While I've been thinking about getting a MC for a while now (heh, since they came out), I haven't actually had a chance to test ride one. Until later this week.

The *only* concern I have is the seats, and was wondering if someone could fill me in before I head over to the used mini dealership this week (finally!!). I tend to prefer the seats in vehicles like Chrysler minivans (92~94 voyager/caravan), or a classic VW bug for seating instead of, let's say, a Honda Civic (94~99). Do you sit back in the seats, or is it more of an upright seating experience?

Besides seats, I'm torn between waiting for 8 weeks, or buying a used MC with low mileage (7,500mi). Both are approx the same cost (it's a fair cost when you consider the extras the used one has), but the used one is loaded with a ton of stuff I don't want, like the nav, sport seats, and isn't the color I wanted. Sigh.

Thanks!

John

 

Well, you need to try both types of factory seats available in the MINI: Standard and Sport. The standards have a more "upright" seating posture and the side bolsters are not that pronounced making entry/exit easier. The standards are OK but not nearly as comfortable as the more countoured Sport seats.

In the MC, the "standard" seats are factory equipment while the Sports are optional for around $300 or as part of the MC "Sport Package".

In the MCS, the Sport seats are standard factory equipment.

Based on your description, you may be happier with the standard seats but then again you need to try both to determine which one feels better.

MINI does not offer "One piece" front seats as the ones you are describing. In fact, I don't think any automaker offers that type of seat anymore in the new car market.

 

John, unless you are getting that used MC for next to nothing, I highly recommend skiping it and ordering new from factory. Much of the MINI experience happends during the initial speccin stages and subsequent order/waiting. Buying used robs you automatically from that experience which is priceless IMO.


Ordering new allows you to configure the car to your exact liking and budget not someone elses. Besides, waiting times for new MC's should be around 4 to 6 weeks, not 8 weeks (Who told you that?).

If you are in California, have you consider ordering from out of state?

Buy new, you won't regret it.

 

Michigan, near Plymouth~Ann Arbor. I've already called

8 weeks? It's just a number I heard floating around. I always assume the longest possible wait! Keeps me grounded in reality : )

As far as trying the seats out, I will make sure to try both. I was hoping the seats would be a bit different from each other - it's not always apparent how different upgraded seats will be - so that I had a choice. Frankly, this (if I go through with it) will be my first new car. I just have to figure out how I am going to pay for it - lease, cash, or loan. I don't like the idea of a lease, from the financial resale aspect. I'd like to own my car after I've paid $$ for it.

Thanks,

John

 

I'm a big guy and I really prefer the non sport seats. I had the fortune to have a loaner car for 3 days several weeks ago with the standard seats. Far more cummfy.

So go sit in them for a hour each right in the showroom. Bring a book or CD. Yea an hour in the car can mean the right choice for 50,000+ miles.

 

I just got to test drive one -

MC
CVT
2003
Leather heated seats
Both seat and back were adjustable

I don't particularly care for leather, but the seat was nice - can someone tell me which seat I sat in?

Thanks!

John

 

John,

Give Classic MINI in Mentor, Ohio a call. You can order from them MSRP, and they give NAM members a discount on additional accessories that you may want to purchase or on any dealer options.

My first MINI had the standard seats. I much prefer the sport seats in the MCS. They hold you better through the twisties!

There's a great MINI enthusiast group right in your area, Michigan MINI Club: http://www.michiganmini.com/index.php

Be sure to register and chat with your local MINI nuts! :smile:

I agree with C4: since the MINI holds its value so well, you may as well spend a little more and spec out a MINI just the way you want it! It's so much fun to do, and we will be here to help you through the wait.


Clover

 

Mentor, OH - I think it's a bit too far for me. Shelby Twp is 47 miles from my house, whereas Mentor, OH is a few hundred miles!

Or will Bavarian Village (aka Motor City Mini) charge me money on top of what I pay (more than the OH dealership)? Also, how are taxes handled?

 

Um....a bunch of folks in your area buy at Mentor.....you need to visit the Michigan MINI site and ask them what they think about the dealerships near you.

Motor City isn't very well thought of....better do some research.


Clover

 

Aye! Will do...

 

My 03 MC has the standard seats.I like the look of the sport seats,but could not find a comfy postion on any of the test drives I took.I'm sure if you drive in the twisties alot the sport seat would be better,but I live on the bald prairie,and do 100+ miles a every day.I'm very happy with the standard seats,have found a sweet spot for the adjustment,all the way down,fairly upright back,and arms and legs slightly bent.I'm 5'-7" 160 lbs.

I was lucky,the car I wanted was on the lot,11 miles on the speedo,never been test driven,next day it was mine

 

One other thing about the seats...adjustable lumbar support is only available on full leather or leather/cloth seats. Don't know if that matters to you. :smile: