Hello! I just bought a 2004 Cooper S in classic British Racing Green today. The car is in superb condition with 55k miles, has the Premium, Leather, Cold-Weather and H-K stereo options. I need to restore my current daily driver, an original-owner 1975 VW Scirocco, that is beginning to show signs of minor rust around the edges and the paint is cracking. So, I looked at all the new little cars like the Mazda 2, Fiesta, etc. and didn't particularly find them appealing. Had pretty much settled on a new Golf TDI but then saw the little Mini on their used lot. Love at first sight!!

Very happy to be a member here and I'm sure I'll find lots of good info. I'm an engineer and mechanic so I do all my own work. Had a beautiful Mazda Miata, 2000 Special Edition that I enjoyed very much but found it a bit cramped for my big frame (fat *** to be perfectly honest!). Had lots of fun fitting better suspension, exhaust, brakes, etc., along with a custom-modified hardtop I repaired.

Looking forward to spending lots of time this winter here with you fine folks.

Eric Freeman
Bellingham, WA

 

Welcome aboard Eric! NAM is a great resource for all things MINI, and the first gen cars - especially the R53s - are awesome! (No bias here of course )

Before buying my MINI I briefly considered some other makes (Mazda, VW, Nissan) but nothing was as special as the MCS. Not only that, we have a way better owner/enthusiast community!

 

Hi Eric and welcome to the forum, you are going to love your MINI, enjoy!

 

Welcome Eric, gotta miss the miata they are great cars. But MINI is awesome and can actually haul stuff.

 

congrats n welcome...

 

Congrats & Welcome! The fun has only just begun....it's never too late for a happy childhood...

 

welcome aboard!~!

 

Hello, Eric! Can't wait to see pics!