Here's my latest project, a 2004 R53... in the past I spent the money to get my R53 examples in near perfect condition and then just did simple mods and updates. Current finances won't allow that, but with a pair of new hips I should be able to turn wrenches again!

Going in a little different direction with this one - removing all the dents but I have already begun wet sanding and clear coating the patina in place.

Looking for new seats to replace the narrow buckets - I really don't fit with my surprisingly full tush, and with a hip issue it is tough to get in and out of them. Not sure if I'll pick up stock from ALL MAG or similar or go with a set of aftermarket.

Have all new body and trim gaskets in hand, a new stock intercooler. The current one actually blocks the front intercooler scoop - I'm sure someone installs these with slight mods to the scoop but I'd prefer not to - I'm not planning on tracking the car and I never had an issue with a stock intercooler in any of my other R53, although the intercooler on my GP is larger.

I think I need new wheels and tires - tires for sure but these wheels appear to be 17x9 (and it looks like +50mm offset) and I don't believe there is a combination that won't stick out and rub. The wheel arches have been trimmed to allow these to fit and that isn't going to work for me! If anyone has insight into the wheel and tire combo I'd love to hear it - I like the aggressive stance of these but I can't abide an open engine bay and cut wheel arches.

Surprisingly, the metal under the arches hasn't been cut or rolled. I hade 225/45/17 on my JCW without issues.

The are adjustable coilovers already installed and I am going to have to do a little research to see what I can do with those - I have never ahd adjustable coilovers on any of my cars.

I have new wheel arch plastic ordered and my paintless dent guy is coming Sunday to begin the dent work. It looks like someone put their fat derriere on the hood

That's a start. I just had a hip replaced last Tuesday so I think just that will keep my busy for a little bit. A little work and then a lot of rest is what I've been able to accomplish

 

Welcome back to MINI's! Hope you recover quickly! Car looks good!