Hello, all -- I made a comment on here earlier and realized that it was my first ever post, so ... Long time lurker. I just pick up my second MINI. First was a 2006 Cooper S JCW. October production that came stock with the larger, R56 wheel bolts. Space Blue Metallic/ Silver combo on 18" R105s. A blast to drive, but after 4 years of ownership my aftermarket warranty was about to run out. I traded it in for a Silver White/ Black Clubman S (2013). I've only had it for a couple of weeks now, so I've been trolling boards that I had not been on as much after my initial hunt for an R53. I'm working to tint the windows and replace the shift knob as a start (my Whalens won't fit, and the adaptor will not come out -- long story). Long post, but I wanted to say 'hi'. I'll work to get a couple of pictures up over the next couple of days.
As an owner of a quality R53, how long does it take to fall in love with a second gen MINI? I do like my car very much, but I am wondering if there is some sort of attachment that I can get to make the car whine like it should. It also doesn't pop and crackle so much that people stop and look. At the end, I do really like the car. I test drove a number of others (and my wife is on her second GTI) -- I don't think anyone makes a car like the R53 anymore.
My wife is getting tired of my high pitch screaming when on the gas followed by farting noises as I slow down. An aftermarket intake may be good for my marriage.