Hello to all...I look forward to another great forum of help and advice with this car.

I have a bit of a car habit...My last three "fun cars" were: 2002 M3 SMG, 2005 M3 with a full Active Autowerke SC treatment...Made about 450 HP to the wheels, and my last fun car was a 1999 Viper GTS with only 13K miles on it. That was in better economic times...I had those cars from 2006 to 2010.

Fast forward 18 months...Ready to try something new...But only wanted to spend $10K. A few of my choices were: 1986 37K mile SVO Mustang (had one after high school), maybe a pristine 80's GT, an older MR2, etc. I was all over the place...Then I thought about a Mini. Doesn't hurt that the wife LOVES them. And I have 2 small kids. And a Toyota Tundra that gets 16 mpg. This Mini will be the "fun" car that goes out on nice days...

Posted on a motorcycle racing forum (road raced for 12+ years) on what to buy...Many posted a Mini.

Here I am. Just put a deposit down on a 2003 Mini "S". Silver with cloth interior. Sport, premium and cold weather packages...58K miles. LOOKS like it is in near mint shape...2 Owner car. Hopefully it is what they tell me it is.

I am in Florida...Will be flying to St. Louis to pick it up (Honda dealer). Bought for $10,500. Seems like a decent deal.

I know the service manager at our Orlando Mini...He used to service my BMW's. Really good guy...Gave me the thumbs up on this one.

Hope to pick it up and make the 1000 mile drive home next Wednesday!