Hello NAM from a future mini owner!

I'm originally from Houston, but am about to be at Fort Bliss, TX for the next three or so years.

I've been wanting a MINI badly since I first saw one zoom by in 2001 or 2002. And now I am finally able to purchase one. So maybe you guys can help me out with your opinions.

I'm debating on whether I should buy new or used (probably new since the cost difference isn't that drastic and I plan on having this great little thing for years), Cooper or Cooper S, straight from the dealer or built online!

If I do build online... does anyone know how long it takes to receive the MINI after sending the specs to a dealer?

 

Congratulations! It sure is exciting to think about finally getting your dream.
I also have wanted a MINI for the past 7 years, and have followed the brand religiously and test driven them since 2004- from the R53 to R56 to the new 2011s.

I recently ordered my 2011 MCSa, build to my exact specs. I love the 2011 models, although I am sure others have a case for the R53s and earlier R56s.

I thought of buying used. But, like you, I have lusted after one for so long that it would be sick and wrong to not get EXACTLY what I want.

I ordered mine in WA state this past week and she will be delivered around the end of June. Texas used to have quicker deliveries, but call MINI of Dallas maybe to find out. I worked with them once when I was considering ordering a 2007, and they were very helpful.

Good luck! I can hardly wait.

 

See my signature...it takes about 2 months for me. But since I live in CA, the shipping time itself is 22 days. Shipping from Southampton to east coast is much quicker.

 

I am on my third MINI custom order. Each has taken about six weeks, delivered in the Midwest. Definitely worth the wait to get exactly what you want

 

Depending on what you are looking for, you can purchase a used one with little mileage and all you are looking for. I found mine on a Porsche dealership back in 09

 

I ordered through MINI of Austin on 3/22. My MINI arrived in the US (Brunswick, GA) on 4/20 and I will hopefully pick it up this week. A little over 5 weeks.

 

Hello fellow Houstonian

After searching online for months, and then spending a good 2 hours at the dealership trying to make one work for me, we finally decided that I would just have to order one.

I ordered on 3/26 and received an email on 3/30 that my MINI went into production on 3/29.
Estimated Delivery date is this week

Good Luck and keep us posted on what you decide

 

Welcome to the show. I'm a Houstonian transplanted here in far West Texas. I'm on my 4th MINI and I will have more. Check out the showroom at MINI of El Paso or search on-line on other MINI dealer's net sites and/or have a MINI dealer search for what you want. I will even sell you my Horizon Blue/Black '11 MCS hardtop I got in December which has less than 3k on it. Also, there is no club yet so a few of us get together with the dealer and motor around. There is a really nice husband/wife team(both officers) from the base that motored with us last time. Come on out and play!

 

Thanks for your suggestions! I'm thinking about searching around for a bit and keeping my eyes peeled for a MINI that's already at a dealership either in Houston or El Paso and that interests me. I think I might even enjoy getting a somewhat generic mini and customizing it a bit at a time myself. More personal that way, I think.

A MINI club in El Paso sounds like a good idea ftttuhzbmcs! I would love to participate, given the chance. I know Houston has one but I don't think I'll been in Houston long enough to join in on an outing.

 

A few of us El Paso folks will be getting together on the 22nd for a Rally up into the Gila. (well, so long as the fires aren't a problem anymore) If you are in town and you have your MINI already, you should come check it out. All the details are at the link.

http://epminis.com

Good Luck!

 

If I can make time, I'd love too!

My MINI was driven to me by my parents across Texas. Got it today. 2009 MCS.



My MINI (which I've named "Maraschino") next to my mom's Suburban.

 

Great, got here just in time! Maraschino looks fantastic.

Check out our web blog for all the details on the Gila Rally we are organizing.

http://epminis.com

Like us on Facebook!

Let us know if you want to come along. We'll be using our web page and our Facebook to coordinate future events too. So don't forget to bookmark them!

 

Did your parents put your mini in the back of the suburban or did they drive it? Sure looks like it would fit in that pic! It always amazes me how small they are on the outside but feel so big on the inside!

Enjoy your new ride fellow Texan.

Happy motorin'