I'm new to the forum... I'm going to buy Mini, just not sure which model. I test drove both... and liked them almost equally.

But what surprised me was base Cooper. It didn't feel all that slow, I thought the small 1.6L pulled nicely. I guess since I currently drive Mazda3, base Cooper's power was more than adequate. I liked handling of MC/MCS as well, although they didn't have sports package. Question I have is: would base Cooper with Sports Package handle as good as MCS with Sports Package?

I can't decide right now because I'm not sure if I want/need all that power of MCS. But I like the fact that for $2500 more, I get a turbo and LSD. I'm aware of the cold start issues with MCS... it worries me a bit.

I'm leaning towards the base right now, but I haven't decided yet. I plan to go to the dealer tomorrow to order the car. I probably won't get much sleep tonight thinking of which one to get.

 

If you put the same wheels/tire on each each, I'd guess the MC and MCS handle more or less the same, sport package or no.

If you've test driven both and you don't feel you absolutely have to have the MCS, I'd go for the MC

 

Axela... now try a ClubMan

 

I test drove both and went with the MC. I didn't need all the power the sport had, so I saved my money and added more options onto my MC. I love it, I think it has a lot of get-up and I just came from a 325i.

 

i did the same thing and love my justacooper. the features i purchased are better than the turbo when all your in is bumper to bumber traffic.

 

I also test drove both with an automatic and ended up going with the MC. Plenty of pep for my daily commute and just as fun to drive. With the extra three grand I saved, I got all of the packages and front and rear fogs, xenons, spoiler, alarm and chrome line exterior. The sport package definitely helps with the handling. I've had the car for 6 days now and have no regrets.

 

I plan to own "Benny" forever so I picked a MCS

 

IMHO i would say stick with the justacooper (MC). i have a MC and it goes plenty fast. if you are looking into upgrading and doing a few mods id say go with the MCS, there is more out there. but if its just a commuter then stick with the MC. which ever way you go you are gonna love it.

 

My MC has plenty of get up and go. I almost switched my order once to a MCS, but decided not to. Best decision I made. I find the MC has more than enough power for my everyday needs. Plus the MPGs are great. The newer engine in the MC has plenty of down low torque and does a good job of normal everyday acceleration. I find that shifting in the 2500-3000 range is about optimum for everyday needed acceleration. I like rowing through the gears rapidly and getting into the highest gear as quickly as possible. Occasionally, when conditions warrant it accelerates nicely into the 4-5000 rpm range.

It sounds like you are leaning toward the MC, you won't regret it, I didn't.

 

I agree... as I said, I was pleasantly surprised by MC's low end pull. I love small, light cars (old gen Miatas come to mind). I even test drove Mazdaspeed3 (fastest of bunch), and I prefer the MINIs. The overall handling and feel, not to mention awesome 6-speed shifter...

I am leaning towards to MC. What I'll do is test drive MC again before I order the car... should be tonight!

 

Well... I went back and took more test drive... and ended up ordering MCS.

It was a tough decision... both are great cars. I guess in the end, I wanted the extra power.

I can't wait till it gets here in 6 weeks!!

 

Gone to the dark side she (?) has.....

 

I don't think I could have gone wrong either way. I may have been swayed to base if LSD was offered...

 

i love my MC

36.5MPG daily hahaha

i love to beat entry levels cars... My car love 80+MPH