Does anyone know how the R53 MCS SS+ suspension compares to the R56 MCS standard & the R56 MCS sports suspension.
I have the R53 MCS (early 2004) with the SS+ suspension and was wondering which of the R56 MCS suspensions feels the nearest to that regarding handling/grip & ride quality.
What I am looking for is a similar amount of handling/grip & a better ride quality than the R53
I don't tend to drive hard all the time but when I do I like a secure feel to the car.
I changed to none runflats on my R53 as I thought the ss+ ride was to harsh but I love the hadling it gives. Any help greatfully received

We've got an R56 MCS, and my 05 MCSC, now the MCS suspension is slightly more bouncey than the tintop version with SS+, but only slightly so you can judge on how this compares to yours;)

I'd have to say the R56 with Sports is more comfortable, less harsh and absorbing for general use than any of the old MINI's, as you would expect on any modern car. But it still holds well on the corners with no risk of sea sickness.

I personally prefer the harsher ride of the old MINI though, but thats because I do suffer from travel sickness, more so in cars that wallow on bends;)

The R56 Sports suspension is far more comfortable than the old R53 SS+. It is a great balance for all types of driving.

However, I too preferred the SS+ on the R53 for more "spirited" driving. But it only takes a little getting used to on the R56. The R53 just gave you confidence instantly, the R56 has taken a little getting used to. Still, it's a nice balance for everyday use.

Pretty much what they said ^^^.

I've found the R56 can be driven as quick, if not quicker through the twisties than the R53, but you're less connected with the R56. It's smoother, one more step removed.

The Sports is certainly more comfortable than the old SS+.

I know I have said this before in another similar thread, I have purposefully avoided taking the new cooper s out for a test drive for this very reason. I had a test drive booked for 2 weeks ago.


I love my MCS. I was thinking about changing for a Subaru Impreza a few weeks back and although it had more power and torque to tap, the drive was far more disconnected and distant from the feel my Cooper S with sports+ suspension has. I love my little car seeking out every bump and camber in the road. When going down a country road at a fair speed I am totally connected with it, taking in every part of the road. The only car I personally know of which comes near is a Lotus Elise, which is going to be my next purchase.

To hear that BMW have moved towards the middle, more comfortable sector of the market and appeal to a wider range of people it upsets me, but to be honest when it comes to sales you can’t blame them for that.

My test drive with the new MCS was cancelled for this reason. I would rather pump money into my older model, but that’s just personal preference.

Thanks very much for all your answers people, exactly what i was looking for.
So the sports suspension it is, now I have to choose which colour to go for & whether or not to get the DAB radio

DAB is well worth it in my opinion. If you listen to five live etc it's a must!

^^^^ what he said, DAB would be on my list of options:)

Heres a question for you. Is it worth getting the Sports Suspenion on the new r56 if you are going to be putting eibach lowering springs on?