Well, after weeks of researching and debating, I finally got a chance to finish off my testing of all the MINI models and I came to the conclusion that..

1) I wanted a supercharged one
2) I wanted new
3) I wanted the old body style and interior as the new one is too much for me to stomach
4)The only way to get one is buying a convertible


I am excited to report that the convertible drives like a dream.. and I can still order one exactly the way I want it.

The more I looked and drove and played with the new ones, the more I didn't like it.

1) The interior is horrid. The radio is terrible not only in form but function as well. Not logical by any means and the sound quality is pretty poor.

2) I just can NOT get past that front as it looks like a New Beetle with the rounded off stuff...
3) The shifter on the new one feels like a joy stick compared to the original one which feels divine.

4) LOVE that supercharger whiiiiiiiiiiiiiine
5) Love the half open sunroof function of the top, that is so SWEET!

6) couldn't find a MCS with no sunroof used and I will NOT get a sunroof.. Hot, and lots of potential big problems so I have read about.
7) I can get the chrono package, the Harmon Kardon stereo and pick the color I want!

Oh I am sooo excited!

To me its like going back in time to be able to order a older style MINI after they stopped the body style two years ago.. its a weird feeling


So now what color? Im thinking pepper white with a dark green top? Or would that be too golf like.. It is the color of the NY Jets!

what would be a rare color combo in the 'vert?

 

Get one quick! Production is said to be rolling to an end shortly in favor of the new turbo charged/bigger dish center stack model.

I love my 2008!

 

Well you know my opinion: good choice on last of the gen1 v. the gen2!

You came to the same conclusions others of us have, and done it the "old fashioned way"... by test drives and spending time with both up close and then going with your gut instinct.

Now get that order in!

 

Have you considered the sidewalk package?
Not only would you have the last of a great era of R52s, but you'd have a special edition MINI.

 

R52's rock. Every time I read one of these threads it makes me wish I could justify ordering a "spare".... just to save...

 

I got the sidewalk two weeks ago and love it

 

What does the sidewalk give you to justify the 4K extra?

 

Some info on the sidewalk:
http://www.motoringfile.com/2007/01/...-the-sidewalk/

Primarily you get the special edition wheels and interior -- plus the $4k includes the premium and sport packages. . . so it's worth it if you want all those options.
But if, as you've stated in another thread, you absolutely do not want auto climate control and will therefore not be getting the premium package, then this is not for you.

 

Ahhhh I see.. thanks! nah, I don't see the value for me.. and no I do not want the auto climate control.. Seems silly in a convertible and its one less crazy electronic thingy to deal with