Is the 2003 Gearbox the same as the facelift Model??

[minibbb]

I have an option of swapping my 2004 54 reg (facelift) MCS for a higher spec 2004 53 plate model. My questions are, does it still have the getrag gearbox fitted, are they any less reliable on the earlier model?

Im pretty sure its a 53 plate (advert says so but number plate obscured) but it has a three spoke ulti function steering wheel fitted. Did the pre face lift come with these?

Thanks in advance for any help!

[MINIAC]

They're both Getrag transmissions but they have different gear ratios. The facelift transmission will provide better acceleration but will require more RPMs to maintain a cruising speed on the highway.

[Paul]

There are more differences, personally I think the facelift S is a sounder bet, as it's got less dash panels (less chances of rattles etc) and some nice interior and exterior changes.

[minibbb]

Thanks for the quick reply matey, any idea re the steering wheel? Im really hoping its a facelift!!

[Paul]

Check the dash in the photo, if it's a three piece (like yours) it's a facelift, otherwise, no.

The steering wheel I'm sure became an option pre-facelift. Cant recall the dates from the top of my head. PLUS they could have changed this.

[minibbb]

Its the five piece dash :-( Will it feel much slower than mine? Its gorgeous, all black with full leather, sunroof, aero etc for £8900, seems pretty good to me!

[Paul]

They do feel pretty different on the uptake, the facelift has more kick and a greater sense of urgency. Not necessarily light and day, but the difference is there for sure. Can you try before you buy?

[minibbb]

Im sure I can....it just means a trip to cardiff from Sussex!! Im prob going the GTT route in the spring so that should sort the acceleration out! I owned a 53 plate MCS a couple of years back, it felt smoother through the gears than my facelift car I reckon.

Thanks for all your help though :-)

[JustACooperClubman]

The S Getrag gearbox has been generally very solid and bulletproof. The problem with manual transmission MINIs is the junky LuK OEM clutches and dual mass flywheels,

I am thinking of adding a new Clutchmasters FX200 clutch kit and dual mass flywheel to my R53 S when the time comes.

[rellik666]

I have both pre and post an 03 S and an 07 S Cab.....I love em both.....I have no rattles in my 03 except for the sunroof.....but it is not that bad and doesn't do it all the time.........I would say the 03 is a more comfortable car to drive, I find the cab is alway expecting me to put my foot down, great on a country road, not so on the freeway.......depends on what you want from the car.....and if you are going to MOd it anyhow....then I wouldn't worry........and if it is BLACK, like proper flat black....then I would jump at it! Bring back the Black I say.....I miss mine still!