[shieldhouse]

I am ordering a Mini S and need a bit of guidance about the usefulness of some of the available options.

I'm going with the sport package because I want the safety features of DSC and xenons. Along this line, I'm thinking the rear fog lamp would help with visibility, which has got to be important for a tiny car mixing it up with 53-foot semis.

On the other hand, most of my driving will be on flat, straight Florida roads. Do I really need DSS?

The BMW I just sold had cruise control, which I occasionally use, and steering controls for the radio. What's everyone's take on this option? I don't want to add all kinds of jewelry to the car which I really won't need and which has a looming potential to crap out.

I decided to eliminate the sunroof after I saw that the only thing between me and the sun -- with the sunroof shut -- is a little screen. That would be okay in a dark and often gloomy place like northern Europe, but it would be a prescription for discomfort here in Florida -- especially with global warming!

I'd certainly appreciate any comments.

rs