with a budget of $17k, what year, model, trim, etc...would you look to buy a mini cooper?..i appreciate your help..im trying to avoid any major issues with any particular year, or models..thank you for your help
rick

 

A 2006 MINI GP or a new 2009+ JCW.

 

If I were to do it over again with my MINI R56 I would get a 2009 r56 JCW 6 speed. I would also find one with fewest miles possible and possibly some sort of warranty for the timing chain rattle issue and carbon build up issue.

The high pressure fuel pump has been an issue twice on my car. But luckily it's covered with a 120,000 mile warranty.

I think the MCS is a great value but would actually like to bump up to the JCW for looks and added performance.

 

Get an 06 JCW with low miles from carmax if possible, then spend the extra 2k for the warranty! It's saved me thousands in repairs!

 

+1 on the 09 JCW R56

 

2006 S/JCW (GP if you can find it.) with a manual. No question IMO.

 

Here ya go...

http://tucson.craigslist.org/cto/3771155844.html

Or...

http://sacramento.craigslist.org/cto/3787380884.html

In Red!

http://orangecounty.craigslist.org/cto/3722893117.html

A GP!!!

http://phoenix.craigslist.org/nph/cto/3787258016.html

All within your price range!

 

Definitely a GP1!