Small update after a long period of time...

I have returned to the car to stock for the most part. Coilovers, FMIC, intake, rear sway bar...etc... all gone. The only performance mod left is the lowering springs. Everything else is just aesthetic. I did this to raise money for my new car, a 2005 Lotus Elise. I'm barely driving the Mini anymore, but I did just put some new wheels on it. 17x7 Sparco Assetto Garas with Hankook Ventus Evo V112 tires.

It bugs me that I spent so much money on my Mini last year, and the Lotus already does EVERYTHING better in stock form. It even gets similar gas mileage when I'm hammering it. I'm still considering selling the Mini since it's been parked for the most part, but only if the right buyer comes along.

Also I'm thinking about trading my joey modded & angel eye'd Xenon headlights for a set of stock chrome ones. I think the black headlights look goofy with the silver wheels. If anyone is interested let me know...

 

No need to be bugged about spending money. Look at the enjoyment that you got from the JCW and the mods that you did. The MINI served you well as your only car, and had room for your hockey equipment and other things. Now that you have 2 cars, and the Lotus is more 'specialized', it is only appropriate to adjust the contents of your garage appropriately. Life is about enjoying what you have. Get a Jeep for the winter and drive the snot out of the Lotus. You are the envy of most of us married guys. Life is good.

Mike