Have been seriously considering a used 2009 MCS or JCW cabrio, but really want to get the drivers difference for picking either car. Specs. is one thing but how it translates into fun everyday driving is something else. I think that is what it really boils down to...for me. I come from a slew of high horsepower AWD turbo cars...but now want something a little more civil for my daily driving.

 

So find one and buy it, you have the factors right get after it.

 

Get a JCW. Coming from those "high horsepower AWD turbo cars" as you say may lead to disappointment if you wind up with a Cooper S.

The S was not enough for me. I am quite happy with what I have.

 

BensMini...that I am...finding a used one of my liking is not that easy.

Onefish2...yeh, I have owned two STi's & an Evo, needless to mention they weren't stock. I do understand the JCW adds about 30-35 more hp over the MCS with I/E/tuning, but handling wise do any of the JCW's come with suspension upgrades? judging by your mods list in your sig. it's a can be added later mod.

 

Amazingly enough... no. The 2009+ JCW comes with the same suspension as the Cooper S. There is an option for a sports suspension for $500 and then you can do the JCW suspension if you want to stay OEM and under warranty.

You can't get the JCW suspension from the factory though. You get it installed at the dealer or at the port if you order you car and ask to have it installed there.

If I had to do it over. I would have gone aftermarket with NM springs and Konis or coilovers.

This may help:

Standard Suspension = 17mm
Sport Suspension = 18mm
JCW Suspension = 18.5mm

 

If you have access to a dealer, test drive the two and see if the S is enough for you. There is notable MPG difference, if that is a factor for you.

 

Zoedragon....that's the thing, I hate going to dealerships for test drives, where the phone calls and emails never end, if you don't buy the same day. Last car I bought, was used, and it felt so much better not to pay an arm and a leg and also not hear the 'we are the best dealership coast to coast' chant from a salesperson. I think power wise 210ish for a 2877lb car is good for daily driving. MPG seems comparable to S?? Is anyone getting different mileage then advertised??

 

Well i have just a Cooper auto 2009 and getting 35 mpg all the time hwy or city ! El Tiger