I was wondering if there is a big difference between the regular suspension on my MINI versus an MCS stock suspension? Is it all pretty mush just bolt on or is there any modification and fabrication to be done? Is the ride a lot stiffer and lower? Any help or info would be great.

 

miniotto,

The MC with factory installed Sport suspension plus option is essentially the same as a stock MCS suspension. The actual part numbers vary a bit based on the options installed in the MCS due to differences of weight.

Find an MC with the SS+ installed and similar wheels to your MC and go for a test drive. The suspension is stiffer than the stock MC.

You can order the parts (call Classic Auto campus) for front and rear springs and rear swaybar. Most likely you can keep your stock MC shocks but that could be changed if you like. The ride height will likely be very close to stock.

The expense of all this is quite high if you buy the parts new. You'd be better off finding an MCS owner that has upgraded to lowering springs and adjustable rear sway bar and just buy their used stock MCS parts. Make an offer like $100 for everything depending on what condition the parts are in.
You can also buy used MCS suspension parts from Helix13.com.

Are you planning to autocross? If so those mods would take you out of stock class unless you are very careful to get the right SS+ parts. You can search NAM for SS+ and there is alot already posted.

Another option is getting lowering springs and adjustable 19mm rear sway bar. Springs can be Alta, Tein,or M7 depending on how low you want to go.
Again, you can go for a ride in a MC that has lowering springs to see what it's like.