I went to the dealer yesterday to confirm my specs and I asked them an=bout the 16" R-90 wheels. Turns out they charge $1,950!!! Is that right? Where can they be had for less?

 

I suggest buy the wheels only at Classic MINI since they give discount and then purchase tires at Tirerack. Have it mounted/balanced at your local tire shop.
Though it's not convenient than buying at your dealer at least you save some.

 

My local mini charges $771 for a set of 4 of the R90 16" wheels. Extra $100 to mount/balance them.
I think your dealer might have mistakenly quoted the price of the 17" wheels.

 

jfaber. you should check out wheelmax.com select ADR wheels there is a wheel just like r-90 it's call M-CLASSIC.