[whokilledkaji]

Well... It's been a really long time since I've visited MINI2... Mostly because I'm too busy driving my awesome 2005 MINI Cooper S.

Well... Until last week that is...

You see, my car was in a pretty bad accident and took a beating. Yesterday the dealer suggested that I just get a new MINI as it would be my cheapest option. (I should mention that I live in Japan and the way insurance works here is pretty wacky!)

Anyways, from today I'll be checking out the new MINI and making some descisions... I have to admit though... I feel like a newbie again. I wasn't even considering a new MINI for at least a couple years because I loved my current MINI so much!

So... To start me on my journey. Can you guys get me up to speed? Any pitfalls or things to watch out for? Any must have options? Any suggestions or comments at all?

Thanks!!!

[whokilledkaji]

Oh, nearly forgot... My current Cooper S is all Dark Silver, even the roof and mirrors... I like simple, but sleek. I also have the R99 wheels. Love 'em. I was thinking about laser blue this time, but haven't seen too many new MINIs in Japan yet. I will go to the dealer soon just to see what the colors really look like.

[AprilWhine]

Welcome back! I can't help with choosing an R56, I haven't bought one yet.

[paulteix]

hey mate, also a big welcome back, but i am also one of the drivers with the 'old' mini (r50), but i love it!!!

if you are looking for several colours and their appearance just take a look at my site, there are a lot of them!!!

greets, paulo

[VeryRedMCS]

Quote: Originally Posted by whokilledkaji (original)

So... To start me on my journey. Can you guys get me up to speed? Any pitfalls or things to watch out for? Any must have options? Any suggestions or comments at all?

Thanks!!!

As you probably know, not that much has changed between the 1st and 2nd generation MINIs... in spite of the fact that they are truly all-new! The biggest change is the switch from a supercharger to the turbo on the S, and I can't say that I've heard anything negative about that change. I had a 1st generation Cooper and just recently got an '07 S that I am very happy with. I haven't had it long enough to know too much about long-term reliability, and the only minor complaint I have with it is the sunroof. Where I am the summer temps are over 100F nearly half the time, and the sliding "shade" does very little to keep the sun out...it gets hot inside!Also, the shade has a habit of sliding part way open (2 or 3 inches) as I drive, a problem that seems to plague most sunroof-equipped MINIs.
The Convenience Package is a good one, as I really like the way I can keep the key in my pocket and still lock/unlock and start the car. It might seem like a frivolous option, but it's one that I would want on my next MINI. As for other options, let your personal preferences and budget be your guide!

[brett]

welcome back to! I am in a similar boat to you, with out the insurance and car crash issues,, thinking of upgrading to a R56, gotta love the carpet under the wheel arches

Hope your Ok after the accident mate

[JohnWB]

I changed from an R53 MCS to an R56 MCS and must say that it is excellent.
Much more bottom end power and a more refined car. The only thing I would say against it is that it is not quite as sharp and nippy as the old one but actually covers the ground faster and easier.

[whokilledkaji]

I'll be getting my new MINI in about two weeks!!! (Had to get one that's already in the country)

Here are the specs:

Mini Cooper S (Automatic - Wife won't let me get a manual transmission!!!)
Laser Blue / white roof
17" R99 wheels (These are from my old car though)
Chrome Line Exterior
White indicator lights
Sports Steering Wheel


Can't wait!