Clutch replacement?

[foxtrotxray]

Well, okay. There goes my Pinball game.

Over the last week, I noticed that I can no longer pop the clutch. If I do, it doesn't "grip" right away, it slowly grips, as Moxie picks up speed. I knew that the clutch was starting to go, so.. I called my dealer. The conversation went something like thise...

"Yeah, i have a Mini I got from your guy, I feel my clutch may be starting to go."
"How many miles do you have now?"
"78000 miles, pickd up in October of 2002."
"So this is your second clutch?"
"Uh.. no. This is the original."
"Oh, wow. You're doing pretty good then. Most of the Minis we've had in here had to get them replaced between 40k and 60k miles. Why don't you bring it in, we'll take it for a drive and see what the tech thinks."
"Okay, no problem. How much does a new clutch run?"
"Uhm.. Hold on... <pause> You ready for this? $1385."

So. Over a grand - US dollars. That sound right? Something that, according to the dealer, has been wearing out, on average, for 50k miles?
Anyone else get their clutch done already? How'd it go, what'd you pay?

Cheers!
Mike.
[Edit: What does a pinball game have to do with this? Well, I was *Just* about to purchase a Cirqus Voltaire when this happened, so I'll have to save some more up..]

[tavis1]

I heard someone say they spent $3000 for a clutch.
Tavis1

[sth9]

I have 03 MCS, 18K miles.

I had a recent problem where the clutch made a squealing noise when i pulled out under stressful conditions (such on a hill). the noise became progressive worse and after taking it to the dealer, had the clutch and flywheel replaced.

after picking up the car i believe the clutch has a different feel to it. it engages at the top of the pedal range. i find this very disturbing and plan to make another appointment with the dealer.

can the feel of the clutch be adjusted?

[aldini]

my MC 2004 has 27,000Km and my dealer already wants to replace it without warranty. I am starting a legal fight cause this is not fair. I love my car, I dont do crazy driving and it is only 1 year old!