jlm: davbret started the MCO thread, but I'm the one the H&R's (
DaveInDenver on MCO).
jlm has done an excellent job of posting the technical infomation / problems we've encountered, so I'll just post some pictures.
This picture shows my MINI with the H&R coilovers adjusted to the maximum front ride height. The front is still dropped
1.75" with only 2" of ground clearance.
My MINI has had three different suspension set-ups, so here are pictures of each set-up with the same wheels and tires. Each measurement was made on flat level ground with 38 psi in the tires. All measurements are from the ground to the bottom of the plastic wheel arch molding.
The Front Suspension
The pictures that follow are the stock suspension, then the H&R springs, then the coilovers.
Notice how the H&R springs have a drop of 0.75" in the front. The H&R Coilovers should be able to reproduce this same wheel gap, but even at their highest setting,
my front coilovers were still a full inch lower than even the H&R springs, for a total drop of
1.75" 
Notice how there is *no* wheel gap at the highest ride height
The H&R coilovers *in their highest setting* (no threads left showing on the coilover body) only allowed for ~2" of ground clearance.
The Rear Suspension
Again, the pics that follow are Stock, H&R springs, and finally the H&R coilovers.
In this picture you can see pretty dramatically how much more ground clearance is available in the back and just how little light is getting through at the front.
I really would like the thank
Steve at H&R U.S.A. for his interest and quick action on this problem on our behalf. This experience has not soured me on H&R, quite the contrary. I am reassured more now than ever that H&R is committed to making a product that will satisfy their customers needs.
Also, thanks to
Randy @ MINI Motorsport for all of his patience with this project.