Looking at purchasing a 2004 JCW w/ 45,000 miles:
1. how do I asses its value?
2. were there any problem areas with this year/jcw?
3. what was included in the jcw that year, were there different jcw packages?
4. is it nuts to buy a used jcw, knowing that someone has probably driven it very hard?
thanks for your help,
Luxmedic

 

Buyers Guide:
http://www.motoringfile.com/2009/10/...guide-updated/

 

If there are obvious signs that someone has probably driven the car, as you put it, "very hard", then you're obviously going to want to steer clear of that one. There is a difference between use and abuse.

I bought my 2006 JCW last month w/23k on the odometer and I had similar concerns about how owners in general treat their 'tuned' Minis. Obviously, its going to vary on a case-by-case analysis, but my car had no signs of 'abuse'. All the service records were present, and the owner was adamant about making sure I understood that the car requires premium fuel. The tires weren't worn, the brakes looked good, and I got a TON of accessories (including a new case of full-synthetic Mini oil) which let me know he was an enthusiast and probably took better care of the car than the 'average' owner.

Just do a little research on the car, look over it well (pay for inspection if you're not car-savvy', and watch for the signs of abuse.

I too would be interested in seeing how to appraise a JCW (non-GP) Mini. I don't plan on selling mine but I am curious to see what my car is valued at. I think kbb.com offers a price on the JCW GP cars, but I don't think they have just the JCW Cooper S.

 

thanks for you reply
what might be the signs of abuse?