Hi All ...

Test drove my first Mini (plain coupe) today. Loved the engine/transmission/driveability. But came across an unxpected dislike. The demo had the sport seats (which I had planned to order). For me, the right seat bolster hit me in the upper arm when I was shifting or assuming my normal driving position. I also really missed having an armrest there. The bolsters seem designed for a very WIDE person. An option would be to not get the sport seats, but I kind of liked the red cloth/leather seating surfaces that seem to be only available with the sport seats. Questions for you all: Has anyone else been bothered by the sport seats? Anyone driven for a considerable distance in both types of seats that can offer an opinion on overall comfort? I understand that there are both Mini and after-market arm rests available. Has anyone used these? Do they help with the issue identified above?

Thanks!

 

My MC has the non sport seats,I do a 100 mile return commute to work.Each way is just over an hour.My back has never felt better.I have sat in and driven MINI's with the sportseats,they feel pretty good to me,but I've no real time with them.Heated seats rock.
I have an Elbow Landing Device,ELD,works great,cup holder still works,no tools required to install.Nice oval shape,fits right in,everyone thinks it's stock.

 

I don't know if this would be a solution to your problem, and I don't know how you would feel about an aftermarket solution, but there are several different "short shifter" kits that reduce the length of the throws between gears. Might be enough to keep your elbow from bumping the seat bolster.

 

I test drove a MINI with sport seats for 24 hours ( rented ) and it made my back sore. My MINI has the regular seats which for me are comfortable and does not make my back sore. I have the Elbow landing Device arm rest from TVA....it is fairly small, so fits in with ther decor and works well and easy to put in...and it happens to be the least expensive too

 

Guys, I have the sport seat and wouldn't have anything else. I took mine in for service and they gave me a loaner without. it was terrible. The guy that went with told me that, "If your had these seats in your Mini you would have let me out in Manchester and I would have walked home." It's about 90 miles to the dealer and Manchester is about half way. It's all in what you get used to. I'm 6'2" 200lbs so the seating position and seats fit me perfectly.

 

I have no problem with the sport seats at all. I also have installed the MINI OEM armrest and it works well. Obscures the handbrake a bit, but fits and looks great. I don't consider my self large, by any means, but you must be pretty skinny, or have a very long forearm if you are hitting the side bolster when you shift. I have never had the seat interfere with my shifting.

 

I like the standard seats better than the sport seats. Mine are very comfortable. I also have the elbo landing device, (ELD), and it works great. It's overpriced at $50 for the materials involved, but....it works so well it seems like a bargin.