Well, my dealer called and he's found an '05 MCS in LY with white roof and bonnet stripes. It has everything I want except the convenience package, which is a bit of a bummer, especially the universal garage remote which I'd really like to have and get rid of the ugly "clicker" on the visor. Also, it has Panther black leatherette interior which is not my first choice, or even my 4th or 5th for that matter.
What are the differences between the '05 and '06 models? Any major changes or additions?
Also, is it possible to add the universal garage remote?
If I don't do this, I'll go ahead with the '06 PW, not sure if I'll do black roof or not, but probably. DH likes the Cordoba beige leather interior and I really liked the feel of it, so I'm good with that.
Thanks,
Annette

 

You can get a Homelink (universal garage) rearview mirror - it comes with 3 programmable buttons. I put one on my car last month - love it!

 

Get the one you really want. The wait isn't that long.

 

If the interior is not even your 4th or 5th choice I recommend waiting. Especially because the description of the MINI you want is SO different. You seem to be looking for something in softer hues. There might be some detail differences between 2005 and 2006 but, according to NAMalukies, not as noteworthy as between 2004 and 2005. Having patience is very MINI.

 

For what it is worth, I wish I could go back and switch my real leather for the fake leatherette. The real leather that MINI uses is not incredibly high quality and puckers and cracks too quickly. The fake stuff looks great for a much longer time.

But it sure is fun to order your own MINI just how you want it. Too bad you can't get a LY 2006. . . .

 

Get what you want.
Don't take what you get.

Always. It has never failed. And you will be happy.

Jim

 

After-market leather is about the same price as Mini leather and its nicer. I intended to replace the leatherette with after-market leather but I've been very happy with the fake stuff. I would never spend the money. Sounds like 25% of JCW to me.

 

Order what you want. You'll be glad you did. The wait will definately be worth it.

 

If you want a LY MCS I'd grab that 2005, because LY is not offered on the MCS in 2006.