I have a 2010 MCS auto and am considering entering the slippery slope of performance mods. Right now my S is bone stock aside from a K&N drop in.

What performance mods will do the most for me between $300-500?

Thanks!
Drew

 

Start with the handling aspect like a rear sway bar. You will be amazed after it is on.

 

You want a big leap in horsepower? Expect to may at least $2000 for everything that's needed. Doesn't make sense does it

The Helix short shift kit and H-sport competition rear sway bar are the best things you can do to the MINI for under $300.

 

Truly, truly! And you can take this mod with you to any vehicle!

Cheers,

Charlie

 

find a good go-kart track that teaches driving ..... or what he just said . . .

you'll improve your times WAY more than any bolt on.

 

driving school!

 

For $300-500 I would go with an Hsport Comp Sway bar

but for real engine performance I would go with a Forge Intercooler

 

The NM lower engine mount makes a signficant difference in reducing torque steer, for $60 it is worth a try. There is also the 'free camber mod' in the front, which along with an alignment is a good thing.

There are no quick/cheap mods to get more HP, so focus on handling and driver training.

Have fun,
Mike

 

For $10, I think the BMS clutch stop is worth it, if you drive a manual, for quicker shifting.

 

All great suggestions so far! I do believe I will be focusing on handling mods to start with. Front and rear sway bars and a STD/SARS set up maybe? A little over my initial budget, I know, but doing them one at a time might not hurt too bad :-)

All this is in prep for classes and racing AutoX next spring, so I have that covered.

MCS2011, I went with an automatic so that one is no good for me, but I have heard that's a good cheap manual mod.

Drew

 

Most people don't change the front sway bar for a couple of reasons: 1. It is a monster job (I've read from 4-8 hours to do the job). 2. The mini benefits from a stiffer rear bar, in conjunction with the stock front bar. If the front bar is made stiffer, you may need even more stiffness in the rear to balance the car.

Keep reading here, there are several good discussions in the Mods:suspension section. Just scroll down the topics from the past and you will likely get some good info.

I also recommend that you keep an eye on the used parts in both marketplaces. Sometimes there may be something that fits your needs for cheap.

Also notice that nobody recommended lowering springs or shocks in your budget.

Have fun,
Mike