Hi everyone,

I'm looking into buying a R53 or R56 MCS within the next few weeks. Can't make up my mind between R53/R56 so it might come down to standard equipment and options.

Looking to spend under $12k here in SF Bay Area, that gives 02-06 under 100K miles or 07+ with 100-120K miles.

I would appreciate advice on what's best to do. My previous cars were a Miata and a Mazda 3.

Thanks for all the great information I've already found here!

 

Here is some good reading and info for you to read http://www.motoringfile.com/mini-r50r53-buyers-guide/
http://www.motoringfile.com/2007/11/...-s-r53-vs-r56/

 

I'm an R56 dude but considering the mileage on the 07 and the engine problems with the R56, I'd go with the R53. If course that all depends on the history of both cars -maintenance, etc. Lots to read in here but I'm sure others will chime in.

 

Thanks Braminator.

I was pretty much on board with this "steer clear from anything before 2004 when looking at used MINIs". Mostly looking at 05s and 06s. But there are some 07s in the mix and that's precisely where I'm not sure about what I want to do.

Maintenance and mods seem easier on a R53 but the R56 seems more refined. Right now I have 2 in mind:

- 2005 dark grey, 93K miles, manual, very well equipped (GPS, heated seats, electric everything) and reasonably good maintenance records. $10,000
- 2007 light grey, 93K miles, manual. Not as well equipped as the 05 but in excellent condition with all major maintenance done and new tires. $11,000

 

IMO go R53 all the way. There are issues with both, but the R56 problems IMO keep growing. A R53 just needs lots of maintenance. But if you keep up on it they can last a very long time.

 

I know I'm facing serious maintenance in both cases. What engine issues are there to expect on the R56??

 

Here is a great list by another NAM member
https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/...CJnT9MMP#gid=0

1.Carbon build up
2.Timing chain issues
3.Cold start issues
4.HPFP high pressure fuel pump.
5.Water pump
6.Turbo oil line leaks
7.Clutch

Here are lots of threads for your reading pleasure. https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...ms-issues-188/

This is not to say R53's dont have issues too.

 

There are also a couple of R53s with ~70K miles for $11K, not my favorite colors but less mileage... Thoughts?

 

Quick update. It's going to be a 2006 MCS JCW with all packages (and some nice mods), hopefully tomorrow. Will post pictures soon.

 

I look forward to seeing what you picked up good luck. Make sure you look it over from top to bottom and if you have any doubts maybe take it to a mini specialist.

 

The car has really good maintenance records (at the best places in the Bay Area) and the following already done:

Engine: GRS intercooler, Mini Madness JCW intake high flow filter, GP tuned chip, Powerflex motor mounts

Suspension: Koni adjustable coil overs, H-Sport front & rear competition adjustable sway bars, H-Sport camber plates, H-Sport control arms, M7 strut tower plates, Powerflex bushings

Brakes and Wheels: Wilwood 11+" brake kit with two sets of brake pads, rear brake bad upgrade, ATE brake fluid, Rota 17" lightweight wheels with stud conversion, Hankook tires

Unless it makes weird sounds or handles funny I'm probably going to buy it. I'm super excited since I turned down another JCW that had no maintenance records whatsoever.

 

Do you have some pictures of it. Where did you find it? Sounds like a good 1 except for a chip which our cars don't have, they get the ECU tuned.

 

Found it on Craigslist, took me about 2 months. I think she means ECU.

 

Looks good. Good luck

 

106K Miles. $12K. Weekend/fun/track car. My daily driver is a Vespa

 

Car acquired. I'm in, what a blast to drive.

 

Congrats on the purchase! I'm sure you're going to love it!

 

Great find! From your description, you have a very nice car there. Drive 'er in good health, and Happy Motoring!