Thought you R50/R53 owners might appreciate this Wall Street Journal article that provides a less hyped perspective on the R53/R56 differences.

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB1177...googlenews_wsj

 

Like most things, newer isn't necessarily better.

 

Seems like a fair review! Points out the improvements in the drivetrain and suspension while dinging the center stack. Pretty much matches what my personal observations have been. I know that I'd love the extra MPG that the new car gets while still having more than sufficient hp and torque. From reading comments from R56 owners, it certainly sounds like they are enjoying their MINIs as much as my wife and I are enjoying our R53s (and that is the most important thing).

 

"The difference is like switching from AC-DC to Enya." Ha, that's awesome.

mb

 

I was just going to quote that and giggle... you beat me to it!

Very ingenius line!