So if the MC is a "purity" thing or more wholesome, whats that make the MCS? A "harlott" - other words come to mind to. I can live with it and the appeal of the MCS. I guess anything is debatable, but I don't see the purity adjective attached to a car, unless it's modified and "bastardized".

 

Speculating here...but I wouldn't attach the term to a car necessarily, but maybe to a certain type of driving experience. The consensus seems to be that the MCS generally has plenty of power on reserve, whereas one has to "work it" more deliberately with a Cooper to stay in the power band. Perhaps lighter weight Coopers would feel more nimble, too....you hear that a lot. That may not capture the whole idea, but it hits some of the high points. In the end it's just drivers trying to describe some unique qualities of Cooper motoring. You're right...very subjective/debatable.

 

It's been a great discussion, but since it's the wife's car she is making the call. So far she likes that we have one MINI but also likes the convenience of loading up the SW with family, kids, dog, friends, groceries etc. So it doesn't look like I am going to persuade her out of the wagon, when she can just borrow my car to have some fun. I was looking forward to bouncing between the two 'different' MINIs.

Oh well, thanks again. Looks now like it's a no-sale, unfortunately. Just have to wait for the 2008 Traveller.

 

I test drove both 6 months before I bought a MC. Power wasn't my priority but I don't recall feeling a big difference though I didn't drive very aggessively on the test drive. I feel I would get into trouble with a MCS, with the MC I have to think about when I want some oomph and do the right things to get it. The MCS I'd feel less involved when doing some spirited driving. Lastly, though I love the looks of both, I'm coming from a '72 Mini, and prefer the styling of the MC.

 

I am still waiting for the first one and am already thinking about trying for a second MINI.

On the bright side I am also curious about the Traveler in 2008. I hope the extra length does not throw off the fun part too much.

 

It will be a fair trade off, a little longer, but more and better HP/TQ, and room for the dog and luggage. No roof racks and no cargo trailers. I wish I could make the deal now, because it will be an easy trade-in of either of the 2006's when the Traveller is in. Go for your 2nd one, keep the price close to base MSRP and I think you'll be in a good position to trade one in 2 years, don't you?

 

I think purity may not be the best term but perhaps simplicity is a good way to describe the Cooper. Its a naturally aspirated engine, and although its not the fastest or most exhilerating car there's something enjoyable about it. Thats not to say that the MCS isn't an amazing car (if I could afford one I'd get an MCS JCW) but some prefer the simplicity of the MC and don't have the "need for speed," if you will

 

Join the 2-MINI household group! It's well worth it not to have to fight over the fun car (or to have to change the seats over and over again).

I've noticed that on our runs, not every car that is going slow is an MC, and not every car that is moving quickly is an MCS. I think transmission and driving style are great factors in how quickly a car will move around. We tested a MCS JCW and MCS when we started. We liked the additional power of the JCW, but didn't buy it. I honestly don't miss it. I'm not driving to beat everyone else to where I'm going (although I do like it when they move out of the way!)

As to the stronger brakes, we did order the JCW brakes. He got his first with JCW, mine came stock. There is a noticeable difference between the two, so I upgraded mine.

 

Don't the JCW brakes require the 17 inch wheels? I am looking to stay in 16's.

 

Really? The MC with the CVT will outperform the '06 MCS six speed auto?

 

I love driving my MC. I've test drove a MCS and it seemed a bit more peppy. But my personal preference is the MC.