Some Thoughts On The MC40

jim Apr 22nd, 2004 Link

To me the MC40 is about as unique as it gets – think about it – only 1000 cars. I live in NW Wisconsin and I bet I will never see a MC40 in this neck of the woods. I would have to go to the Twin Cities or Chicago and who knows I might never see one there either. It's a matter of opinion on its uniqueness, but I would love to have a MC40 – especially in about 15-20 years. If I didn't just get my Chili Red MINI, I would be in the market for one.

Reply

Shawnster Apr 22nd, 2004 Link

I could not agree more with Ian Cull!! Nicely put.

Shawn

Reply

GJR Apr 22nd, 2004 Link

I actually like the way MINI has handled this car. As a study in contrasts, just look at any PT Cruiser you see on the road- it seems like every single one has a “limited edition” badge on the hatch door.

Reply

Gabriel Bridger Apr 22nd, 2004 Link

I understand Ian point but I also agree that MINIUSA has done a good job with the car overall. 1st off they actually did something. From the article's that we've done a couple months back it would have been what we have or nothing. It all came together at the last moment and frankly we're lucky to get something at all.

Reply

Vanwall Apr 23rd, 2004 Link

If I had the dough, I'd get it in a heartbeat. It would be like the old 970S – very limited production. That said, I would carefuly remove a few bits, put 'em in storage, and replace 'em with whatever I like better. I would personalize any car I drive, so the MC40 would be another chance to express my individuality. ;-)

    BCNU,
  Rob in Dago

Reply

Rocketboy Apr 23rd, 2004 Link

Personally, I think that such 'limited edtions' are a pretty cool idea.. Would I pay a premium for one? Doubtfull, I didn't get any options on my MCS as it is, but is it any less 'special' because there is 1000 exactally the same MINIs? Not at all…

Reply

Frank Apr 23rd, 2004 Link

I am not sure the MC40 is really worth the extra $7K over a regular MCS. While I applaud MINIUSA fo rtaking the initiative to conmemorate the 40th year anniversary of the MonteCarlo race, I still think the MC40 should have offer more substance in terms of performance over stickers, red leather seats and semi-faux carbon fiber dash.

The MC40's I ahve seen in pictures are essentially bone stock MCS (Not even MFSW) with lots of stickers, plaques and nice R90 wheels.

Living in the proximity of 5 MINI dealers, I am sure I will get to see at least 5 new MC40 around here.

The car will have future collector's value but in my mind MINIUSA could have done much better and add some goods under the bonnet. I can do fairly well without the stickers and plaques, thank you very much.

Reply

Frank Apr 23rd, 2004 Link

I also agree 100% with Ian's comments. I have yet to find a perfect twin to my MINIs, yet all 1K MC40's will be fixed configurations…..

Paying $7K for a car that lacks some of the nicest ammenities in the MINI is a bit hmmmm, well let me just not say it.

Reply

Chuck Apr 23rd, 2004 Link

The sticker might be $7000 over the base price, but some Mini dealers are adding to that. Global Imports in Atlanta, GA are 'stuffing' all sorts of items to the bottom line (gap insurance, tire insurance, extended maintenance agreement to 50K) and push the MC40 price to $30K even. And yes, they are a Sonic dealership so I guess it was expected.

Reply

Rocketboy Apr 23rd, 2004 Link

Gap Insurance? That's a scam and a half in itself…

Reply

britt May 3rd, 2004 Link

I now have an MC40 and although I cannot say I disagree with any of the comments, I wanted a mini and I LOVE what I have got.

This weekend driving it around has caused lots of stares and a number of mini owners stopping for a look.

Like many things we would all pick a different set of options for a special edition mini. But lets face it, it is better than 99% of cars out there any day. Its fun to drive – even slowly!

I have not stopped grinning since I got it.

Reply