Mini Cooper S or Mini Cooper S JCW

[electric_cooper]

I am currently in the market for a Mini but cant decide what model to go for?

I do a lot of town driving and approx 8k per year at the moment but that is likely to change to 16k per year mainly motorway driving? I am 22 so the insurance is slightly more on the JCW (about £200) but I am happy to pay that for the extra power.

What I want to know is the other differences in running costs. My budget will cater for a low mileage 2006 model (1st gen):

MPG difference?
Tax difference?
Maintenance?
Common problems?
Does the JCW actually feel that much faster?
Does the extra tuning take way any of the comfort?
Residual?

Basically all the usual comparison questions. Anyone who has driven both and can give an unbiased opinion would be brilliant

[skdotcom]

Haven't driven a JCW, but IMO the standard Cooper S is too slow. I drove 7 standard ones before buying my current car which has a West Tuning Pulley and chip mod with 220bhp. The difference in performance is significant.
I'd suggest getting a standard MCS and shopping round for engines mods to get the performance up to the level you want.
Whilst the MCS is a comfortable car, the ride can be harsh with runflats on, and TBH I wouldnt want to be driving a lot of motorway miles in it. I'd recommend a comfy Audi A4 for that .....

[Anthony_h]

I think most things are pretty simlair other than the performance side, but if you can get the jcw get it id say you will just regret not doing it .
But i think the mini is a bit of a bad car for lots of motoway miles comfort wise, its drives well though and doesnt feel to much of a small car but revs fairly high even with the 6 speed they have.

[choccy20]

I have to say driving my GP on the motorway is like driving a big saloon car I think its down to the very comfortable leather seats and cruise control can you get cruise control in the JCW or standard Cooper S

[livlifetothemax]

I've got a works and can't argue with it for motorway driving. I have dome 20,000 miles in 10 months and I can't fault it!

I have come to notice that repairs are a hell of an expense, but I can't see how these prices (services, exhuast replacements, tyres) will be much different from the 'S'.

I'd go for it though, it's always a nice feeling getting the fastest in the model range.

[gheorgei]

jcw all the way!!!!