I am getting ready to order an 08 Mini.
I want to us it as a daily driver. But I also want to do some autocross. I took a Panoz racing school a few years ago and the first day we did some autocross and it was a blast.
So with that in mind the following are what I am considering for options. Please give your opinions or experiences with any of the following
Mini Cooper S Hardtop.
No sun roof
Sports Package
Which (if either) would give better performance, 17� Crown-Spoke or Web-Spoke rims? Something else?
Cold Weather Package
Convenience Package
Limited Slip Differential
Xenon Headlights w/power Wash
Standard Checker Carbon Cloth seats – seamed like they would be best for autocross
Now here is the entertainment question.
How much better is the 10-Speaker Hi-Fi sound system
I think I want the Satellite Radio – I like in my wife’s Cadillac CTS
Hi-Definition Radio – in SW Oklahoma – how big a deal in next few years?
Computer Nav. System – I like to actually see one in a Mini – Or hear from a Mini owner with one. Kind of expensive and display look like it might be a bit small.
Mud Flaps front and rear – Helpful on reducing paint chips when autocrossing?
Black Rubber Floor Mat in front – Good for autocrossing?
What about the JCW Sport Suspension? Good for autocrossing?
I believe that the JCW Tuning Kit would put me in an over-competitive racing class. Is that correct?

Thanks in advance,
Okiesnake

 

Ok, let's see.

Wheels - get whatever comes with the car, then replace with light aftermarket wheels.
10 speaker stereo - much better
Mud Flaps - no problems with rock chips during autox anyways, skip
Floor Mats - You have to take the mats out for autox, skip
JCW suspension - moves you out of stock, get the regular sport suspension and get koni shocks
JCW tuning - out of stock class, skip

 

What about just the JCW Shocks option. Wouldn't that be the same as adding Koni shocks when is comes to staying in the stock class?

 

No, because the JCW suspension has springs too. You have to leave the OEM springs on there to be stock. I think JCW cars are in a street prepared class.

 

Thanks for all the input. I still haven't completly decided on the exact final configuration but I have decided upon the sport package, the LSD, and no sunroof. I am sure I will also get the Cold Weather Package and the Convenience Package.