The gearbox issue was with the 2002 model only. The build quality really showed up with the 2005 Model Year. I have owned every model year MC S 02-08, still own the 2005 MCS Cabrio. The S series were supercharged 4 bangers until model year 08 when MINI changed to turbos and had it's biggest changes in exterior and interior for the coupes. The 09 Cabrio will be the first of the turbo series becoming available sometime in March 09.
I think the very best value MC S is the 05. Here is a picture of my 05.
Call
