R52 MINI Convertible Production Ending

Who came up with the timing on this one? So they’ll be left without a convertable for a good couple of months….

I guess they don’t want any R52s around when the newer one comes on line….

Matt

I had a 2003 MCS, and loved it. I do not like the new MINIs with their turbos and smoothness. That’s why I bought (arrives soon and now aboard Western Highway) my 2008 MCS convertible – I love the Tritec with its supercharger whine, and the car’s good looks – I think it will become a classic and hold a lot of value 20 years from now.

My JCW/MCS arrives in a couple weeks. The only way I’ll EVER part with it will be if the third generation Mini gets it right.

This thing should hold it’s value nicely.

Sic transit gloria mundi. A wonderful run of success.

A fond farewell to the last variation good looking MINI. I’m with Mowse – no new MINI for me until they fix the current one. I cringe every time I get a newer MINI as a service loaner.

Also, with a convertible that awful speedo and center stack is even more visible. Yuck!

sad sad

here’s to the original new mini. the best =P

E Plurbis Unum = R52/53 4ever

R52 was the first new MINI model where a bunch of us actually made a trek to the dealership to see on it’s national “tour.” Great fun!!! I never needed a drop top myself, but that didn’t stop me from being a big fan. I look forward to the next iteration.

And if you’re wondering, yes that was the webmaster, Gabe Bridger. ;P

and me!

(last of the R5x architecture)

?? I understand what you are trying to say, but what about R56, R55, R57, R58? I’d try and find a different wording, because this just doesn’t make sense :)

Maybe “last of the R50-based cars”?

I think BMW needs to rethink the direction they are taking the MINI. The key word here is “MINI” not MAXI-4Wheel-Stationwagen. What the R50/R53/R52 represent to me is a 1970′s muscle car hidden inside in a small sportscar frame with plenty of additude to boot. These models I believe will hold their value for quite some time because owners like myself will purchase them used when the time comes to buy another. Thank You Frank for giving me the opportunity to become a very proud owner of an R52.

Frank, best wishes in your next career move. I am sure there are many automakers right now that look forward to your experience, vision, integrity and impressive design portfolio.

DB, Todd and Gabe: I also second the suggestion for a “Live” WRR interview with Frank. That would make for a truly memorable podcast.

Quite a change from a LS430 to a MINI! But filling up that V8 Lexus must have gotten pretty old, I bet.

I will miss the Tritec. The new peugeut turbo engine sucks.

Look what BMW made this poor bunny do.

(Click on my name)

We loved our R52, even driving with the top down from Cleveland OH back to DC two years ago this weekend (Memorial Day trip). The only complaint we had with it was the flexible chassis….the windshield header would vibrate…you could see it in the rear-view mirror. I didn’t notice it until I got my own R53 and then drove the wife’s car.

Since 2001, my dream was the Frank’stephenson mini…a long wait for the R56 and finally say…”What have they done to the mini design :(, why all cars tend to be massive, botox like as all german cars”. Quickly, i have to buy an R53 before they…too late… no more R53. And one day (dec.2007) i saw a picture (never see it for real !) of THE mini cooper S Sidewalk sparkling silver.Stunning, state of the art, incredible… i didn’t miss the last chance to heard the supercharger,and drive this fabulous R52. Order april 1st, receive 6 months later. My dream come’s true, thank’s Mr Stephenson, thank’s a lot. I always think that’s sidewalk have been created by somes people at bmw…in “memory” of Franck Stephenson ;)