Any tips on buying MCS for newbie?

[computadorka]

I test drove a S 2 days ago and loved it. I am looking for something fast and small. I have been looking at the WRX, 350z and other cars but the mini seems to be the best for the buck.

I am looking for the Mini Cooper S, and basically some advice or tips.

I test drove one that had sunroof and the salesman said it was selling for 24K.

They had a used mini as well, Is it a good idea to buy a used one if avaliable?

What are some must have options?

My intentions with the car is to use for transportation to work and for fun. I want to also look into any mods for it, maybe to make it perform faster.

thanks for any help.

[kapps]

Well, one option that most people will say you need are the Xenon headlights. They are nice and bright while the regular one's leave much to be desired. The sunroof is nice but adds weight to the top of the car. If you think you will use it, go for it...we got one but in Florida, it's kinda hard to find days where it's not too hot or not too cold. Also, even with the sunroof tinted, the sun can get bothersome when it's beating down on you. DSC is another option that is great to have. It will keep you out of those tight spots if you ever loose traction. If you want 2 of the three: DSC, Xenon's, or the 17" wheels, go ahead and get the Sport Package. You won't need any of the Cold Weather stuff since your in San Antonio and the Premium Package is up to you. Auto A/C doesn't really work the way you want it to when the tempertures are very high (it will blow at a high fan speed and keep the recirculate on).

As for performance add-on's, you may want to ask your dealer what will void the warrenty. I believe an intake would bring the most HP/$ of the possibly non-voiding warrenty stuff. A pulley upgrade would be one of the best warrenty voiding upgrades. Just search around this site in the Performance section to get some ideas.

[Spy Car]

Personally I would not buy a used one at this point....as I believe no one in there right mind would sell a Cooper S...unless it was a "problem" car.

I like everything in the "sport" and "premium" packages....especially the sunroof.

Good Luck

[Dave]

Given you live in Texas - everything except the cold weather stuff. Pick out the color scheme you like and load it up -

I think Nav is kinda a personal preference thing with some people not likeing the relocated speedo.

Get the sports package with the 17" wheels and then pick up a spare set of 16" on e-bay (it's cheaper to go that way than the other way).


Dave

[BruceK]

Welcome to MINI2! I agree with what was said above -- except I like the sunroof. It brightens up the interior of the car and because of it's large size it is refreshing when opened.

Yes, the auto a/c does work hard here in San Antonio on the really hot days (you can always manually adjust it if you want to) As you know, drivers here run the a/c fully 6 months of the years so the auto a/c is nice as a set-it-and-forget-it feature.

In my opinion one thing you must have for daily driving is the multifunction steering wheel. When I drive my wife's car I can't believe the hassle it is to remove my hands from the steering wheel just to adjust the volume or change radio stations/CD tracks.
And I must agree with the xenons too. Very useful.

[Dave]

Heck - I LOVE my sunroof - it's a GOTTA have!!

ps - don't get a black roof in Texas.

Dave

[dnbmiller]

Just some thoughts - I tried out all of the pricing and options using the mini website. There was plenty of time after ordering, as the wait here in Phoenix is about 6 mos. to get a new MCS. So, check with your local dealer about the wait and get in line soon if they have a wait list like we do here.

[jmoser]

Computadorka, you won't be disappointed if you end up with a MINI...I DID buy a used 02 with 13K miles, and yep, it had a "stumble" problem, but recent software upgrades fixed it--it is a sweet car.

I live in California. My favorite things?
Sunroof (I find the cloth sunshield does a great job keeping the heat out, and being able to remotely open the sun roof and windows with the key fob as I approach the car really cools it down before I get in!),
Tinted windows--gotta have with over 100 degree days here in summer
Auto A/C --same as above
Multi function steering wheel also a must--this is too cool! Just love it...


16inch wheels for comfort, as a daily driver, and if I were buying one new I would NOT get runflats--they're not that great, they're heavy and they are REALLY an uncomfortable ride....but depends on if you're buying it to race, or to commute and sometimes rip it up a little (I'm the latter).

I have the stock radio and ?boost CD, and its good enough for me....I don't know if I'd spring for the HK system--all I know about it is, its a little complicated to operate....

Xenons --WISH I did, and they're impossibly expensive to retro fit (forget it)....
If you get any fog, get front and rear fogs--we get fog in Sacramento and I had to retrofit mine....
I really wish I could get the OEM alarm system, ask how it works it sounds really cool to me, but my car is too old to retrofit it, and I'm not interested in the aftermarket irritating systems....
Don't have Navigation, I didn't want it....
Cruise Control, I have it, and I'm surprised but I don't use it--loved it on other cars, but in this car I just haven't ever used it--I just tend to DRIVE this car more actively...
DSC--personally I'd NOT get it--thought I wanted it, but my car didn't come equipped, and after driving this car, and reading alot of posts, I've come to realize many people leave it OFF most of the time, and I'm glad I don't have it...read more on this....

Still, I LOVE my car, and plan to keep it--I wouldn't trade it for another...it suits me..
Hope you get yours and happy motoring! Jenni

[computadorka]

Thanks for all the help, i hope to get it soon.