If it's what u want, thn go for it. Shame about the lack of LSD though...it's great

chers

 

stock stereo is good enough, just think of it this way. When they start making DIN form factor CarPCs affordable, you can replace it with one of those

 

Astro Black/Silver sounds gorgeous
But i don't have ANY of those other options... and i couldn't be happier.
I have the stock stereo, and i like to play my music loud and hard... and it's held up wonderfully so far. I've never had the HK, so i'm sure i'd want if i tried it out... much like an S
LSD is much the same. Don't have it, if i tried it out, i may want it... but the MINI handles beautifully even without.
Plenty of arm rests out there from what i've seen... but who needs an armrest when you should be shifting!

 

So I'm wondering, what is it about the Checkmate that you really want? Perhaps knowing that would change how I see it, but based on the above info I think I'd personally order or find a car with the options I wanted and not pay for the ones I don't. Things like the rear fog, LSD, anthracite headliner are not easy to change and can be pricy to do so and if its what you want its worth it. We had the regular headliner before and really prefer the black; it doesnt show dirt (which you will get if you drive with windows or roof open) and we love the way it looks - purely subjective I know. Same with the fog, not really necessary but something we use and like having. The LSD, above all is not something you can change after the fact easily. The armrest can be added so that's no worry, and you can upgrade the stereo if you want (although, again, it seems that upgrading it and the speakers would cost more not to mention mess with the warranty). I personally would not want to pay for chrome I didn't want and see if they could remove it/throw it in - that said the interior chromline looks really great with the anthracite or dark dash/interior.

So, if there is something really key about the CM pkg that cannot be substituted the above makes no difference, but if it were me I'd really weigh it out and probably opt for a non CM with the options as I want it - especially knowing howmuch we do enjoy and use the options we ordered.

 

We have an 03 MCS and a 05 MCS, did not have the anthracite headliner in either and it is not a problem. Both have the standard audio and it is a good system. The 05 has the LSD and would not get another without. Armrest was not avaiable from factory on the 05 or would have gotten it.

We are picking up MCS no. 3 in a week or so to replace the 03 MCS and it is a Checkmate with Premium, Cold weather, LSD, rear fog, armrest and the Harmon Kardon (the standard system would have been ok with me).

 

You could probably get the LSD installed for somewhat less at the first clutch change, but it's still going to be pricey. Still, if you got the car and found you absolutely couldn't live without it, there's that alternative.

The standard stereo is fine by me, but I'm an old man, not a big glass-flexin' bass kind of guy.

Personally I really really like the chrome interior, and I am not a chrome guy at all.

These kind of decisions are tough. One day from what you wanted, that's harsh. But I would think if the big stuff was right, don't sweat the little stuff.

 

What we loved about the Checkmate was that interior I prefer leather/cloth to just leather as my @ss slides about too much (Which is even MORE of an issue when you realize just how WIDE it is ) I also like the Space Blue trim... although the Seven trim would be nice too (without those rings).

I've looked it over a bit (still going over it with the Frau) and in order to get a non-Checkmate MCS that I'd like, it'll wind up costing more The CM (For us) was the perfect "Basis" for us to spec out. Without the package, we're just all confused

If equipped with an LSD, I fully intend to make use of it... at EVERY opportunity

I'm babbling (If I stick around, you'll get used to it ) but basically the problem I'm having is that we specced out the CM MCS that was perfect for us, then when it came time to order, Mini jacked up our plans and now I don't know where to compromise :impatient

Thanks for putting up with this nonsense
Advice/comments still appreciated (Think I use too many smilies??)

 

without getting flamed from here to next week, could you order the MINI you want and have *checkmate inspired* vinyl cut for the side panels, etc?

i know that the checkmate package inculdes some other goodies...but it's a thought. (You could put some SS or Type-R badges on too!

just an option....

 

Like this?

https://sslrelay.com/www.minipirate....dex.shopscript

 

I have to say I couldn't live without HK. It's pretty darn good for what you get. However you can always go aftermarket. Problem is, for 500 bucks there isn't much you can do aftermarket whise.

New speakers, amp and deck are going to cost like 750 min, just for something good.

I like diamond audios stuff they seem to have things made quite well. As for a deck I would go with an eclipse. Good luck.

Ohh yah, I cannot live without an LSD.

 

yup..exactly like that....

 

Well, I just spent about 30 minutes on the phone with Mini Customer Service and have FINALLY figured out what was going on. It seems that BMW / Mini Military Sales here in Germany are their own separate entity as far as BMW AG and BMW NA are concerned, which means that they're pretty much free to change, delete, etc any and all options, packages or accesories as they see fit. No warning or consideration for their customers required. The discontinuation of the Checkmate affects Military Sales Customers ONLY and the rest of the world is apparently free to partake and enjoy said Checkmate-edness

As for the CM MCS that is up for order tomorrow, I think I've decided that if I ordered that one, it'd be more "Sacrifice" than compromise and if I'm gonna spend $24k+ it'll be on something that I'm happy with from day one

Thanks again for all of y'alls advice

Oh yeah, and if the timing of my replies seems off, it's because I'm still being moderated and need an admin to approve each post (Sorry Admins )

 

Actually, I would have had those "Checkers" taken off

 

OK, since I just LOVE to reply to myself what do y'all think of this alternative that we just came up with...

Astro Black MCS w/ Silver Roof, Mirrors and Stripe
Cold Pack
Premium Pack
Sport w/S-"lites"
LSD
Rear Fog (A Must here in Germany)
Lapis Blue Leather (Found 3 pics through search, if anyone else has some... comments please)
Anthracite Trim AND Headliner
Arm Rest
Harmon Kardon

So... THAT'S a years pay gone, (or close enough) think it'll do instead of the Checkmate ?

 

Well, as I have the Lapis interior with Anthracite dash and headliner and love it I am biased The contrast of the dark overtones and royal blue is great, and the balance of blue/black and seaming on the back seat is

 

Despite what MINIUSA said?

Totally. I think it sounds fantastic. Besides, you don't want to drown out that wonderful supercharger whine, do you? Also, you can put in a pretty nice aftermarket system for what the H/K siphons out of your wallet.

Yes. No. Aftermarket units run about $1,000 (USD) sans installation.

I haven't driven a MINI hard without LSD. Mine's got it and I like it, but I don't really drive it that hard on the street.

No problem. You can buy the parts for that. I think there's a howto on MotoringFile.

How much wear and tear does a headliner get subjected to? I think you'll be just fine.

It's what we're here for. :-)

I'd still follow up on the Checkmate availability (insistently, if need be). I'd also be inclined to order what you really want instead of "settling" (but you'll be happy with a MINI no matter what!).

 

Bugger. I didn't see the 2nd page of posts. Stupid vBulletin.

 

My guess is that the Mini Military Sales people involved are simply SICK of having to deal with SO MANY options available that they have decided to declare war on them, cutting back the number they are willing to deal with.

Why else would they do this? Some people just don't appreciate how nice it is to have this high a level of customizability!