I've found a used 2005 Mini cooper S convertible on local classified. It is private seller, and the VIN number checks out fine. It was one owner, and the owner is a middle-aged father of 3 girls.

It has about 60k miles, 6 speed manual transmission.
From the pictures, it appear to have

- 17" rims (8 spoke)
- multifunction steering wheel
- heated seats
- automatic climate control

So may be it has Sports package, cold weather package.


Questions - I appreciate those who will be posting to my questions in advance

-Is there any notorious problem that this particular 05 model has? if so, have they been mostly worked out on this forum?
-Manual transmission pretty robust? Clutch?
-Any maintenance issues?
-Is there any way of finding out what option it was built with, based on the VIN?
-Is $15000 fair price?

I understand I am buying a used car that is 4+ years old. I am pretty handy with cars - I can do jobs such as brake jobs, shock replacement, ball joint replacements, belts/ac/alternator/waterpumps etc... so I am not too scared of most repairs, but I am not ready for something serious like a complete transmission overhaul that would cost me $2k right off the bet.

 

-Is there any notorious problem that this particular 05 model has? Not really if so, have they been mostly worked out on this forum? Yup
-Manual transmission pretty robust? Yes Clutch? So so? Really depends on previous driver, but they have been know to need replacing.
-Any maintenance issues? Coolant tank like most MINIs, engine mounts maybe, and check under cabrio threads not sure about cabrio specific issues
-Is there any way of finding out what option it was built with, based on the VIN? Meet with driver at dealership and with key they can get a full maint report and all options. I keep all maint/upgrade doccuments and window stickers, etc check with owner for docs. But there is a thread where you provide vin# and get info, here on NAM, but need to dig for it
-Is $15000 fair price? Great price
MINI Cooper Buyers Guide: http://www.motoringfile.com/mini-r50r53-buyers-guide/

 

What he said (great answer). I didn't have the coolant tank issue - did have the engine mount replaced. I would add to his list the mushrooming strut towers (not on mine, but I have a brace and will eventually add fixed camber plates), and upper strut mount failure (I dd have this, but it isn't as bad as it sounds). The only cabrio-specific issue I can think of is the "white marks" on the top and you can see that (fixed by the time mine was built).

I would say if you like the way it drives, get it. More problems than a Toyota, but WAYYYYY more fun. Totally worth it.

 

Updates...

I bought my mini today. Wooohoo!!!

Its not the one mentioned in the original post, but a different one.

It is a 2005 MCS convertible, 6 Speed manual. July 2005 build (according to Carfax), about 35k miles on it.

It has Combo package #1, #2, #3 and LSD, plus Chrono Package.

I hope things go well with my Mini.

 

^^Sounds like a hawt ride. Congratulations...now, Drop the top, motor on & grin from ear to ear!

Post picts when ya get a chance...What color is your new cohort?