I am a new 2008 MCS 6M Owner. I am now ready to do some mods. :devil: Unfortunately my money won't permit me to do all of them at once. :incazzato: I am curious as to the Best Bang for the Buck Mod. I am definately tinting my windows first. I need a batting order. :cryin: My Mod wish list: Intercooler Springs Strut Brace CAI 18" wheels (Wider offset) Boost Tubes Subwoofer Exhaust Sprint Boost Thanks for your help in Advance AXO
Track Days.... Not only does the MINI get faster since you become a better driver but everything you drive becomes faster since you have invested in yourself. I know Track Days are not for all so...what are you looking for from the MINI, faster, better handling, louder, bling... Having an idea of where you want to go makes it easier for us to help you get there.
I am looking for faster, better handling and looks. No Bling... I plan on some track days, Maybe a school as time permits.
I would stay away from the 18 inch rims, they are heavier than most 17's, which would slow you down. You could go with some light 17's, faster, better handling, then you could also get a set of lowering springs, not to low, better handling and looks.
For the track always take the better handling car over the faster car. Sway bar first Springs Intercooler Boost tubes Tune
This is an opinion so take it as such. Stay away from the CAI if you are looking for performance. A CAI does give you a cool sound but the stock Mini intake is an already great product. RMW has pulled higher numbers on the dyno with stock airboxes than with CAIs. I eventually removed my CAI and boost tubes and now am running the stock box and tubes. (This part is a fact) I lost about 5-10mph on the autobahn with my Alta CAI and gained it back as soon as the stock gear was back on. Back to opinion now, Get the intercooler, get a good set of springs (not to lower it) like my TSW's, a good set of tires, downpipe back exhaust (keep the front cat), and a tune. you will then have your monies worth. I drive mine hard on the autobahn and with the above items, your car will be a beast.
David I have to agree with you about the CAI. I installed an AEM filter directly to my MAF sensor. I immediately noticed the Whooosh from the turbo, I also noticed a reduction in MPG and a little less throttle response. Ihave also read that the boost tubes are basically a cosmetic mod. I plan on re-installing my oem airbox this weekend.
Interesting, as the CAI is an improvement on the R-56 justa, in both response and mpg, but then I don't have a turbo. Jim
CAI on a NA car is completely different situation. On a NA car you most likely will see some improvements. Boosted cars a a different design and a large as the OEM intake is it would be hard to give it more are than it presently pulls. I am not claiming to be the NA/boosted car knowledge master so please don't take it as such. I do however have a 1 hour, 1 way autobahn commute that allows me to test lots of different things in a semi controlled environment.
I just thought it was interesting how what works well for one does not for the other, which would be logical. I get myself in trouble sometimes by following a thread closely, only to realize later they were talking about an "S". Jim
I am pleased with my factory sport suspension option . I'm amazed at the Mini's handling. The handling was an instant deal maker for me when I bought my Mini! I thought about going with springs for a better stance. The Intercooler upgrade for performance will give me a great platform to add more options for more power. Plus it looks awesome peering out of the lower screen.
Think the handling is good now? just wait. Minimally get the full blown rear sway bar. You will not be disappointed.
Agree with TGS91. As good as the handling is now, you can open the friction circle WAY up with the right combination of mods - and it doesn't have to cost that much, either. When I moved out to California four years ago, I hit the local tracks, and the usual comment was, "That thing is FAST. What did you do to the engine?" The answer was, basically nothing. It was all in the suspension, brakes and tires.