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Buying a 2007 MCS: The Order

Last week I announced that I was selling my 2005 MCS and buying an 2007. This week, my ‘05 MCS was officially sold and the order went in for my new R56. There was a slight delay as I refined my specification a bit but I’m happy to say that everything is now a go. But before I go on about the various choices I’ve made, I need to thank all (almost 100) of you who gave me some great ideas for ordering my 2007 MCS. Seeing all that feedback did help me make a couple tough decisions I had been wavering on. But more on that later.

I put my order in a few days later than anticipated but my MA (and good friend) David Olenick was still able to get me a week 23 (early June) build slot. That should be perfect timing considering my MINI United schedule and that I’ll just be getting in the country a week or so earlier than the car will be arriving.

So let’s take a look at what I chose. As I mentioned before, the car had to be black. But what I didn’t mention is that Pepper White was my first choice. However after some consultation with some close friends, I realized that black just makes more sense for me. So with that out of the way, I present you the specs. I’ll go through each one and give a quick reason why I chose it:

Exterior

Astro Black Body Color w/Body Color Roof/Mirrors $450 – Yeah, it’s not actually black. But the truth is it’ll be a nice change from th Jet Black MCS I currently own. And of course this continues my tradition of sinister all body color MINIs.

White Turn Signals $100 – it’s tough to pay $100 for something that is white rather than yellow but… they do look fantastic on a black car.

Packages

Premium Package $1,400 (Automatic AC, Dual Pane Panoramic Sunroof, On-Board Computer, 3-Spoke w/Cruise and Multifunction, Leather Sport Wheel w/Multifunction) – Really a must have for me. The sunroof, while heavy, is a high point of the interior for me.

Sport Package $1,400 (Dynamic Stability Control, Front Fog Lamps, Xenon Headlamps w/Power Wash, 17″ Crown-Spoke (all-season), No Bonnet Stripes) – I thought about not getting the package but at the end of the day it just makes sense. If you’re wondering, yes the 17″ Crown Spoke w/all-seasons will be my winter wheels and tires. My 18″ OZ Ultraleggeras are coming over from my current 2005 MCS.

Performance

Sport Suspension $500 – Normally this would have been a no-brainer similar to LSD. However I’ll be going another route that makes this $500 option reduntant. More on that in the days ahead.

Front Fog Lamps STD

Rear Fog Lamp $100 – An essential safety feature in my book.

Limited Slip Differential $500 – If you ever plan on driving your car aggressively on the track or on a deserted road, you need limited slip.

6-Speed Getrag Manual STD – See above.

Power-fold Heated Mirrors $300 – This is the reason I’m not getting the cold weather package. And it’s also sort of a long story. I’ve been critical of MINI USA not offering power folding mirrors for years. Critical as in I’ve told them for years I wanted to buy them. And for their part I’ve been offered a set for my R53 in the past. However that did little to resolve the lack of a factory option in the US. So yes, I feel a little obligated to actually get them with this latest MINI.

Interior

Sport Seats STD

Heated Front Seats $270 – I’ve found this an essential option for a happy marriage.

Chrome Line Interior $200 – Since I’m going with the classic look in the cabin, I felt chrome was mandatory. Even though I’m well aware that this is probably the single most marked-up option in the entire range. Except for maybe those white lights I’m getting.

On-Board Computer STD

Bluetooth $600 – Yes this is the cost of five really nice bluetooth headsets. But once you actually see it in action and use the address book integration available with the Nav system, it’s hard to not come away impressed. The only issue (and it was potentially a big issue for me) is the mandatory armrest. My arm simply doesn’t fit in between the shifter and the armrest. And having the armrest in the up position 100% of the time is not the kind of aesthetically pleasing solution I’d be willing to live with. Luckily it only take a few screws and it’ll be in my bin ‘o’ MINI parts in the corner of my garage along with my ‘05 US spec cup-holder.

6-spkr AM/FM CD Player STD – Yes, I’m not getting the Hi-Fi upgrade. Nor do I care for satellite or HD radio. I simply don’t drive enough to take advantage of it. And when I do, I have an iPod (soon to be an iPhone) full of music to keep me going.

Leather: Lounge Carbon Black w/Cream White Piping $1,900 – I’m not one to typically spend unnecessary cash on seat coverings. But my Lord, these are sweet. The black and white piping is simply stunning in an otherwise black car. They will surely be a focal point of the interior. I had planned on going with Redwood Red Lounge Leather but the thought of an entire white/black look was too much to pass-up.

Color-Line: Cream White INC – Yes you heard that right. Adding more white to the interior, the color-line will also help make the center navigation unit look even more pronounced as it naturally leads your eyes to the center of the car. And this combination will surely set my car apart from the crowd.

Anthracite Headliner $200 – Another mandatory with an all black car. It also adds more visual drama to the interior considering the white and black contrast elsewhere.

Interior Surface Piano Black $200 – Again this helps with the black/white theme by adding yet another material to the mix. However this trim also has the ability add quite a bit of depth when waxed.

Computer Nav. System $2,100 – I’m a sucker for tech and I’m a sucker for cool. The new navigation unit is both incredible looking and incredibly functional. But let me back up a bit. BMW’s new electronics system in the 1 Series, 3 Series and MINI are really best used with a large screen. Using the radio to interface (in non-Nav cars) can be a frustrating experience at best. The Nav liberates the system and allows it to become the focal point it needs to be considering the functionality is houses. With the joy-stick controller, the system is intuitive and very full featured with traffic, optional bluetooth and PDC integration. And don’t forget the optional yet exceptional iPod integration available as a dealer or VPC accessory.

Total (MSRP): $30,970

Notable ordering exceptions: I actually was more impressed with the HiFi stereo option than I remembered at the press launch last February. However, since I don’t consider my car as the ultimate place to listen to music (I tend to do that at home with my Grados or Sure EC3s) I skipped it. Satellite radio and HD radio are also two other options (all part of the Audio package) that I didn’t have any interest in. Since I only listen to one radio station and my iPod (soon to be iPhone) pretty much exclusively, I don’t see a need for the added expense.

Also not here is the ever popular convenience package. While I love the idea of keyless operation and bluetooth, the other options I could do with out. And since I’m getting the bluetooth a la carte (and ditching the armrest) I see no need for the other luxuries.

Update: The rumors are true, I bit the bullet and got the HiFi stereo. It just sounded to goog to pass up.

Accessories

Later this week I’m going to talk specifically about the accessories, what I’ll be ordering from MINI and why. So consider this just the tip of the ice-burg. And of course if you think those crown-spoke wheels with all-season tires are staying on the car, think again. I’ll be moving my OZ Ultraleggeras over the minute I drive it into my garage. I’ll also be trying a new set of tires in a larger size than the R53 would allow.

Again a huge thanks to my good friend and MA David who has been stellar to work with as usual.

I’ll have plenty more on the “youification” of my new R56 in the days ahead…

[ Full Spec List PDF ] MINIUSA.com

Update: you can check out my accessor plans (including all sorts of JCW goodies) below:

[ Buying a 2007 MCS: The Accessories ] MotoringFile

Written By: Gabe
Minspeed.net

64 Comments

drew May 22nd, 2007 Link Reply to this comment

right. on. gabe!

Jon May 22nd, 2007 Link Reply to this comment

Congrats Gabe for taking the dive

Wraith May 22nd, 2007 Link Reply to this comment

congrats on the ordering gabe! can’t wait to read more about it

Radley May 22nd, 2007 Link Reply to this comment

Great spec Gabe! I look forward to seeing your new baby when it comes. Sounds like its gonna look amazing. With your explanation you helped me think about what I will need and actually use when I finalize my spec. Thanks.

rkw May 22nd, 2007 Link Reply to this comment
Power-fold Heated Mirrors $300 – This is the reason I’m not getting the cold weather package.

Someone on NAM posted that the configurator doesn’t allow you to select both of them but the dealer’s system does, and he has a car on order with both of them specified.

Color-Line: Cream White [...snip...] this combination will surely set my car apart from the crowd.

Of course, now everybody is going to copy you.

Dimitri May 22nd, 2007 Link Reply to this comment

Congrats, Gabe!!

All good choices, I like the black and white theme.

One thing though, I realy do think that the HiFi is worth the extra money.

See you at MINI United.

Gary May 26th, 2007 Link Reply to this comment

Very nice Gabe… Congrats!… Interesting that you thought of Pepper White first, but I’m a big fan of Astro Black as well…

I agree with your ‘Notable ordering exceptions’… The iPod/iPhone certainly is more interesting than having a choice of radio stations… I certainly missed my iPod interface when I was in the mountains…

Looking forward to MINI United!…

Michael May 26th, 2007 Link Reply to this comment

No Chrome Line Exterior?

kcollins May 26th, 2007 Link Reply to this comment

Congrats and welcome to the R56 fold! I think you’ve made a fine choice with your selection and should be nothing short of stunning!

Pedro May 26th, 2007 Link Reply to this comment

Congrats Gabe! Looks like a sweet ride. Hopefully the sport suspension substitution you are thinking about will be something that will lower that bad boy :).

gokartride May 26th, 2007 Link Reply to this comment

Very impressive!!!

Jon May 26th, 2007 Link Reply to this comment

Going to be a sweet ride for sure. I assume Gabe is going for the soon to be annouced JCW suspension. Kinda suprised you didn’t go for the chrome line exterior Gabe, though 31k was probably enough ;).

Whats your official delievery date now?

Revhed May 26th, 2007 Link Reply to this comment

So Gabe, why did you initially go for Pepper White? Pepper White with Black Roof is a great combo in my opinion.

SB May 26th, 2007 Link Reply to this comment

Get it right, Gabe. It’s not Astro Black. It’s British Racing Black. Like the BRG not being a true British Racing Green but more of a Bavarian Racing Green. AB is not a true black. ;)

msh441 May 27th, 2007 Link Reply to this comment

Cool! The only thing I don’t necessarily agree with is the decision NOT to get the Hi-Fi. The R56 stereo is not easily upgraded (particularly the head unit), should you decide to do it later. iPod or not, it all sounds better through the Hi-Fi.

Jon May 27th, 2007 Link Reply to this comment

Never have understood the idea of having a high end stereo in a car, to me high quality music should be someplace where there isn’t a growling engine and ambient road noise. I am with Gabe on that, leave the quality sound systems at home. I could have had the nicest system around but that would make no sense, kinda like parking my home system in the middle of the highway and trying to enjoy it. Then again maybe thats just me. :)

MINI Fireman May 27th, 2007 Link Reply to this comment
Sport Suspension $500 – Normally this would have been a no-brainer similar to LSD. However I’ll be going another route that makes this $500 option reduntant. More on that in the days ahead.
MINI Fireman May 27th, 2007 Link Reply to this comment

Let’s try my comment again:

Thumbs up!

r.burns May 27th, 2007 Link Reply to this comment

Why don’t you choose the Flame spoke alloys, for the same price (in Europe) ?

And in Europe, you can get Exterior Chrome only for front and rear bumpers (not on mirrors), it’s better looking with chrome on the bumpers ;)

Zane May 27th, 2007 Link Reply to this comment

Hey Gabe, Congrats! As I had posted earlier, I shall reserve judgment on the interior until you post some snaps from MINI Utd. Anyhow, there are a couple of things you might want to look at: 1. The total price in the first image doesn’t exactly match with your total. 2. Your PDF spec list isn’t accessible.

Btw, have you found an acceptable substitute for the factory armrest?

gz May 27th, 2007 Link Reply to this comment

Virtually my exact specs to be until I was seduced by redwood LL. Slap some black bonet stipes on to complement the white piping on the seats. Those will set you apart and are classy/sporty/unique. I notice JCW was not mentioned. Is there a delay in the stage one or are they not taking orders yet? Have you changed your mind on the aereola kit?

Simon May 27th, 2007 Link Reply to this comment

I thought he would like the chrome line exterior too. But I guess if your gonna put chrome somewhere, put it where you spend 99% of the time you’re with your car which is in it. The nav system renforces the retro 60’s meets modern tech feel where as the normal speedo doesn’t really do that.

Ian C. May 27th, 2007 Link Reply to this comment

I think convenience opening is a must too – Margarets new BMW has it and omitting the key is a fabulous feature :)

Gabe May 27th, 2007 Link Reply to this comment
  1. The total price in the first image doesn’t exactly match with your total.

Sorry – old pic from an earlier spec.

  1. Your PDF spec list isn’t accessible.

It should be now.

Btw, have you found an acceptable substitute for the factory armrest?

Yes – no armrest ;) I’ve always been a big “hands on the wheel” at all times guy so I have little use for an armrest other than long road trips.

I notice JCW was not mentioned. Is there a delay in the stage one or are they not taking orders yet? Have you changed your mind on the aereola kit?

I’ll talk about that next week – you’ll like the news.

I thought he would like the chrome line exterior too. But I guess if your gonna put chrome somewhere

I love the exterior chrome line but one of my accessories makes it redundant.

I think convenience opening is a must too – Margarets new BMW has it and omitting the key is a fabulous feature :)

I’m sure it is but I must draw the line somewhere :)

Why don’t you choose the Flame spoke alloys, for the same price (in Europe) ?

Todd and DB would kill me but if they were available as a no-cost in the US I would. They’re not unfortunately. But remember I’ll only have the Crown-spokes on the car for a few of the winter months.

ejkd May 27th, 2007 Link Reply to this comment

what can I say Gabe; big “congrats” and I love your selection especially your interior. I am jealous :)

dickdavid May 27th, 2007 Link Reply to this comment

Nice set-up, Gabe. June is turning out to be an awesome month for you.

Coruscation May 27th, 2007 Link Reply to this comment

The NYT just ran a story on buying small cars to save money (gas $ money) and reported against the Cooper:

“From a dollars-and-cents point of view, it doesn’t make sense,” said Jesse Toprak, director of industry analysis for Edmunds.com, a Web site that offers car-buying advice. “There’s no way you’re going to drive it enough to justify the purchase, so it’s more of a psychological decision.”

That is particularly true for premium models, like the Mini Cooper, as well as cars in Toyota’s Scion lineup. When decked out with options like aluminum wheel covers and leather seats, their prices can climb well above $20,000, the same as a family sedan or a midsize S.U.V.

http://www.nytimes.com/2007/05/26/business/26small.html?hp

But your ‘07 will be so much more fun than an SUV.

Coruscation May 27th, 2007 Link Reply to this comment

Should used preview…

Ketan May 27th, 2007 Link Reply to this comment

You didn’t get the JCW Aero kit?

Edge May 27th, 2007 Link Reply to this comment
I’ve been critical of MINI USA not offering power folding mirrors for years. Critical as in I’ve told them for years I wanted to buy them. And for their part I’ve been offered a set for my R53 in the past. However that did little to resolve the lack of a factory option in the US.

OK Gabe… you’ve got to elaborate on being offered a set of PFMs for your R53… OEM or aftermarket? If OEM, how is it possible? What do -I- have to do to get them (OEM) on my MINI?

Details! :)

Gabe May 27th, 2007 Link Reply to this comment

You didn’t get the JCW Aero kit?

The accessories list is coming this week…

OK Gabe… you’ve got to elaborate on being offered a set of PFMs for your R53… OEM or aftermarket?

OEM.

Vanwall May 27th, 2007 Link Reply to this comment

Nice ride, Gabe! I hope you get it drive it enough to savor all the options to the max. Heated seats are now a must, and for the same reason as yours! Like the color, too, and the black with white piping is a nice retro-touch. I agree with the white turn signals, but only if it includes the fronts to get rid of the wall-eyed look – too many other cars have that already. Looking good, so far, fingers crossed.

Doug May 27th, 2007 Link Reply to this comment

Thanks for sharing your list with us. You have more extras than I expected for a performance-minded driver. (BT, nav, chrome line int., lounge carbon).

Suji May 27th, 2007 Link Reply to this comment

Love the color ;)

Lucien May 27th, 2007 Link Reply to this comment

That’s great that you can get it built that quick.. when I ordered my Mini Cooper S Convertible (2005) it took a year to get an built slot.. or is just the Portland, Oregon dealership?

veggivet May 27th, 2007 Link Reply to this comment

This will be one great-looking car. Congrats!! Can’t wait to see what your accessories list includes.

chakaluka May 27th, 2007 Link Reply to this comment
And of course this continues my tradition of sinister all body color MINIs.

But Gabe, wasn’t your first car was Indi Blue with a white roof and mirrors? I had the same scheme on my first Cooper. Very nice, but not what I would call sinister (or all body color).

Brendan May 27th, 2007 Link Reply to this comment

Nice spec. I’m looking forward to hearing about the suspension.

Jayomatic May 27th, 2007 Link Reply to this comment

Be sure to take some video of the Nav system working. I’ve been searching everywhere for some video examples of the interface and how it all works.

Gabe May 27th, 2007 Link Reply to this comment

But Gabe, wasn’t your first car was Indi Blue with a white roof and mirrors?

You’re right. I guess the sinsister tradition started in 2005 :)

Zane May 28th, 2007 Link Reply to this comment

Jayomatic: anzqtboy has posted two videos on youtube. Search for the nav review thread on NAM. Cheers!

Ted May 28th, 2007 Link Reply to this comment

The more things change the more thay stay the same… The smile keeps getting bigger…..MINI after MINI… Happy Motoring!!!!!

Paul and Naomi May 28th, 2007 Link Reply to this comment

Congrats to Gabe! The NAV is worth every penny. Here’s my review along with the videos:

Text to link

Drew K May 28th, 2007 Link Reply to this comment

I just got my R56 2 weeks ago .. pretty much the same config accept i got the sound package, lumbar seats, and cold weather instead of Nav (i like getting lost, means i get to drive my Mini for longer).

I must say, the Astro black was a surprise. Has a lot of blue in it from the metallic finish… and looks pretty slick in the sun light.

Also, the iPod adapter in the new ‘07 models is SLICK!! does not go in the glove compartment anymore. Hidden in the passenger side panel right above the glove button (the chrome thing)

Eliot May 28th, 2007 Link Reply to this comment

Nice Spec Gabe. Interior very similar to mine. Will you be selling the Garmin Nuvi 660 now? I might be interested.

CooperS-lightningblue May 28th, 2007 Link Reply to this comment

Congrats on the ordering gabe! I think it is going to be a very nice MINI and I’m looking forward to see it on MINI United!

MotoringFile » Archive » White Roof Radio #160 May 28th, 2007 Link Reply to this comment

[...] do spend some time talking about Gabe’s spec and the parting out of his R53. He is going to be selling his leather dash too, but you have to be [...]

CM May 28th, 2007 Link Reply to this comment

Sounds nice, but here’s where you lose me.

$32k for a non- JCW, non-HK, non-sport suspension MCS.

Yes I know the Mini is more than “just a car.”

But $32k? I’ve spent a lot of time with the car and I don’t get it for that kind of money. Interior materials aren’t that great, handling is nice, but now a lot of other cars can match or exceed it.

Believe me, I undertstand brand value, image, premiumness, etc (I work for Maserati and Ferrari)..

But this is out of hand…

Gabe May 28th, 2007 Link Reply to this comment

Will you be selling the Garmin Nuvi 660 now?

Nope – it will now be a permanent fixture in the other car.

Doug May 28th, 2007 Link Reply to this comment
Believe me, I undertstand brand value, image, premiumness, etc (I work for Maserati and Ferrari).. But this is out of hand…

I think the problem is more about the price of new cars in general, than about MINI in particular. For example, a Jetta GLI is $32k with the Gabe’s spec.

Also, the cars that supposedly meet or exceed the MINI performance at the cheaper price are, let’s face it, Japanese rebadges. They don’t have that premium feel that someone enamored with MINI is going to be happy with.

Gabe’s spec is pretty lux but in a few years it’ll be a $35k car, with the way the car market is rising in general. I’m pretty jealous of his ride.

Only one thing: if you’re driving enough to use a NAV, aren’t you driving enough to use the HK sound system? The extra 4 speakers for $500… it seems like a good deal to me. To each his own :)

OttoMannS May 29th, 2007 Link Reply to this comment

$1,900 buys me a nice German made Shilling leather sofa for my living room.

Greg May 29th, 2007 Link Reply to this comment

Is the premium sound just 4 more speakers or is there a boost in watts as well? I’m all about getting the best sound available as well. If you listen to tunes while driving why not?

CM May 30th, 2007 Link Reply to this comment

Don’t get me wrong, I love the car and his spec. It’s still high on my list for my next car.

I just can’t wrap my head around $32k for non-JCW MCS.

Not much of a Jetta fan, but it does have a nicer, more premium interior, more power, awesome seats and steering wheel, bigger wheels and tires, etc…

But of course it’s not a Mini…

Gabe May 30th, 2007 Link Reply to this comment

I just can’t wrap my head around $32k for non-JCW MCS.

Well it’s technically $31k. And yes, it’ll have JCW kit – bringing the total to around $33k. But I understand what you’re saying and would have agreed a couple years ago. As I said in a previous story about my choice, there are some incredible option out there for this momey on the (slightly) used market. But at the end of the day a want a MINI. I’ve already got a 3 Series in the garage and I don’t need anything more extreme. This fits both my wants and needs perfectly for the money.

MINIBro May 30th, 2007 Link Reply to this comment

Hey Gabe! Great selection of options for your car. The center armrest thing. While I agree with you it does house a button that works with certain phones to allow you to switch from the car phone system back to the handset. Are you sure you can remove it and not have a problem? That button unfortunately doesn’t work with my phone but I’m not sure if there is a way you can remove the armrest and not conflict with the wire running through the armrest. You may want to check that out!

Gabe May 30th, 2007 Link Reply to this comment

Are you sure you can remove it and not have a problem? That button unfortunately doesn’t work with my phone but I’m not sure if there is a way you can remove the armrest and not conflict with the wire running through the armrest.

Positive – I’ve already taken a close look at an R56 with t installed. The armrest is easily removed and you can then take out the wire and either (A) snipe and cap it or (B) just stuff it in the center console.

Doug May 30th, 2007 Link Reply to this comment

Gabe,

I noticed you pulled your follow-up accessories story. Are you going to repost?

Gabe May 30th, 2007 Link Reply to this comment

Wasn’t suppose to go live until tomorrow.

miniviper May 31st, 2007 Link Reply to this comment

Gabe, you might have issues trying to fit wheels to your 07 that previously fit your 05. From Sept. 06 on MINI switched to new lugbolts and hubs. See MC2 issue no. 8 pg. 69 for some enlightenment. Might be helpful to post this somewhere for everyone to see so they don’t buy used or possibly new wheels that don’t fit. MINIVIPER

Gabe May 31st, 2007 Link Reply to this comment

Yes I’m very aware of the change. In fact Todd broke the story on MF last summer. But no worries – already tested it. The issue doesn’t relate to most aftermartket wheels like OZs.

MotoringFile » Archive » Buying a 2007 MCS: The Accessories Jun 1st, 2007 Link Reply to this comment

[...] Buying a 2007 MCS: The Order ] MotoringFile.com [...]

MotoringFile » Archive » Dissecting the R56’s Character Flaws Jun 4th, 2007 Link Reply to this comment

[...] of these issues would keep me from buying the new MINI. In fact I can verify they haven’t has my order went in a couple weeks ago. However spending a bit more time in the car gave me a chance to wrap my [...]

Seto Jun 28th, 2007 Link Reply to this comment

Gabe I ordered my new mini about the same time as you. I was so excited to read you went with the creme white color line. I ordered the same seats as you and was uncertain about the color line but I took a leap of faith. I also got the anthracite headliner and the nav. We have almost the same interior. I have one question for you. My husband wants the JCW brake kit. I can’t find any info on it and its about $2000 installed. What are your thoughts on it?

Gabe Jun 28th, 2007 Link Reply to this comment

First off – congrats! I spoke with Marcus Syring (main exterior designer of the R56 and interior designer of the R50) over the weekend and found out that this color spec is exactly what he would order if he was buying a MINI today!

The nice thing about the new MINI is that it basically comes with the JCW brakes. They are identical to the JCW brakes in every way except color. Therefore I’d highly recommend not getting the JCW brakes on the R56.

M7 Tuning

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» Behind the Wheel of the 2007 MINI
» MINI Concept Tokyo - In Detail
» MINI Concept Frankfurt - In Detail
» Driven: The Nürburgring Nordschleife
» MINI Wins at Targa Newfoundland
» 2006 JCW Accessories
» US Market Color Changes for 2006
» Getrag's All Wheel Drive MINI In Depth
» BMW/MINI to Buy JCW?
» Official 2006 MINIUSA Pricing
» Special Editions/Package for 2006
» Checkmate Options Package (USA)
» JCW Direct From to the Factory in '06
» Tips on How to Sell Your MINI
» 2006 Model Year Timeline
» MINI's 2006 Color Changes
» Next Generation MINI Revealed
» Official MINI Armrest Revealed
» MotoringFile Review: MCS Auto

2004
» Details on the MCS Limited Slip Dif
» MotoringFile 2004 Holiday Gift Guide
» Getrag Tests All-Wheel Drive MINI
» Q&A on the OutMotoring ARC Armrest
» 2005 Chicago Auto Show / Gallery
» MINI USA's JCW GP Delivery Program
» 2005 MINI Changes
» The Cabrio In Depth / Gallery
» Special Edition MC40 / Gallery
» MINI Plant Tour Review
» Hood Rub Service Bulletin
» 2004 Chicago Auto Show / Gallery

2003
» MINI Accessory Additions for 2004
» CVT Paddles Retrofit
» 2005 MINI Spotted
» Rear Fogs Almost Here
» New Prince Engine Caught Testing
» MINI Releases Hood Rub Bulletin
» MINI_Motion Launched
» MINI Conquers Snow and Ice
» MINI One D Announced
» MINI Named North American Car of the Year
Otto's MINI
Black Wow

MotoringFile Downloads

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Morristown MINI Auctions
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MF NewsRoom

MotoringFile Buyers Guides

R50 ('02-'06 MC) Buyers Guide
R53 ('02-'06 MCS) Buyers Guide

MotoringFile Reviews

Auto Reviews:
'09 Cooper S Convertible
'09 JCW Coupe
'09 JCW Clubman
JCW Stage I vs JCW Stage II
'08 Clubman S (Auto)
1st Drive: '08 MINI Clubman
Comparison: '08 BMW 135i
'06 R53 MCS vs '07 R56 MCS
'07 R56 JCW (Stage 1)
'07 MINI Cooper S Long Term
'07 BMW Z4 M Coupe
'07 MINI Cooper & Cooper S
Audio: '07 MC/MCS at the Track
'06 JCW GP Long term
Reader Review: JCW GP
'06 JCW Cooper S Long Term
Comparison: '06 Lotus Elise
Comparison: '06 Mazda MX5
Comparison: '06 UK Focus ST
Comparison: '06 Civic Si
Comparison: '04 TVR T350
Comparison: '06 Nissan 350z
Comparison: '06 VW GTI w/DSG
Podcast: Cooper S Auto
Podcast: BMW 325i
Podcast: JCW MC Soundkit
'04 JCW MINI Cooper Tuning Kit
'05 MCS: One Month Review
'05 MCS Auto
'05 JCW S 1st Drive
'05 MINI Cooper
'05 MCS Conv. Long Term
'05 MINI Cooper S
'05 MCS Cabrio 1st Drive
'04 JCW MCS First Drive
'04 MC w/JCW Tuning Kit
BMW M3 SMG Vs. MCS
'04 MINI Cooper CVT
'02 MCS 3 year Review
Autocrossing the MINI Range

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Performance Accessories:
R56 JCW Engine Kit
R56 JCW Suspension (Long-Term)
R56 JCW Suspension (Track)
R56 JCW Suspension (Street)
R53 Craven Speed Short Shifter
R53 M7 Understrut System
Kumho Ecsta SPT Tires
R53 M7 Strut Tower Plates
R53 JCW Alcantara Wheel
R53 JCW Brake Kit
R53 Webb 15% Pulley
R53 Helix MCSa 15% Pulley
R53 H-Sport 19mm Sway Bar
R53 MCS Supersprint Exhaust
Podcast: R53 MCS SS Exhaust
R53 JCW Cold Air Intake
Reader Rev.: R53 JCW Brakes
R50 Supersprint Exhaust
R50 Remus Exhaust
R50 Promini Intake
R50 Remus Dual Exhaust
Schroth Harness System
R50 CVT Steering Wheel Paddles

Exterior Accessories:
Miniature's Receiver Hitch
OEM White Tail Lights

Lifestyle Accessories:
MINI_Motion Watch
MINI_Motion Driving Shoe

Audio:
MINI Digital SoundModul
ICE-Link Plus iPod Adapter
Official BMW/iPod adapter
ICE-Link iPod Adapter
Kenwood iPod Interface
Alpine iPod Interface
Harman Kardon Stereo

Interior Accessories:
JCW Alcantara Steering Wheel JCW Leather Dash
MCAW Auto Up Circuit
MINI Rear Camera
MINI Rear Saddle (official)
MINI Rear Cargo Storage Case
Official MINI Rear Saddle Bag
2004 MINI Armrest Reviewed
Mymini Knee Pad
MINI Bluetooth Kit
MINI Video Input
Aftermarket Bluetooth Integration
Ian Cull Auto-up Circuit
Universal Mobile Phone Holder

Offers from the Tirerack
> Special Offers: Save on quality tires with these manufacturer's promotions available from The Tire Rack.
> Gift ideas for $50 or more in The Tire Rack's Automotive Gift Guide.
> Shop for KUMHO tires at The Tire Rack.

MINI Model Number Cheat Sheet:

1st Gen MINI
R50: One & MC Coupe
R52: All 1st Gen MINI Convt.
R53: MCS Coupe
2nd Gen MINI
R55: Clubman
R56: One/MC/MCS Coupe
R57: One/MC/MCS Convt.
R60: MINI SUV