So I'm debating over buying a used 2007 or going for a new 08/09...

Any major differences between the three years??

Looking for a MCS hardtop/automatic...

 

There is not much difference and no difference of any kind from exterior. Go for new because you will have full warranty as well as free standard maintenance.

 

USB port and auto window up in the 08 and not in the 07. That's all I remember off the top of my head...

 

The only other difference I've noticed between 07 and 08 is that when you press the sport button the 08 says "Sport" in the tach status display (its quite handy).

 

The USB port is still an option, not standard.

Like others have said; '08+ have auto-up windows, '07 do not, and the '08+ say "Sport" on the tach when you push the sport button, yippie! .

Very early '07s had a fully blocked bonnet scoop that may contribute to a warped scoop from the turbo heat. Very early '07s also had a non-functioning/sealed secret storage compartment [booo!]

FYI: '09s now have DSC standard, and will have e-diff available come late '08 builds.

That's all I can remember now

 

my '07 does that. I took delivery 11/17/07.

I would just order a new one. Your not going to be paying that much more for a new one over buying used. Plus it's fun to track from start to finish!!

 

My 07 does that. I took delivery Sept 29. Get a new one. The prices probably aren't spread out enough to make it worth getting an older model, unless you find a very unique or modded vehicle.

 

07's built after August of 07 had the update to show "Sport" in the tach display.

 

Thanks for the info/advice everybody...

I've been finding a lot of 2006 MCS but they're asking too much for them... 50k+ miles and they still want low-mid $20k for them... I'm like, that's insane! I could buy a brand new one for about that much...

I really want at least a 2007 if I buy used because I'd rather have a turbo then a supercharger...

I think what will end up happening is I'll just buy either a 08 at the end of the month or wait for the 09's...

Thanks everybody!

 

this the neo-golden age for all things MINI. check out the story in my Autoweek thread. these cars are hotter than fire right now, and will continue to be so as long as oil stays high, demand is high, and supplies are low. IOW y're prob better off ordering an 09 rather than buying used, esp. if U prefer turbo.

 

I was going the same route and wanting to buy used and of course the I want it right now american we are..
But after seeing the price and wondering why they are selling it and what is wrong with it thoughts , I decided to just order and get what I wanted and yes more money but I hopefully get the car and know it is new and not abused and keep it for many many years...PW/PW Aero Redwood Interior..
Hopefully mid September...Yippie

 

So for the most part, the 08/09 is major difference is traction control?

 

The tipping point for 07s is week 32 production:

32nd week and beyond have:
2007 32nd week and on -
- Sport Button pops up in the tach when depressed
- Cruise control speed (when set) is better displayed in the tach
- TPMS - tire pressure monitoring system - changes from passive to active requiring the use of TPMS sensors
- ability to set Gong volume

2008
- add auto up window functionality
- add USB/Bluetooth Functionality (when equipped)

2009
- add DTC - DSC now standard

Hope that helps.

 

Interesting, I've been meaning to start a thread about the subtle differences between the model years, and here's all the answers.

 

Thanks again everyone... Hopefully I'll be a new owner soon!

 

I'd wait until I could order DTC (electronic traction control). Ask your dealer how soon you can order it. I'd also order the Bluetooth/iPod option that provides a USB port for controlling the iPod. Not quite as slick as the iPod Integration, but less expensive.

The only thing I prefer about the pre Sept. 2007 R56 is the passive tire pressure monitoring system. It works on wheel speeds to tell if one tire is flat. So, no need for sensors in the wheels.

 

You said it!

 

I gotta get this SC300 sold first... Thing is mint but everyone keeps low balling me...

How does the tire pressure gauge work on aftermarket wheels? I've been noticing a lot of cars are starting to put these on... I know on the Scion xD's you would have to make sure you took the valve cap off your steelies if you didn't want your sensor staying lit...

 

If you are asking how to deal with TPMS sensors on aftermarket wheels, most new wheels are compatible with them. You can switch them from your old wheels, or buy new sensors at most tire places. It isn't really a problem, just an added expense.

 

Picked up a 08 MCS on Saturday... Lovin it!

 

Congrats on your MINI!! Tell us a little more about it. Where did you find it? Post a picture if you can.

 

Hey thanks! I can't seem to find enough turns to make...

It's a pretty basic Pure Silver/black roof MCS, off the lot... Didn't have the time to wait 8 to 10 weeks to order one... Had to drive 3 hrs to pick her up out of state...

Auto Tranny, Halogen Headlamps... Actually the only add-on that is on there they put from factory is the multifunction steering wheel...

Then I had them add the 3M clear bra...

Pretty plain right now, will have some 17's on there soon, and maybe a 1" drop... Also plan on putting in a stiff aftermarket blow-off valve...

 

How?


...oh and get a new one. The old ones are holding value so well due to the oil crisis you're better off getting a new one right now. Unless you find a cheap one that's been rolled.....yeah.

 

Thanks for the pics...looks like you have a nice MINI! The turns will only get better.

 

In the supplemental manual for your radio (after week 32 build) look under Settings and you'll see Chime. You really have to look for it.