I could get a 2013 JCW for $19,995 with 31,000 miles or for almost exactly the same price a 2015 Cooper S All4 with similar mileage. I would want to modify the S with possibly Stage 1 components to get to where the JCW is or better. So, I'm a bit confused. I don't love the color combo of the JCW that is for sale and it has captains' chairs in the back which is also a negative BUT it has upgraded engine, suspension, rear brakes, etc. I never considered a JCW because I thought they would be way out of my price range with a low mileage car. Now, I've found 2 that seem feasible. Thanks! My first brand new car in my life was a 2003 Chili Red/White MCS and I'm so excited to get back in the MINI family!

 

If a car says it has Sport Package, does that mean upgraded suspension similar to the JCW? Thanks!

 

No, the sport package just has the "sport" mode button. The sport mode will tighten the steering, increase the torque for better throttle response, add pops and cracks in the exhaust, and if it is an automatic it will also speed shifting intervals.

 

Okay, I test drove a manual and I was surprised to see it had a "sport" mode. Thanks

 

NO problem! I have a 14 MCS with a manual trans and there is a huge difference in the way the vehicle drives in and out of sport mode. I pretty much drive in sport mode all the time now.

 

Personally, I would go with whichever car has the right balance of color and options you want. Compromising on options may turn out to be buyer's remorse because aftermarket options might not exist or be sufficient. (e.g.: HID lighting).

I believe sport package refers to upgraded wheels (18" vs 17" standard), sport seats, and white turn signals.

Not sure if any of the following comes into play or not... I'm guessing not, because you plan to modify it. At that mileage and age, there's proabably no free maintenance applicable to either car -- 3yr/36k, whichever hits first. The yrs is based on when car goes "into service" or when the car is first sold or used as a loaner/lease. For factory warranty, the 2015 might still be covered under the 4yr/50k, unless it's CPO then that would be extended.

 

I have a 2013 JCW that we ordered brand new LOVE this car. Too many mods to list and we've decided this will be (we're in our 70's) are LAST 'til death parts us and NO expense spared.
Anyone can run an S but only a BADASS would choose a JCW.
ISAMIN

 

I will most likely not go with a JCW. I am having a problem finding a manual transmission with the color options I want. I have been looking for about 2 months now and was hoping I'd have it by this weekend. I like the White, Cosmic Blue, Oxford Green, Chili Red/Black. All I am finding is Dark Grey, Copper, Light Blue, etc. I also really want the black headlights and I am particular about the rims lol. Now I think people will start to understand why I am taking so long!

 

I would go with the JCW myself. You find in the R60 / R61 models more automatics then any other model. You will find most JCW's are manual.