Hi, I am in the process of acquiring my 1st Mini and thought I should get with the group in the know about these cars. I've never had one before and know very little about them other than I want one! I've been bitten by the Mini bug and can't seem to get it out of my head!
What I'm currently focusing on and trying to purchase is a 2008 Clubman S with a 6 speed manual. It has 62K on it and seems fully loaded. (no nav). Asking price is $15,785. Does this sound reasonable? It does to me but like I said, I know very little.
A couple of questions if I may. Is it required to use premium fuel in the S models? Also, in 2008, would this S model be a turbo or a supercharged engine? I can't seem to find a definitive timeline as to what year it changed from what to what.
Well, that's all for now. I will post pics if and when I get this one (or another as I'm not giving up until I have one)

Regards,
Tony

 

The price sounds ok. Get the vin# and go to the dealer and find out if the timing chain has been addressed and what other work has been done. And you are right on about th Mini bug it is a huge thing

 

According to Carfax, no major mechanical work has been performed. Tires replaced and oil & filter changed a few times but that's all that's listed.
How would I go about finding out if the timing chain was done and what is the change interval of this part?
Thanks

 

You'll need to go to a dealer to see if the timing chain/guides have been done as well as other dealer work.

The S model takes premium. It is turbocharged. It will be fast and nimble.

You will love it, but IMHO take it to a MINI oriented shop to have it checked out before purchase.

 

This is very sound advice. A dealer will plug in the keyfob remote (stores all service work done by a dealer) and it will give them the service history on the vehicle. As for as the price, it sounds reasonable. For a five year old model, the mileage seems a little high, but only by a couple thousand miles. No biggie.

Keep us posted.

 

Thanks for all the words of wisdom fellas. I will call my local MINI dealer tomorrow morning with the vin and see what I can find out.
I also just realized I have referred to this car as a Mini when in fact it's a MINI.
My apologies.

 

Well, after a long few months I am back on the hunt for another MINI. The chili red 08 I was looking at turned out to be not such a great deal after all once I realized it was coming from a non MINI dealer and offered no warranty whatsoever.
I am currently confining my search to MINI dealers and focusing on certified MINI Cooper Clubmans. Not sure about S model or not just yet.
I have a couple of questions for those of you in the know however.
Does the 2 year additional 50K mileage warranty offered on MINI certified used models cover such repairs as the timing chain and water pump issues I keep hearing about?
I am currently looking at a 2010 "S" model with a 6 speed and just under 55K for around $16,500. Mileage seems a bit high for a 2010 model but if the warranty is good I can live with it.
Any word of wisdom? Anything I should look out for besides the death rattle?
Thanks!
Tony