R50/53 S2000 versus Mini Cooper S
5th Gear
Joined: Feb 2003
Posts: 696
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From: Ohio
Originally Posted by MyPocketRocket
gimme the name and address of the person who said "chick car" I have something for him!
Anyone who'd make the chic car comment is both ignorant of the MINI's performance capabilities & has some REAL insecurity issues
S2k vs. MCS
If we were talking dedicated track car the S2k would be a good choice. But for street/everyday life its not really a contest - MCS all the way.
S2000 is a nice car. Unlike some I'm not fond of the look, but the engine, transmission, RWD & handling are all attractors. This said, the most obvious flaw in the S2k vs. many other cars is that you must wring the rpm snot out of it ...Day to day, this just gets tiring. On the track it’s a livable compromise.
I used to have a low displacement bike with similar torque curve... I enjoyed revving it to the moon & screaming around (for a while). But... when you get a chance to ride (or drive) a comparable handling machine - which also has a nice broad torque curve its more fun. You focus less on being in the meat, and more on the other aspects of the riding/driving.
The MCS is many things - I really can't think of another car available in North America that offers so much handling, safety an style for anywhere near the $. What puts the MCS over the top is its versatility... from competitive racer at the track or autoX on the weekend to hauling 4 REAL size adults around town. Great package!
If warranty & resale are big concerns there's the 210 hp JCWS. For a LOT less $ you can attain similar performance (without MINI's blessing).
If SERIOUS performance is what you're after there is the Twincharged (turbo+supercharger) option or the new & soon to be released twin-screw supercharged car. Either should net you 260+ WHP or better!
5th Gear
Joined: Feb 2005
Posts: 928
Likes: 0
From: Raleigh, NC
This is a tough choice since the cars aren't remotely in the same category - unless you create a new one called fun.
Both cars are torqueless wonders, begging to be driven hard. Neither is especially fast in a straight line, and aren't meant for it. As far as handling, both cars are at the top of their respective categories.
The mini is going to be more practical if that means anything to you. The image is different. I wouldn't call it a chick car, but some would. Some people miss out on many good cars (the miata comes to mind) because they're worried about what someone things. True, image is a big concern for many people so that should be a consideration if you're one of them.
As far as handling though... don't let anyone tell you that a Mini will be less-safe on the road than an S2000. Countless people have torn up those cars in the rain. Partly by accident, and partly because a lot of people just don't know how to handle a high-strung RWD car.
Personally, I've considered buying an S2000 on several occasions and each time have passed because I have chosen to spend my "play money" on other things, and need something a little more practical for a primary car.
Both cars are torqueless wonders, begging to be driven hard. Neither is especially fast in a straight line, and aren't meant for it. As far as handling, both cars are at the top of their respective categories.
The mini is going to be more practical if that means anything to you. The image is different. I wouldn't call it a chick car, but some would. Some people miss out on many good cars (the miata comes to mind) because they're worried about what someone things. True, image is a big concern for many people so that should be a consideration if you're one of them.
As far as handling though... don't let anyone tell you that a Mini will be less-safe on the road than an S2000. Countless people have torn up those cars in the rain. Partly by accident, and partly because a lot of people just don't know how to handle a high-strung RWD car.
Personally, I've considered buying an S2000 on several occasions and each time have passed because I have chosen to spend my "play money" on other things, and need something a little more practical for a primary car.
4th Gear
Joined: Apr 2003
Posts: 545
Likes: 0
From: California S.F. East Bay
In the SF Bay Area, Pleasanton MINI is selling at MSRP, but there's a several month wait for the MCS. I don't know what the wait status is for the MCSC. If you don't want to wait, check some of the East coast dealers mentioned previously. If you're patient, ask for Matt at East Bay.
I just took delivery of my second MCS from them, it was a little over $23K (list price, not out-the-door), with the sport pkg. on-board computer, xenons, multi-function steering wheel, rain-sensor wipers, auto-dimming mirror. For $500 more would have also had the LSD, if it had been available at the time it was manufactured. If I wanted a faster car I could add a pully and NOX, but I'm happy with it the way it is. I'd still be under $30K but, of course its not a convertable.
I think the extra $4K for the cabrio is a bit high, but if the market will bear it...
Find somewhere that will let you take a MINI for an somewhat extended test drive (say an hour or two), on a variety of roads. Or, find someone with a MINI that's broken in, who will let you drive it for a while. Then decide. I'm sure you'll have fun either way.
I just took delivery of my second MCS from them, it was a little over $23K (list price, not out-the-door), with the sport pkg. on-board computer, xenons, multi-function steering wheel, rain-sensor wipers, auto-dimming mirror. For $500 more would have also had the LSD, if it had been available at the time it was manufactured. If I wanted a faster car I could add a pully and NOX, but I'm happy with it the way it is. I'd still be under $30K but, of course its not a convertable.
I think the extra $4K for the cabrio is a bit high, but if the market will bear it...
Find somewhere that will let you take a MINI for an somewhat extended test drive (say an hour or two), on a variety of roads. Or, find someone with a MINI that's broken in, who will let you drive it for a while. Then decide. I'm sure you'll have fun either way.
6th Gear
Joined: Dec 2004
Posts: 2,047
Likes: 0
From: NJerz
Originally Posted by Dog_Man
In fact I'm starting to think I might like it better...I know its probably nuts but its (MCS) a very fun car.
Mark,
Which car will make you most proud to own? You've already owned an s2000, so why not try something new? The only reason would be if you were absolutely enamored with your old car, and since you are considering an MCS, it doesn't seem that you are.
I looked at both, but when all was said and done, my pocket is now about 10k heavier, and my smile couldn't be any bigger. Hi-C style.
mb
Buy out of state @ Classic
S2000 vs MCSC ? That's easy. I don't fit in an S2000; and last time I checked, there wasn't a lot of room in an S2000 other than for 2 (small) persons and an equal amount of luggage.
I've just ordered a new Mini Cooper S Cabrio from Julie @ Classic MINI, and we're putting together a Group Ship. Check out the details here on NAM
https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...ad.php?t=37610
She has some Cabriolet S's still available for March Build/April Delivery, so don't hesitate. And you buy at MSRP. Forget the $3,000 markup BS from CA dealers.
Right now we have 4 MINIs on the truck ! Join us.
Charlie
I've just ordered a new Mini Cooper S Cabrio from Julie @ Classic MINI, and we're putting together a Group Ship. Check out the details here on NAM
https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...ad.php?t=37610
She has some Cabriolet S's still available for March Build/April Delivery, so don't hesitate. And you buy at MSRP. Forget the $3,000 markup BS from CA dealers.
Right now we have 4 MINIs on the truck ! Join us.
Charlie
6th Gear
Joined: Nov 2004
Posts: 1,203
Likes: 21
From: Delta BC, Canada
This really happened about an hour ago.
I just went for a drive on my lunch break (I have a MINI Cooper S), as I was to meet a friend for lunch. On my way there, some guy in an S2000 pulls up behind me and tailgates me for a mile or so through heavy traffic. When I pull into the parking lot, he revs his engine and rips away. Sounds to me like the performance potential of our MINIs is picking up a reputation.
A few of my friends have bought Mazda RX-8's recently and after sitting in my car, they wished they had bought a MINI instead. They make comments about my car handling like a goKart.
Forget about what other people think about what your car looks like. That's so subjective. Take a MINI Cooper S (Convertible) out for a testdrive. Decide for yourself. I had no intention of buying a front-wheel drive car until I drove a MINI Cooper. Also, if practical is important, then get the Cooper. I can bring along my golf clubs, or hockey gear, guitar amp and guitar etc without resorting to putting things in the front seat.
Oh...regarding the testdrive. I emailed MINI.ca and a dealer arranged to bring a car to me (not me having to go to the dealership) at my convenience to do a testdrive along the routes if my choosing. I wouldn't get that kind of service from a Honda dealer.
I think the S2000 is a great car. But I found the MINI Cooper to suit my needs more.
One caviat about the convertible. When the roof is up, you really have to rely on the PDC as rear visibility is almost non-existant.
I just went for a drive on my lunch break (I have a MINI Cooper S), as I was to meet a friend for lunch. On my way there, some guy in an S2000 pulls up behind me and tailgates me for a mile or so through heavy traffic. When I pull into the parking lot, he revs his engine and rips away. Sounds to me like the performance potential of our MINIs is picking up a reputation.
A few of my friends have bought Mazda RX-8's recently and after sitting in my car, they wished they had bought a MINI instead. They make comments about my car handling like a goKart.
Forget about what other people think about what your car looks like. That's so subjective. Take a MINI Cooper S (Convertible) out for a testdrive. Decide for yourself. I had no intention of buying a front-wheel drive car until I drove a MINI Cooper. Also, if practical is important, then get the Cooper. I can bring along my golf clubs, or hockey gear, guitar amp and guitar etc without resorting to putting things in the front seat.
Oh...regarding the testdrive. I emailed MINI.ca and a dealer arranged to bring a car to me (not me having to go to the dealership) at my convenience to do a testdrive along the routes if my choosing. I wouldn't get that kind of service from a Honda dealer.
I think the S2000 is a great car. But I found the MINI Cooper to suit my needs more.
One caviat about the convertible. When the roof is up, you really have to rely on the PDC as rear visibility is almost non-existant.
no one can convince you of the decision, but since you chose a place of mini lovers... ill give my 2 cents
i love the S2000, love the engine, probably one of the finest handling cars on the planet... but like others have said... the car has no torque.. i drove a celica GTS before the mini, sure it's fun when vvti kicks in but im not going to drive in the 7 grand region everyday... anything below the 7 grand region in the celica i can only describe as boring, and simply underpowered... i have not driven a s2000, but if vtec is anything like vvti, then i'd stick with my mini..
now.. if i got the money to do a ultimate racing turbo.. that's a different story
test drive both, and arrive at your own conclusion... no one can convince u otherwise... want to stick with a s2000, go ahead... that's your decision.. all ill say is that the mini has it's own quirks you'd never find in a S2000
i love the S2000, love the engine, probably one of the finest handling cars on the planet... but like others have said... the car has no torque.. i drove a celica GTS before the mini, sure it's fun when vvti kicks in but im not going to drive in the 7 grand region everyday... anything below the 7 grand region in the celica i can only describe as boring, and simply underpowered... i have not driven a s2000, but if vtec is anything like vvti, then i'd stick with my mini..
now.. if i got the money to do a ultimate racing turbo.. that's a different story
test drive both, and arrive at your own conclusion... no one can convince u otherwise... want to stick with a s2000, go ahead... that's your decision.. all ill say is that the mini has it's own quirks you'd never find in a S2000
3rd Gear
Joined: Mar 2004
Posts: 255
Likes: 0
From: Palatine, Illinois
As somebody who was very close to getting an S2000, let me chime in. 
I loved the Honda. Loved getting it up around the red line and keeping it there. But, that was a demo on a test drive. Don't think I'd want to keep it there all day long. And boy did it handle. But, I'm not telling you anything new, am I?
However, I'm back standing in line waiting to order an MCS. More room, more car for the buck, theoretically better gas mileage, etc.
So, may I suggest my solution?
For some reason, based on what you've written, it seems like you're trying to do too much with one car. (Convertible owners, please do not flame me here) Do you have room to park 2 cars? If so, and this is a variation on what I'm going to do, buy a good used Miata -- you can get them for about $4,500 now. That will be your rear wheel drive convertible.
Then, get an '05 MCS for $23,150. You're only up to $27,650 so far. For an additinal $4,000 to $5,000 in modifications you have 1 very fast MINI and you've spent less than $33,000. And you have 2 cars.
Me? I'm going to keep my '93 Miata and get an '05 MCS as soon as the lease on my Saab is up in 12 weeks.
Hunter
I loved the Honda. Loved getting it up around the red line and keeping it there. But, that was a demo on a test drive. Don't think I'd want to keep it there all day long. And boy did it handle. But, I'm not telling you anything new, am I?
However, I'm back standing in line waiting to order an MCS. More room, more car for the buck, theoretically better gas mileage, etc.
So, may I suggest my solution?
For some reason, based on what you've written, it seems like you're trying to do too much with one car. (Convertible owners, please do not flame me here) Do you have room to park 2 cars? If so, and this is a variation on what I'm going to do, buy a good used Miata -- you can get them for about $4,500 now. That will be your rear wheel drive convertible.Then, get an '05 MCS for $23,150. You're only up to $27,650 so far. For an additinal $4,000 to $5,000 in modifications you have 1 very fast MINI and you've spent less than $33,000. And you have 2 cars.
Me? I'm going to keep my '93 Miata and get an '05 MCS as soon as the lease on my Saab is up in 12 weeks.
Hunter
6th Gear
Joined: Dec 2004
Posts: 3,802
Likes: 0
From: SF Bay Area
Don't forget a key issue - the S2k doesnt have seat heaters!* I mean a convertible without seat heaters, what were they thinking! There's nothing like going topless on a chilly starlite night/foggy morning with the seat heaters keeping you toasty.
As for the rest of the comparison, well I think everyone has that covered by now. As I always say, drive it and see how you feel.
Oh, just FYI - I was just at Southbay Mini in Los Angeles and they had a good selection of cars, including 'verts, on the lot, quite a large number really. Like many dealers they glom on stuff like Lojack or what not to cars in stock to bump up the profit but I'll bet they can be negotiated down to move a car. Otherwise they sell at MSRP if you order it (which is what I did , should be in soon too :D). I didnt ask about the waiting time, it was short when I ordered, not sure now but worth a call.
Best of luck, let us know what you decide.
PS: Isn't it awful how you have to get a tan interior now if you want a white S2k? The white with red was sharp
*Unless they added that option recently, haven't checked
As for the rest of the comparison, well I think everyone has that covered by now. As I always say, drive it and see how you feel.
Oh, just FYI - I was just at Southbay Mini in Los Angeles and they had a good selection of cars, including 'verts, on the lot, quite a large number really. Like many dealers they glom on stuff like Lojack or what not to cars in stock to bump up the profit but I'll bet they can be negotiated down to move a car. Otherwise they sell at MSRP if you order it (which is what I did , should be in soon too :D). I didnt ask about the waiting time, it was short when I ordered, not sure now but worth a call.
Best of luck, let us know what you decide.
PS: Isn't it awful how you have to get a tan interior now if you want a white S2k? The white with red was sharp
*Unless they added that option recently, haven't checked
Thread Starter
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1st Gear
Joined: Feb 2005
Posts: 33
Likes: 0
Wow.. what a great set of responses!
First off,
Thank you all for taking the time to write such well written and well thought out postings. I believe I am now completely sold on the Cooper S with all that has been said.
I think one of the most convincing arguments someone made was "You have already had a S2000 why not try something else?"
That is the winning argument as far as I am concerned.
Clearly I am one of those who got in over his head in the rain covered road. I have to say my experience spooked me and frankly I am not sure I would have the confidence in my skills with the S2000 in those conditions again. I am sure I can spin any car--but my god it was easy to do on that S2000. A friend of mine looked at the tires on my S2000 and said "Oh.. you have those sticky performance tires--no wonder..". When I drove the '05 S2000 we looked at the stock tires and Honda has changed them to a much heavier tread all-weather type of tire. I suspect they did this with reason. I asked the dealer if the tires on the car were stock and he assured me they were.
Anyway--I configured my car and I plan on going to Long Beach BMW and the other dealership that was mentioned in this thread in hopes that I can find a car close enough to what I want.
Sadly when I configured my car on the web site I ended up around 33k. Now perhaps I got stuff I did not need. I think I will start another thread to get feedback on what I have picked. Perhaps I can make smarter choices and save some money. I admit I want a car with a lot of "features" so certain things will be hard to give up--like the heated seats and the Navigation system. In fact, the Nav system is really the deal maker for me .
I really appreciate the time and effort. I am hoping I hear from the adjuster tomorrow--I want to get my Cooper S!
Thanks all
-mark=
Thank you all for taking the time to write such well written and well thought out postings. I believe I am now completely sold on the Cooper S with all that has been said.
I think one of the most convincing arguments someone made was "You have already had a S2000 why not try something else?"
That is the winning argument as far as I am concerned.
Clearly I am one of those who got in over his head in the rain covered road. I have to say my experience spooked me and frankly I am not sure I would have the confidence in my skills with the S2000 in those conditions again. I am sure I can spin any car--but my god it was easy to do on that S2000. A friend of mine looked at the tires on my S2000 and said "Oh.. you have those sticky performance tires--no wonder..". When I drove the '05 S2000 we looked at the stock tires and Honda has changed them to a much heavier tread all-weather type of tire. I suspect they did this with reason. I asked the dealer if the tires on the car were stock and he assured me they were.
Anyway--I configured my car and I plan on going to Long Beach BMW and the other dealership that was mentioned in this thread in hopes that I can find a car close enough to what I want.
Sadly when I configured my car on the web site I ended up around 33k. Now perhaps I got stuff I did not need. I think I will start another thread to get feedback on what I have picked. Perhaps I can make smarter choices and save some money. I admit I want a car with a lot of "features" so certain things will be hard to give up--like the heated seats and the Navigation system. In fact, the Nav system is really the deal maker for me .
I really appreciate the time and effort. I am hoping I hear from the adjuster tomorrow--I want to get my Cooper S!
Thanks all
-mark=
6th Gear
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 1,268
Likes: 0
From: Left Coast
Originally Posted by Hunter
Do you have room to park 2 cars? If so, and this is a variation on what I'm going to do, buy a good used Miata -- you can get them for about $4,500 now. That will be your rear wheel drive convertible.
Then, get an '05 MCS for $23,150. You're only up to $27,650 so far. For an additinal $4,000 to $5,000 in modifications you have 1 very fast MINI and you've spent less than $33,000. And you have 2 cars.
Hunter
6th Gear
Joined: Dec 2004
Posts: 3,802
Likes: 0
From: SF Bay Area
Originally Posted by MarkM
Sadly when I configured my car on the web site I ended up around 33k. Now perhaps I got stuff I did not need.
.) Just my 02, do what you can afford and feel most comfortable with of course.Like you I'm a fan of built in nav, have used it tons in other cars
Good luck with the negotiating, as I said Southbay had a bunch of 'verts and I hear lots of dealers are sitting on them (as one dealer said the allocation is just too big for them, they get more requests for the tin top MCSs in general).
By the way, you should know about the January production changes just in case there is something you feel is worth waiting for - reading through motoringfile.com should help. On the other hand, if there is nothing you find important it should be a good negotiating tool to use with the dealer re: in stock pre Jan prod cars.
Cheers
PS: Not sure how many dealer configured cars have the GPS option,you may want to call around to see what dealers have on hand beforehand.
5th Gear
Joined: Feb 2003
Posts: 696
Likes: 0
From: Ohio
Originally Posted by MarkM
First off,
Clearly I am one of those who got in over his head in the rain covered road. I have to say my experience spooked me and frankly I am not sure I would have the confidence in my skills with the S2000 in those conditions again. I am sure I can spin any car--but my god it was easy to do on that S2000.
-mark=
Clearly I am one of those who got in over his head in the rain covered road. I have to say my experience spooked me and frankly I am not sure I would have the confidence in my skills with the S2000 in those conditions again. I am sure I can spin any car--but my god it was easy to do on that S2000.
-mark=
You'll find it quite a bit harder to induce overseer in the MCS - esp in stock trim. More likely you'll have to get used to the MCS understeering its way through corners. Go out & get a stiffer swaybar - right from the start. ...Coming from the S2k you'll want it for handling. It'll make the car rotate more, but not like the S2k.
This isn't to say you can't spin the MCS. You can. ...And the car is a LOT shorter. ...So when the back end does come around there's not much time to correct (if you're driving over your head).
Throttle-off oversteer will be the new thing to learn. Once you've got it mastered you'll have SO much fun letting off in turns and having the back end come out
2nd Gear
Joined: Aug 2003
Posts: 105
Likes: 0
From: Southern Californin
2 issues here- car and cost. As far as cost, DON'T PAY THESE CALIFORNIA PIGS over MSRP. It's just greed. Doesn't make the car one bit better. I second Chief Charlie, call Julie Saxa @ Classic, tell her what you want and split the closed carrier with Charlie. I did that with him and about 8 other Californians in November 2003 for my MCS. It went without a hitch. Besides, I had a great break-in drive down Hiway 1 from Norcal( where the cars arrived from OH) to SoCal. I'd do it again without hesitation.
Now the cars - apples and gorillas. Except that they're both not made in the USA they couldn't be more different. I've been on the track with S2000s and I really appreciate their performance. They are phenomenal track cars. But, can they carry 3 large boxes filled with books and a hand truck to tote them to the post office? That's what I had to do today. And the MINI still felt great in the rain, even with over a hundred pounds of books in the back. If the Honda could do that, I'd probably be on the S2000 forum instead of NAM.
Now the cars - apples and gorillas. Except that they're both not made in the USA they couldn't be more different. I've been on the track with S2000s and I really appreciate their performance. They are phenomenal track cars. But, can they carry 3 large boxes filled with books and a hand truck to tote them to the post office? That's what I had to do today. And the MINI still felt great in the rain, even with over a hundred pounds of books in the back. If the Honda could do that, I'd probably be on the S2000 forum instead of NAM.
7th Gear Gal
Joined: Jul 2002
Posts: 36,087
Likes: 3
From: Weeblegabber West (aka WLA)
:smile: Both great cars....but....my MCS, Wanda, has taken me on two six-week cross-country roadtrips the past two years, and I'll be taking off mid-April for roadtrip #3. I have been able to pack enough things to live out of my MINI for SIX WEEKS!!! And she rides so well! I like the S2K, but that need for the high-revving I found a bit disconcerting. My MCS is peppy throughout the powerband, beginning at 1250 rpm.
So...what did you expect a bunch of MINIacs to tell ya?
Clover
So...what did you expect a bunch of MINIacs to tell ya?
Clover
Neutral
Joined: Feb 2005
Posts: 5
Likes: 0
Hi Mark,
We have the navigation system in our 2005 Liquid Yellow Mini Cooper "S" and love it. Love it, love it. It's the best thing since sliced bread. I wouldn't settle for less even if you have to speical order your mini from Oxford England like we did. The 7 week wait was a big frustration but the wait for our Mini with all of our options was well worth it. The Mini has nearly every option available at slightly over $30,000.
Our BMW Z3 was very nice, the Boxster was a head turner but the Mini is just plain heavenly.
Sincerely,
Randy
We have the navigation system in our 2005 Liquid Yellow Mini Cooper "S" and love it. Love it, love it. It's the best thing since sliced bread. I wouldn't settle for less even if you have to speical order your mini from Oxford England like we did. The 7 week wait was a big frustration but the wait for our Mini with all of our options was well worth it. The Mini has nearly every option available at slightly over $30,000.
Our BMW Z3 was very nice, the Boxster was a head turner but the Mini is just plain heavenly.
Sincerely,
Randy
Originally Posted by MarkM
Guys (and Gals),
This last Saturday I was on CA-154 going out to San Jose (heading to the 101) and hit some water after rounding a turn in a heavy downpour. I hydroplaned and foolishly used my brakes instead of doing the right thing of driving through it and counter steering. In any case me and my beautiful 2003 S2000 spun out and hit another car.
Everyone is ok. My S2000 is toast. Though I wait for GEICO to figure out it is toast.
So.. I have the choice of getting another S2000 (hopefully with tires that are better for the rain) or trying something new.
I went to the local Mini Dealer (Bob Smith BMW) and I took a test drive of a Mini Cooper S convertable. It is a very cool and fun car to drive though I am not sure (it was rainy) if it has as good a traction and feel as the S2000.
I am in a bit of a quandry. I tell my friends that I am thinking about replacing my S2000 with a Mini and some give the "chick car" argument. Others say that I will miss the power and sticking ability of the S2000 and will get myself in trouble with the Mini. My girlfriend loves the idea. My best car buddy admits he likes the Mini too.
I guess the question is---what do you think? I know you're biased since you bought a Mini. Please know that I am truly interested in the Mini and not trying to start a my car is better than your car disagreement.
I have spent the time to configure my Mini on the web site.
A comment about Bob Smith BMW...
I was dismayed to find out that Bob Smith BMW is going to try to charge me destination charges + $3,000 mark up AND they don't have the car I want either. I really want the Navigation system--and they only have that on a Cooper not an S model. I could order my car from anywhere. I was told that if I wanted the service that comes with the car I would have to buy it from them.
Anyway greedy dealer aside--it is a fun car to drive. Will it get me into trouble by expecting it to perfom as well as my Honda S2000?
-mark=
This last Saturday I was on CA-154 going out to San Jose (heading to the 101) and hit some water after rounding a turn in a heavy downpour. I hydroplaned and foolishly used my brakes instead of doing the right thing of driving through it and counter steering. In any case me and my beautiful 2003 S2000 spun out and hit another car.
Everyone is ok. My S2000 is toast. Though I wait for GEICO to figure out it is toast.
So.. I have the choice of getting another S2000 (hopefully with tires that are better for the rain) or trying something new.
I went to the local Mini Dealer (Bob Smith BMW) and I took a test drive of a Mini Cooper S convertable. It is a very cool and fun car to drive though I am not sure (it was rainy) if it has as good a traction and feel as the S2000.
I am in a bit of a quandry. I tell my friends that I am thinking about replacing my S2000 with a Mini and some give the "chick car" argument. Others say that I will miss the power and sticking ability of the S2000 and will get myself in trouble with the Mini. My girlfriend loves the idea. My best car buddy admits he likes the Mini too.
I guess the question is---what do you think? I know you're biased since you bought a Mini. Please know that I am truly interested in the Mini and not trying to start a my car is better than your car disagreement.
I have spent the time to configure my Mini on the web site.
A comment about Bob Smith BMW...
I was dismayed to find out that Bob Smith BMW is going to try to charge me destination charges + $3,000 mark up AND they don't have the car I want either. I really want the Navigation system--and they only have that on a Cooper not an S model. I could order my car from anywhere. I was told that if I wanted the service that comes with the car I would have to buy it from them.
Anyway greedy dealer aside--it is a fun car to drive. Will it get me into trouble by expecting it to perfom as well as my Honda S2000?
-mark=
3rd Gear
Joined: Oct 2004
Posts: 216
Likes: 1
From: S.F. Bay Area
Originally Posted by Dog_Man
Loki - Didn't you go from S2000 - M3 SMG and now to MCS?
I actually just sold the '03 MCS yesterday because the '05 replacement is docking this week.
Glad to see some S2kiers on the site!
Coordinator :: Low Country MINIs
iTrader: (3)
Joined: Apr 2004
Posts: 1,874
Likes: 0
From: charleston, SC
take solace in the fact that an MCS went through Road & Track's slalom course faster than the following cars:
- VW R32
- Imprezza WRX STi
- All current Porsche 911s (except Carrera S)
- Lancer Evo
- All current Mercedes (except M-F1)
- All current Maseratis
- All current Lamborginis
- All current Volvos
- All current Toyotas
- All current Saabs
- All current Nissans
- All current Mazdas
- All current Hondas
- All current Jaguars
- All current Lexuses
- All current Infinitys
- All current Acuras
- All current Cadillacs
- All current Fords (ties the GT40)
- Ferrari 360 Spider
- All current Dodges, including Neon SRT-4 and Dodge Viper
- All current Corvettes
- All current BMWs , including M3 and M5 (except Z4 3.0i SMG)
- All current Audis
- All current Aston Martins
TELL YOUR FRIENDS THIS, AND ALSO KEEP THIS IN MY MIND!
LILJACK AND MATCHBOX
- VW R32
- Imprezza WRX STi
- All current Porsche 911s (except Carrera S)
- Lancer Evo
- All current Mercedes (except M-F1)
- All current Maseratis
- All current Lamborginis
- All current Volvos
- All current Toyotas
- All current Saabs
- All current Nissans
- All current Mazdas
- All current Hondas
- All current Jaguars
- All current Lexuses
- All current Infinitys
- All current Acuras
- All current Cadillacs
- All current Fords (ties the GT40)
- Ferrari 360 Spider
- All current Dodges, including Neon SRT-4 and Dodge Viper
- All current Corvettes
- All current BMWs , including M3 and M5 (except Z4 3.0i SMG)
- All current Audis
- All current Aston Martins
TELL YOUR FRIENDS THIS, AND ALSO KEEP THIS IN MY MIND!
LILJACK AND MATCHBOX
2nd Gear
Joined: Dec 2004
Posts: 70
Likes: 0
From: Charlotte, NC
Nice!
The Mini does rock through the slalom course! Anyway I love the S2000 and for fun I went and drove a used one at a dealer a few months back. It was a little faster in a straight line and very fun. Quite loud with exaust and not much insulation from top. It may have had some aftermarket exaust on it though. For the same price, I also like looking at older Boxsters and 90-93 porsche 911s. I would love one of those but it would be quite a bit to maintain.
One of the drawbacks with the S2000 is no Nav. Maybe they will come out with it in the 2006 models? While the Mini nav is not the best nav out there it is quite good and DVD based. Surprisingly Audi's are just now coming out with a DVD based system in their new models. I had a 01 TT that had the old CD based system which was terrible. The Lexus/Toyota nav is great but it locks out a lot of features once you start moving.
You could just go for one of the regular MCS with the giant sunroof instead of the convertible and save some money. Not to mention, the regular MCS looks less like a chick car than the convertilbe in my opinion. You could get a regular MCS with faster JCW and LSD for less than any S2k would cost.
<puttin on flame suit>
Also you could go for a non "chick" color like a darker blue, black, or silver.
<taking off flame suit>
I saw an all black MCS convertible with tan leather that looked awesome.
Anyway good luck with your purchase. You cant lose with either the S2k or MCS or MCSc!
One of the drawbacks with the S2000 is no Nav. Maybe they will come out with it in the 2006 models? While the Mini nav is not the best nav out there it is quite good and DVD based. Surprisingly Audi's are just now coming out with a DVD based system in their new models. I had a 01 TT that had the old CD based system which was terrible. The Lexus/Toyota nav is great but it locks out a lot of features once you start moving.
You could just go for one of the regular MCS with the giant sunroof instead of the convertible and save some money. Not to mention, the regular MCS looks less like a chick car than the convertilbe in my opinion. You could get a regular MCS with faster JCW and LSD for less than any S2k would cost.
<puttin on flame suit>
Also you could go for a non "chick" color like a darker blue, black, or silver.
<taking off flame suit>
I saw an all black MCS convertible with tan leather that looked awesome.
Anyway good luck with your purchase. You cant lose with either the S2k or MCS or MCSc!
Originally Posted by littlehandegan
take solace in the fact that an MCS went through Road & Track's slalom course faster than the following cars:
- VW R32
- Imprezza WRX STi
- All current Porsche 911s (except Carrera S)
- Lancer Evo
- All current Mercedes (except M-F1)
- All current Maseratis
- All current Lamborginis
- All current Volvos
- All current Toyotas
- All current Saabs
- All current Nissans
- All current Mazdas
- All current Hondas
- All current Jaguars
- All current Lexuses
- All current Infinitys
- All current Acuras
- All current Cadillacs
- All current Fords (ties the GT40)
- Ferrari 360 Spider
- All current Dodges, including Neon SRT-4 and Dodge Viper
- All current Corvettes
- All current BMWs , including M3 and M5 (except Z4 3.0i SMG)
- All current Audis
- All current Aston Martins
TELL YOUR FRIENDS THIS, AND ALSO KEEP THIS IN MY MIND!
LILJACK AND MATCHBOX
- VW R32
- Imprezza WRX STi
- All current Porsche 911s (except Carrera S)
- Lancer Evo
- All current Mercedes (except M-F1)
- All current Maseratis
- All current Lamborginis
- All current Volvos
- All current Toyotas
- All current Saabs
- All current Nissans
- All current Mazdas
- All current Hondas
- All current Jaguars
- All current Lexuses
- All current Infinitys
- All current Acuras
- All current Cadillacs
- All current Fords (ties the GT40)
- Ferrari 360 Spider
- All current Dodges, including Neon SRT-4 and Dodge Viper
- All current Corvettes
- All current BMWs , including M3 and M5 (except Z4 3.0i SMG)
- All current Audis
- All current Aston Martins
TELL YOUR FRIENDS THIS, AND ALSO KEEP THIS IN MY MIND!
LILJACK AND MATCHBOX
2nd Gear
Joined: Mar 2005
Posts: 113
Likes: 0
I'm another S2000 guy. I have a 2002 Suzuka Blue S2K with SSR Comps. Love the car, it's brilliant on the track and works just fine as a day to day commuter. I've had cars with 300+ Ft/lbs of torque, and I can say that all the 'no torque' stuff concerning the S2000 is primarily spouted by people who haven't experienced one as a daily driver. You can get around town just fine, no excessive downshifting or anything of that nature. Regardless, the S2K and the MCS are so radically different as someone said before the only category in which they both qualify is the 'Fun' category. I love my S2K, but with all the highway miles i've had to drive in it over the last year and a half the bottom line is that i've got a 2005 MCS on order right now. :smile:
4th Gear
Joined: Mar 2005
Posts: 397
Likes: 0
From: SF Bay Area
Clearly I am one of those who got in over his head in the rain covered road. I have to say my experience spooked me and frankly I am not sure I would have the confidence in my skills with the S2000 in those conditions again. I am sure I can spin any car--but my god it was
easy to do on that S2000. A friend of mine looked at the tires on my S2000 and said "Oh.. you have those sticky performance tires--no wonder.."
Anyway--I configured my car and I plan on going to Long Beach BMW and
I admit I want a car with a lot of "features" so certain things will be hard to give up--like the heated seats and the Navigation system. In fact, the Nav system is really the deal maker for me .
To save some more money, delete every single dealer installed accessory from your configuration. These are easily installed at a later date after receiving your Mini, and you can probably buy the same OEM accessory for cheaper elsewhere. Buy it out of state and save on taxes. State registration fees are based on your total purchase price, so you can save on those fees by eliminating the accessories. The accessory price does not include installation, which will cost you an arm and a leg at the dealer. Install it yourself or find anyone else who will be cheaper than the dealer. Items that are not easily installed after the fact, such as LSD - get those from the factory.
Hope this helps.
matt ma
3rd Gear
Joined: Oct 2004
Posts: 216
Likes: 1
From: S.F. Bay Area
Originally Posted by matma92ser
Are you going for the convertible? If not, then heated seats won't really be necessary in California.
(p.s. I believe he already bought a MCS)
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