[eflow]

Hello everyone. I'm brand new here. I'm in the market for a 2007/2008 Cooper S. I've been looking for a while now and have gone thru several configurations on paper and now I think it's time to ask the hands on experts. What are your favortie options on a new Mini? If you could buy a new one or go back and start over, what would you have added or what would you take off, both performance and non-performance.

With so many options I want to make the best buy I can from the start.

Thanks,
Eric
SoCal

[MINIAC]

It might be better to list your tentative configuration and have people comment on it

[eflow]

Currently I'm thinking about an automatic trans (I have to commute in LA traffic and I will never do that with a manual trans again) sport suspension, stability control, sunroof, multifunction wheel, and a stereo package of some sort. I have a great setup in my Chevy Silverado (Sirius, cd, deck controled ipod, big sub and amp...) it just seems that the new Mini is a bear to do any aftermarket audio swap and the factory setup is just super pricey!

So there you have it, the basic list. What do you think.

[snapper]

I have to admit, after years of having auto everything in German cars, I find I I'm really enjoying manual things, some of which I had to *pay* for:

Manual A/C - hardly ever need to turn it on and I get free, heated, speed sensitive air flow through the car.

Manual dimming rear view mirror - had an auto dimmer that went bad... what a pain

Manual windshield wipers - I find unevenly timed wipers extremely distracting

[lespurgeon]

Topless, a convertable that is the main thing I would change.
Sport Suspension + is a must in my book, but so is manual transmission.
I have an '04, so many things are now different in the hard-top.

Take a look at Mikey's stereo options for the new MINI, he had great stuff ofr the '02-06 models.

[eflow]

Quote: Originally Posted by lespurgeon (original)

Take a look at Mikey's stereo options for the new MINI, he had great stuff ofr the '02-06 models.

Thanks, where might I find that...?

[Tigger, Eeyore & Roo]

Quote: Originally Posted by eflow (original)

Currently I'm thinking about an automatic trans (I have to commute in LA traffic and I will never do that with a manual trans again) sport suspension, stability control

I understand your reasons for wanting to go auto but, if commuting in "LA traffic", it seems strange to then combine it with sports suspension and stability control. Standard suspension would seem like a more comfortable / practical option if you are largely city bound. 16" wheels would probably help there too.

Oh yes, as far as stability control is concerned, I have it on my large, heavy, sloppy handling company car where it's essential. However, I wouldn't dream of having it on a fine handling MCS where it seems pointless, highly intrusive and largely wasted if you are even a remotely enthusiastic driver.

Tigger.

[Lolance]

Quote: Originally Posted by eflow (original)

Thanks, where might I find that...?

NewMINIStuff.com

USB/Bluetooth
DAB radio
Lounge Leather
Chrome Interior
Chrome Exterior

Colour?? You gotta match the outsides and insides...