So, I'm in the market for a mini, and I have certain wants, and the rest I couldn't care for. I wanted a mini with a turbo, so the justa's out! I wanted it to be in blue with black stripes and a black top, and it has to be stick shift.

I went to the dealer and they quoted me $26910 for a new MCS in lightning blue with a center armrest and bluetooth/iphone connectivitiy as its 2 options.

Then, I went on CL and found an 09 MCS JCW (http://sfbay.craigslist.org/nby/ctd/2979929583.html) for $25k and 32k miles.

Now, with that said, would you get the new MCS or the old JCW? I know there was an engine change last year to address some of the problems that plagued the 1st gen and early 2nd gen minis like the carbon caked intakes, but would you consider the 2nd one a deal? Or would you get the MCS brand new? Thanks!

 

I'm not sure how our markets differ but I got my well optioned '09 with 34K for $21.5K in great condition. If it would have been $25k I would have opted for a '12 S instead. I love my JCW but for that close to the same price I'd rather be the original owner (so you know how it's cared for) and have the warranty to fall back on for a few years.

 

yah, that's kind of what I'm thinking too! Thanks!

 

****Agreed***** I would be inclined to go with the 2012 especially with the little bit of price spread.

 

I am prone to agree with these guys. It is nice to be an original owner and have the luxury of a new car warranty. A clean '09 JCW would be nice to own, but a new MCS is better.

 

Definitely the new "S."

 

Having done both, if you are the type that wants to mod the car to the max with performance parts then the JCW has a more possibilities since it is still using the N14 motor. If modding isn't in the plans stick with the new S.

 

The 2012 will get you the N-18 motor. That's reason enough to opt for that one.

 

I have a 2012 now and had a 2008 before. I put a carbon catch can on mine about 5000 miles ago and have had NOTHING in the can yet....my 2008 had sludge in it by now!

 

The possible carbon buildup on the JCW would be my biggest concern and probably a deal breaker unless I got a hell of a price.

 

With a used car, you are stuck with the options and colors that are there. I see the JCW has automatic air and sunroof, which are probably options that are not included in the new car. I also really like the challenge wheels on the JCW, and am also partial to the cloth interior in that car. The JCW also has an upgraded turbo and clutch, plus a handful more power, and the painted fender arches. If you want to mod the car there are limited options with the new engine (but they are coming).

I don't think that $25k is a deal for the JCW. For $22k I would take the used car, since it is still under warranty. I also agree with the above comments on being the only owner.

Its a MINI, you will have fun..... no bad decisions.

 

I thought the 2011+ got N18 engines that supposedly had the caked on carbon issue resolved!

 

Low-ball and haggle the 2009 JCW for a lower price and go with that.
The JCW is worth the price of admission (assuming it's been cared for and taken care of).

- Erik

 

Hahahaha, I wish I could! But, seeing that it's a dealership, I doin they'd let I go for like 22k out the door!

 

It all depends on how long they have it and how desirable the car is. Lets face it, you can get a lot of car for $25k (that is why you are posting for opinions).

My 08 MCSa was listed for 19k at a dealer. 2 months later I got it for $15k. Again, my car is far from perfect (scratches, dings, 49k), but I was happy with the deal.

Is it a MINI dealer or somewhere else? Did it just show up on the lot, or has it been there for a while? you have a solid option by buying a new one, so don't get too wrapped up in the JCW. Take it for a ride, see if you notice a difference between the MCS and JCW. See if you can get a build sheet with options (mini dealer should be able to get this from the key fob).

Have fun,
mike

 

You'd be amazed when you flash the cash; I've walked out the door with keys in hand even after handing a check several thousands of dollars less than their listed price.
Remember to check your comparisons on what other cars are being sold and use that to your advantage.

- Erik

 

The big question is, if you bought the "S", would you always wish you had a JCW? If so, get the JCW or you'll always regret it. I had an S and regretted it enough to take a loss merely a year later after purchase to upgrade to the JCW. It really is a different beast.

 

The 2012 MCS does have the N18 engine vs the N14 found in 2007-2010 MCSs and JCWs through 2012 however, the jury is still out as to carbon build up on the valves in the N18. They are both direct injection engines and this is one of the drawbacks to this design. Manufacturers are moving this direction because it is a more efficient engine design with regard to fuel consumption. Further, they still haven't cracked the ECU on the N18 after nearly 2 years on the market, so it isn't as tuneable as the N14, and it may never be. Finally, for many folks the various packages and options don't mean much, but for others (like me) Cold Weather, Premium, Sport, Convenience, etc. are very important. I have learned to really enjoy many of the "creature comforts" as I have gotten older and I would have trouble driving a "bare bones" vehicle every day for 5-7 years. Just my $.02.

 

most of the dealers around here want 26k for a 42k miles 09 jcw,I know someone(mid to late 40s in age) selling a garage kept,never in rain or at beach 1 owner perfect carfax never any damage just serviced 09 jcw prem pak,jcw aero kit,jcw wing,nav,bluetooth with just under 15k miles for $24995.car has 3 months of maintence left and 15 months bumper to bumper left, all service records.

Reason they are selling is it is a 4th car and feb 2012 last time car was driven .

 

Go with the new MCS!

 

Never hurts to ask. If they say no then you are no worse off then you were before asking. The most powerful motivator for a dealer is seeing the customer walking out the door. They know that the likelihood of that customer coming back decreases with every minute and every step.

 

Have to add this is a great deal!!!

At the original post, I'd say since I have the JCW And get to drive the MCS their is a huge difference in experience among the two, not even remotely the same fun factor when performance is ask for, yet with mods the MCS can be made to stop and brake well, yet how much would you spend on a fully warrantied car, yet the JCW has so many mods and I'm sure a deal could be struck there too. Drive them both and follow your gut!!
For cruising the S is just as good and a bit more comfortable, yet if the Mini experience is your motivation then the Works is the way to go!!!

Enjoy whatever you buy!!!!