So took it out for an initial spin.
First impressions on absolutely hooning the mini and getting 15mpg.
The JCW slots in somewhere between the 370Z I had and the M3. It is one of the easiest cars to drive fast. I took my 370z on the same canyon road and the ass would bottom out, no such thing on the JCW. Also the JCW thanks to the turbo has an enormously wide power band, power from 2500-6500rpm, the transmission in sport shifts nice. The m3 is both faster and far more capable through the turns, however, the M3 is downright scary compared to the mini, i.e M3 would break tires loose at 60, and WOT was insanely scary coming out turns etc.
So I also ended up going bonkers with a Fox Notchback through he canyons, he was lowered, on at least 275s all around, + cowl hood, because reasons. He couldn't pull away from me through turns or on straight aways. However... I was super impressed, I don't think I could go any faster without seriously crashing or whatnot.
What's good about the mini:
1. Really great handling + size
2. Sounds very good
3. Very easy to drive at the limit
4. Tons of fun all around
5. Suspension is super compliant while being firm, i would NEVER fuck with it, it is a near perfect setup.
6. The power is perfect, doesn't need a tune or more power.
What's not good:
1. Tires could be taller still. I really do think this car needs to be on 17's
2. Brakes are not great, they are VERY GOOD, but they should be better considering the size of the calipers. I am thinking better pads may improve that. This is the road where I melted the CLA250 "AMG" brakes, no such issues on the mini.
Now just about the tires. Vs the factory run flats
+15-20% better handling, hard to quantify this mainly because my rear tires were so fking worn that it doesn't make it a fair comparison. but the new stuff is much more predictable at the limit now, as the ass doesn't slide out anymore, which was bizarre on a FWD car.
-10% road noise, rear is certainly quieter but front about the same as my P7s.
+20-25% better ride quality, but also take this with a grain of salt as my rears were done, I would say overall these are 10-15% better than runflats.
Nope not a NIGHT AND DAY OMG I RIDE ON A CLOUD, difference but better.