Firstly, nice choice, once you get a mini you wont look back.
1. Your dealer will take you through exactly how you want it specced. If theres something unclear or not mentioned make sure you bring it up. But anything you'll be able to spec on the website will be able to be specced in dealer.
2. you'll be able to track the order as it progresses, not sure of the website, check with others that have ordered minis in your area.
3. you'll have to check with your dealer about the electric blue colour, as they will be discontinuing this for the UK's 2006 cars, it depends on shipment to the USA as to when you can last order a
mcs in this colour.
4. I would suggest go for manual, love that feel of eeking out the revs from each gear, I've heard mixed reports of
DSC, i'm without it and my car handles like a dream.
regarding the r83 alloys, by the sounds of it there are a few added extras you would like. so it may be worth considering the options packages. e.g .the
mcs chili pack. I believe the
MCS comes with some 16'' alloys anyway so you may be able to compromise with your dealer.
Hope to be of some help . Welcome again.