I've ordered a cooper s for delivery wk 1 of 2010; yes just missed out on the reduced vat.

I've spec'd 17 inch wheels and have currently ordered sports suspension (as no cost option). I have decided not to go with run flats as consensus is the ride is harsh/ expensive to replace etc.

When I test drove the s the demo car hard 17 inch wheels with normal suspension and felt ok to me (not sure if had run flats or normal tyres and the demo car has now gone to another dealer).

My question is a slightly twist on other posts on this topic.

Would 17" + sports s + normal tyres be a similar ride to 17" + normal suspension + run flats?

Any experience in this area appreciated. (Unfortunately the dealer doesn't have a car with sports s to demo).

Need to make a decision this weekend.

Thanks

Similar, but better. It's better to have firmness in the suspension than the tyres.

With regard to your question about ride firmness, I own the above car and its ride is ok without the Sport button pressed. To me the cooper S with runflats is hard anyway as it is a SPORTS CAR. Although the JCW addons are taking an already quick car and making it faster which in my opinion makes the ride harder but you dont buy this type of car for a softer ride.

I am currently changing my alloy wheels as I damaged them in the ice lol and buying replica wheels with standard non runflat tyres.

I spoke to MINI motor sport who run the MINI Challenge CUP (UK: 01273 446666) and they said that non runflats WILL make the ride slightly softer but the main bulk of the ride stiffness comes from the suspension.

In short,
MCS with runflats and suspension kit. Hard ride and heavier wheels which means a heavier car.

MCS without runflats and suspension kit. Hard ride lighter wheels which means lighter car / Steering.

Maybe if you are that concerned with ride comfort you should lose the suspension and only get the runflats. But if you like driving like Nigel Mansel everywhere then Id say get the WORKS suspension upgrade and get standard tyres.

John cooper works suspension - welcome to the ginger beer way of lowering/improving handling

Get coil overs. The ride will be far better quality, the car will handle so much better and the bill won't be much if any bigger!!!