We now return you to your regularly scheduled programming….carry on.

If the changes from 02-04 to 05-06 were “enormous”, how would you describe the changes from 05-06 to 07?

I’m talking about changes in the context of the same model cycle. The changes from the R50/R53 to the R56 are on a totally different level because it is a completely new car and a new model cycle.

If the changes from 02-04 to 05-06 were “enormous”, how would you describe the changes from 05-06 to 07?

My observation is “refinement” rarely has anything to do with the “classic” status of an auto. First year of a new model is more likely to be a collectible than the later, more refined, models, especially if there are fewer of the first year models available. Also, the original unmodified Frank Stephenson design may attact some collectors. Twenty five years from now all the current MINIs will be so old that whether or not one had more rattles or “teething” problems than the other in the distant past will be a very insignificant point.

I’ll get back with you in twenty five years and we’ll discuss this more…..I’ll only be 88 then. LOL

The general consensus is that the 2005 and 2006 cars (with the enormous amount of changes inside and out) are much better made. And then there is the addition of LSD, increased power output and revised gearing that seems to suit the MCS much better than the initial set-up on the 02-04s. The ‘05-’06 models are commonly looked at the ones to get in the MINI community if you have a choice.

Yeah, what he said. Really, pointing out that the 2005-2006 MINI’s are more refined isn’t meant to slight the 2002-2004′s. Only acknowledging that in the model lifecycle, MINI had time to correct problems and eliminate actual or perceived deficiencies.

I have no doubt the R56 is going to be a fine car. My reservations are more due to my personal tastes and preferences rather than a feeling that the car is somehow substandard. Like most of us, I’d prefer MINI to continue to prosper as a brand.

Here’s what will happen. Twenty years from now, some number of balding and overweight men will seek to relive their youth with the car thay had so much fun with during their 20′s or 30′s. Now flushed with money from their successful careers, they will spare no expense to acquire the ones in best condition (the ones without rusted out door sills).

Somehow I doubt that very much………and if it were true, why would the 02-04 not be every much a “classic” as an 05 or 06?

The general consensus is that the 2005 and 2006 cars (with the enormous amount of changes inside and out) are much better made. And then there is the addition of LSD, increased power output and revised gearing that seems to suit the MCS much better than the initial set-up on the 02-04s. The ’05-’06 models are commonly looked at the ones to get in the MINI community if you have a choice.

I too, enjoy inmensely my R53 ’05 MCS with 19,200 absolutely troublefree miles. Love my car and look forward to many more years of fun and reliable motoring.

The R56 appears to be a terrific car. There are aspects of the new model that I like and others that I am awaiting to “test for my self” once the cars become available next year.

However, I am not going to jump in the “first year” bandwagon again. Although our 2002 MC CVT has been extremely reliable (40K miles and counting) we did have some teething initial quality issues, specially with the engine ECU software. I do not care to do Beta testing for MINI all over again.

But the R56 is definetely in our future, more specifically, the R55 Clubman for which we sadly will have to wait another 15 months. Hopefully by then whatever issues the R56 will have in its first year will be taken care of by ’08.

Last but not least, I am getting a little irritated with all the bashing from the press and others about the bullet proof 1.6L TRITEC engine. The new PSA engine looks good on paper and I really hope it will be as solid and reliable as the Chrysler unit of the MK1 cars. This PSA engine has HUGE shoes to fill. I love the TRITEC engine and ticks like the finest Swiss watch day in and day out.

Somehow I doubt that very much………and if it were true, why would the 02-04 not be every much a “classic” as an 05 or 06?

I’m looking forward to driving an 07. Better gas mileage and more HP and torque, more comfortable seats, a telescoping steering wheel, 6-speed on the MC, more legroom, a sunroof that opens in the rear, a better ride without giving up the go-kart handling, etc., all sound good to me…I’m ready to more on up to an 07.

Here’s how it will happen. Twenty years from now, a certain number of balding, overweight men will seek to recapture their youth with the car they had so much fun with during their 20′s and 30′s. Now flushed with money from their successful careers, they spare no expense to seek out the ones in best condition (those without rusted door sills).

So, Gabe, you never did say which are the most comfy seats.

Utah was all too happy to help me though. (sighs at the thought at being MINI-less)