I have a 2006 R-53 with the 6 speed getrag. Absolutely love the car. It is a blast to drive, any time any place.
Mods; I've done most of the external ones available.
1. Dinan CAI - really nice quality piece, looks factory
2. M-7 strut bar - removed every winter as this car is a daily driver. you can feel a difference when it goes back on in the spring.
3. Alta 17% - biggest bang for the buck I've ever seen automotively.
4. 2% overdrive crank pulley - see # 3 and add just a little more
5. H&R springs - cause no one wants to feel like their driving their suv
6. +0 215 45 17 currently in Michelin Pilot Sport A/S flavor
7. Remove the rear seat - everyone knows the R53 is just a 2 seater anyways
8. Dice iPod adapter - I once drove from Western MA to Key West and back and never heard the same tune twice.
9. Garmin Nuvi - cause real men don't ask directions
10 Me - after years of 911 only, I guess I could be call a defector.
Problems experienced since new.
1. Clutch failure at 19K - Service manager told me it was my driving. Yeah right.
Car now has 45K with no further problems so you do the math.
2. Electric power steering failure. Supposedly the MINI's Achilles heel. My first one made 30K before screaming it's bloody head off
3. Excessive loss of time - in gas stations listening to other patrons tell you about their Aunt Mable owing one and how great it is...
Well duh! I do own one :-)
4. Permanent right arm bruising - from GF's distaste for that last maneuver.
Feel free to PM if you gotta know more.
Ciao, spaceblue
P.S. photo is before H&R's
