I would urge caution , there is a reason its there , We have found that the best is to fit a JCW exhaust system , lots of aftermarket stuff on the market and most of it is rubbish and will cause damage , also there is a certain UK based MINI Related website full of the most dangerous advice I have ever seen much of which if followed will ensure a quick demise of your engine . , if you want a nice reliable R53 with a decent bit extra go I would recommend, a 15% pulley , modified airbox , Janspeed Manifold with sport cat , JCW rear boxes , JCW intercooler ,and a decent remap to suit all of above , if you don't want to do it all together that's no problem I would start with Pulley , airbox and remap , removing the resonator will cost you power and torque , sure it will sound great but at what cost
G