I made the mistake of test driving a MCS thinking I *might* decide to get myself a brand new car rather than a used newer vehicle (most likely a Miata). Well I got hooked, and have been seriously looking into purchasing a 2005 MCS.
A search has been performed, but I have found it difficult to pull together much information that is useful, particularly as much of it is very old. I apologize if some things here should have gone elsewhere.
1) What options/packages do you recommend and which are not worth it? Particularly the sport package and the harmon kardon speaker system? I realize the sport suspension comes standard on the MCS, but I wonder about the ride quality difference between the 16" and 17" tires. Many reviews have said the sport suspension on the MCS is harsh as it is and I'm sure the 17" make it worse. I have driven the MCS with 17" and it was quite stiff, I'm not sure if I will be able to try a MCS with 16" wheels before I order. Problem is the Sport Package comes with everything else I want, and it is almost too good a price to pass on simply because I don't want the 17's and instead have to option everything individually. Opinions on the Convenience and Premium packages as well?
2) What is the MINI Select payment plan? There isn't much detail on the MINI website, but the payments are far cheaper than the traditional finance.
3) What is the current status on the reliability issues (particularly the stalling issue)?
4) Pricing. Being in Detroit, I am inclined to talk to Motor City MINI, which on this board seems to have its lovers and haters. I am most curious about the success of getting cars for under MSRP. Has it happened? Often? Was it difficult?
Any additional comments on the MINI are greatly appreciated. I am very interested in purchasing this vehicle and am trying to get a bit more info. It is either Mazdaspeed Miata or MCS. I plan to keep the car at least 4+ years and want to make the best decision. I love RWD and convertible, but MINI is just about as much fun and a bit more practical and comfy as well. A bit concerned about reliability. The miata is nearly indestructible, the MINI seems to be anywhere from less so to much less so.
I'm very torn. I can get a great deal on a 04 Mazdaspeed or pay ~ MSRP 05 MINI. Very hard decision.
A search has been performed, but I have found it difficult to pull together much information that is useful, particularly as much of it is very old. I apologize if some things here should have gone elsewhere.
1) What options/packages do you recommend and which are not worth it? Particularly the sport package and the harmon kardon speaker system? I realize the sport suspension comes standard on the MCS, but I wonder about the ride quality difference between the 16" and 17" tires. Many reviews have said the sport suspension on the MCS is harsh as it is and I'm sure the 17" make it worse. I have driven the MCS with 17" and it was quite stiff, I'm not sure if I will be able to try a MCS with 16" wheels before I order. Problem is the Sport Package comes with everything else I want, and it is almost too good a price to pass on simply because I don't want the 17's and instead have to option everything individually. Opinions on the Convenience and Premium packages as well?
2) What is the MINI Select payment plan? There isn't much detail on the MINI website, but the payments are far cheaper than the traditional finance.
3) What is the current status on the reliability issues (particularly the stalling issue)?
4) Pricing. Being in Detroit, I am inclined to talk to Motor City MINI, which on this board seems to have its lovers and haters. I am most curious about the success of getting cars for under MSRP. Has it happened? Often? Was it difficult?
Any additional comments on the MINI are greatly appreciated. I am very interested in purchasing this vehicle and am trying to get a bit more info. It is either Mazdaspeed Miata or MCS. I plan to keep the car at least 4+ years and want to make the best decision. I love RWD and convertible, but MINI is just about as much fun and a bit more practical and comfy as well. A bit concerned about reliability. The miata is nearly indestructible, the MINI seems to be anywhere from less so to much less so.
I'm very torn. I can get a great deal on a 04 Mazdaspeed or pay ~ MSRP 05 MINI. Very hard decision.