I have been thinking of trading in my 07 MCS, and wanted some input into a good Mini upgrade. I definitely want to stay with Mini, just trying to figure out how big I should go....if upsize at all. Also thinking of getting a convertible, but can't upsize doing that. With that said, why would I or would I not want a Countryman? I do like the response of an S, so can't do a Justa. The room of my MCS has been plenty over the last year plus, but also selling my Tahoe....thus the reason for possible upsizing the Mini. Seems kind of weird to go back in years, ie an R53 vs an R56.....or am I wrong in my thinking. But, I will NOT buy another R56. Love the turbo though!! I know kind of bouncing around a bit.... Sorry!!!! Thanks for the input. Just really looking for the pros, the cons of your favorites and least favorites.
Based on your critiera of going bigger that rules the Cooper out, and the Clubman, Countryman, and Paceman in.. I don' think of any of the MINIs as BIG. Granted some are bigger then others but if you think you need alot more space then a Cooper for me personally I'd go with something other then a MINI. Sure the others are alittle bigger and the Countryman looks alot bigger but while you will gain space it's not a ton more.. Could always buy a used R53 as a FUN car, and then buy a used small SUV of some sort.. Not sure what you dislike enough to not buy another R56 as they all use the same engine. unless you wait till the next Gen engine to show up..
Thank you for the input so far, and just to clarify..... I just don't want a N14 engine. I do have a good SUV, but putting that up for sale. Have to many cars. What are the pros/cons of the Paceman, Countryman and Clubman? Are they as fun to drive as my current R56?
I would think the clubman would be almost the same as it is not much bigger. Theother two will be top heavy compared.. but they have the All4 option.. I've been wanting to see someone take the All4 S Paceman and lower it alittle and see how it handles, might be a cool ride and fit both your needs, alittle more space, and yet FUN to drive..
Well after the discussions and my test drives of many of the models....here she is....my upgrade! 2012 MCS, certified with a 100,000 mile warrantee!!!! Pics to follow.
Funny you ask, we did exactly what you are thinking of doing, two months ago and haven't regretted it one bit. The wife had a 09 MCS, was coming out of warranty, no way were we keeping it without one, so, decide to sell hers and look for an older Mini, since I already had one, why not two? So, got on autotrader and found her new used car, a 06 JCW convertible :cornut: Oh and we made $4k of the deal :cornut: Just do it, go for the older MCS, even a convertible, we love it :biggrin5:
I did, kind of surprising but I just love the car. It's Chili Red, white top with Recarro seats. And only 3400 miles!!!!!! Guess the OCC I ordered will still come in handy.
Sounds nice Dont get me wrong, we really liked her R56, just didn't want to deal with the possible issues with it. I think the 2012's have the "refresh" motor? Hope it's better than the outgoing motor