After 2000 miles, the MCS is everything I hoped it would be...and a ton of FUN! First, I'm a believer in you are what you drive. I'm assuming most of us here will never drive a Buick Park Avenue in our lifetimes

The most satisfying part of the 2007 MINI, for me, has been the 6 speed manual gearbox. It fits like a glove. Each shift up snaps into place perfectly. Down shifting is just as smooth. Five star rating for the gearbox...

Up next, exterior fit and finish. Another 5 stars! Open the door, shut the door -- S O L I D. Built like a tank. Reminds me of my old Mercedes Benz 280SE. Nothing chintzy on the outside...

...which brings us to the inside Much has been said about the disappointing center console. I like it, sans the plastic appearance. The clown-like proportions of the speedo is some kind of retro art deco...and as someone who appreciates classic bakelite radios, I like the speedo. And despite the plastic parts, the center console/sound system works as advertised. I especially like the on/off button location for the radio...with my hand resting on the shift ****, it's a straight shot to pop that button...

Gas mileage is averaging 33 mpg. Most of my miles have been highway miles at about 58 mph (with occasional spirited boost!)...seven miles one way to work on a straight 55 mph two lane into town...

The ride is stiff but not harsh. I have runflats. Still, handling is terrific and makes the MINI a joy to drive. Rain or shine, it stays put and goes where it's pointed. Speaking of rain, the auto sensor windshield wipers are a keeper!! I love 'em! So far, they are perfectly matched to the Oregon Coast...

So after 2000 miles, this MINI owner is one happy camper

John

2007 MCS Sparkling Silver top to bottom, Leather Punch Carbon Black, Cold Weather Package, Premium Package, Sport Package, 17" Crown Spoke, Chrome Line Interior, Color Line Dark Grey, Interior Surface English Oak, Auto-dimming rear view mirror, Rain Sensor, and Auto Headlight...

 

You have great discipline to be able to hold it down to 58...

The instrument console seems OK, except for the window controls. I often crack the passenger window for limited ventilation, and adjust it according to speed. Its switch location is not very convenient for the driver. Depending on what gear it is in, I have to reach around the right or left of the shift lever to reach the switch. BMW went cheap on this, not giving the driver a master control on the windows.

The car is fun to drive -- perhaps a little too fun. I find myself driving a little hotter than I should...

 

The window controls were the same on the R50/53. No cheapness, just continuing the quirkyness of a MINI.

 

Well, now that Gabe over at MotoringFile is ordering an R56 (and articulated it's nuances in such glowing terms), I think a lot of folks will be won over. I expect that, as with R50/53, the niggles we (rightly) pick out here and there will seem inconsequential long term and when considering the car as a whole. You just don't find too many folks (or any folks for that matter) that spend substantial time in R56 and don't fall in love. What a great car!!!

 

Yes, and as sales climb, and performance add ons hit the market all the myths that have been bandied about will go up in smoke. Expect the few ******* that have a vendetta against the R56 to go ballistic as their world crumbles.

 

you said it lava

 

Yeah, I've been surprised at some of the comments on this and other forums. I understand some folks have a difficult time with 'change,' but give me a break