As an addition to my (somewhat) addictive use of bimmerforums.com I have just registered here at NAM. This is my first post here so Id like to say this looks like one good forum. Anyway, my mom has an '04 Range Rover, but my dad wants to drive it more (perfect--because the mom wants something smaller). So we're getting a MINI. Since my dad and I will also drive it every now and then, its going to be an S( ), but automatic( ) (mom LIVES on the cell phone). I just have one question before we order-- should my mom wait to order an '06? Are the changes going to be really that much better (and if so, which ones?)? As of right now it looks like shes getting Dark Silver w/ white roof and white stripes as well as union jack mirrors, grey w/ light grey leatherette, sport and cold weather packs (17" s-lites w/ all-season), rear fog light, chrono package, sport steering wheel w/ cruise and multifunction. Thanks a ton, this site has already helped me out a lot!!!

 

Hey, welcome to NAM. The MCSa is not a bad choice at all. Check out motoringfile.com for the changes.

 

Given your specs, the '06 shouldn't be any different. Only consideration would be whether you want an early '06 or a late '05.

 

I love my MCS automatic. The transmission shifts precisely and smoothly, very little lag.

I highly recommend getting the DSC - partially for your mom and partially so you can have the satisfaction of turning it off when you want to hop on the pedal off the line.

Get the rear fog lamps as well as the front ones. Provides a full set of toggle switches at the bottom of the center console. Sounds silly but the aesthetics are worth it. I really like the new factory armrest as well. Very comfortable.

I went for the anthracite headliner, anthracite dash / interior and I think it looks great.

Don't wait for the 06 unless you just have to. Get in line now - it's worth it!

 

Excellent . Isn't DSC standard in the sport package? If not well definately getting it because my dad wants the car to perform as well as possible in bad weather. And yes, there will be anthracite trim, but not headliner (and pics?). I guess no big changes for '06 than... looks good guys! So this will be the whole "stable".
Dad-2002 Porsche 996 cabriolet/ 996 Turbo or 360 modena (not sure which he's getting)
Mom- 2004 Range Rover/ 2005/06(?) Mini S auto
Me- 1995 BMW M3 (crazy NA engine mods)/ 1999 Range Rover (share with sister)
Sister- 2001 Mercedes C240/ 1999 Range Rover

P.S. This will be so cool- A BMW, Mini made my BMW, and Range Rover designed by BMW!! I'll include a pic of my car (im really a true bimmerhead--sorry guys.

 

Jeez M! Need a 55 yoa adopted brother?

 

Haha-- well I like your choice in cars! Plus you'd have to deal with with INCESSANT (seriously-- it's like 24 hours a day) car talk. By the way, I just saw a Range Rover Sport, wow it looked really great. Ill be taking applications for brotherhood next week, first come first serve bases hahaha

 

Hey M, welcome! Sounds like w/ your MCSA spec (very nice) you can jump in any time. Sounds like a car the whole family can enjoy!!

 

Welcome M Power.

Hey...that looks like Liquid Yellow.

 

Thank You very much. It's called Dakar Yellow but deep down i think it is liquid yellow ( I mean, you can special order Dakar on E46 M3's-- so they still make it). I'll have to test that out myself next time im at the dealer.

 

Sounds like a good reason to get a six speed manual.

"Hang up and Drive"

 

Hi M Power,

Welcome to NAM:smile: . It sounds like you guys already know what you're looking for in a Mini. Your future specs look like a great choice . I currently have a new 05 MCSA. The MCSA is a lot of fun to drive. Personally, I don't think it matters much between a later 05 and early 06. The major changes won't be until the 07 models.

 

Welcome. With your color combo, you might want to consider checker board mirror covers.

ripley.

 

Thanks again everyone.




yeah I thought about that, but my mom thought the car could use some color because everything else is a tint. She said it would work because the tail-lights and "S" turn signal are red the british flag would work (but blue?). I was never so sure about them as well... but its her car (or is it? mwahahaha )

 

I just looked at motoringfile.com, and they say with an '06 you can get a silver roof. That might be cool, but is it only for the uk?

 

And so starts the plan for world domination Dr Evil LOL

The flags will look great!

I think you'll be happy with the MCSa. I just can't get enough of the paddle shifters. The auto transmission loves to hold it's gear some times and being able to flick either of the paddles to shift higher is great. Really smooth too.

Get an 05 - you could be motoring sooner

 

Welcome!
Mine will be here in just a couple weeks.
I'm glad to hear such good reviews of the paddle shifting.

 

I am excited to try out the paddle shifters! and yes, the plan for world domination has begun...