Well, I have added stainless steel brakelines and a rear sway bar to the mix on my car. Now I am looking at one more mod that could really make it an excellent handler on my local mountain roads.

Currently, I run the holies and some 195/50/15 performance tires. The tires and wheels seem to be a good match and I really don't feel like lowering the car THAT much. However, I am torn between either upgrading to:

Rota Slipstream wheels with some Advan AO48 tires
the M7 USS


So, I guess the question is whether or not I should go with the USS or an upgraded wheel and tire setup next. Any thoughts either way?

 

I would do suspension, though I know you said you don't want to lower your MINI, it will corner better. Perhaps you could do camber plates as well.

 

IIf I do go the lowering path, I am doing the TSW springs for sure. However, I can't help but think that there is something else IO can do to improve the handling without going to yet another Driving Class or lowering the car. Maybe the USS would be better?

 

Also, would lowering be effective with the OEM size tires (175/65/15) that come with a stock cooper?

 

 

In regards to the USS. The benefits are questionable for other than the convertables (and even those are under debate). Going with new tires will give you the biggest bang for the buck at this time.

 

Camber plates will help your turn in a lot and also help with front tire wear.

 

x2.

Get adjustable front camber/caster plates and get a decent alignment. You won't regret it.