready to spend some decent $$ (more then 90% of folks will want to spend on a mini), I would expect handling to be no better than stock....
Remember...mini spent thousands of miles and likely as many hours tuning the handling on a track with professional drivers....don't expect to do anything but lower you car with typical sub $2000 coilover.....
Now on a higher mile car....going from a worn out factory suspension to a coilover might feel great.....but obviously worn out to new....

 

yep i've got them on the evo.. 8k/10k rates, makes me laugh how good the damping is