It is just evolution and because of the murena's long lasting construction methods and plastic panels it is relatively easy to make modifications. Obviously like nature, some attempts at change are a disaster (especially when some fool tries to make a murena look anything like a Ferrari).
Personally I like the change of shape that the S rear spoiler makes even though I agree that it is not a quality item. I also like the S side skirts. Neither items were part of the original "murena" design.
Things that I dont like are the black rubber bits to cover panel gaps and some of the obvious panel joins eg front spoiler. These are just cost cutting measures by the manufacturer in the same way that the original Mini has external but-welds joining panels together. I also think the front bumper/spoiler is a bit weedy but as yet I have still to see an alternative that doesn't look worse.
The dirty, saggy orange velour trim in my car was bogging (Scottish expression) and any alternative would be an improvement. Obviously hideous red and black leather would not be a good way forward....
As for modern wheels, some look awful but nobody will be able to convince me that 17" Azus 5 spoke wheels do not improve the look of a murena....shame they cost so much
I hope this doesn't sound like I am slagging off the murena. Far from it. It is just that unless you have a really good original car - always a place for them - I would rather have something that was better if I could afford it and that could include changing the interior, front and rear spoilers and even eventually the drivetrain (an Alfa V6 would be the perfect choice).
Are the Azuz 5 spoks the ones Lennart uses ? if so I think they suit the car very nicely... but they do slightly resemble the ones used on a certan car of the mark starting with "F" that we dont speak of!
Me, I choose the 70'ies look.. these are the ones Im sticking with.. It will take quite a bit of work to make them fit, but it will be worth it
Enginewise, My bet for the best murena engine would be the pug T16 from the 405.
Light 16 valve unit with plenty of power and torque... AND! just as importantly a good gearbox.. if in doubt try the one in Lennarts car.. Its awsome compared to the one in the 2.2.
And more so, its a, somewhat, straight forward job of fitting one. (in a 1.6 that is)
Having never driven a v6 I can only speculate what the weight would be like... It would surely be a blast if one could manage to fit one of those with hot cams and seperate throttlebodies!!
The Noice alone would be worth it!
But In the end Im not sure I could ever rest knowing that one of the exaust manifolds are THAT close to the fueltank.....
But then again.... I have never been known for any particular feat of courage