Just got my first Mini. I'm coming to the Mini world from the VW world, I've had 20 VW's from air cooled bugs, buses and notchbacks to water pumpers. I just sold my third Corrado last night and have my last air cooled VW for sale. I just bought a 2002 Mini S with 80k miles and I'm excited to have a car made in this millennium for a change. I have a lot of plans for it already and my wife is actually on board! She's always wanted a Mini. I'm a little nervous to learn all about a new car, I'm used to how VW does things, I'm hoping it won't be too hard to figure these out. I had the car for 2 days before I had to figure out the first problem, the EML light went on and I had to jiggle the wire to get the contact again and turn it off so I could actually drive it, so I'm already on the lookout for a new harness. I'm hoping there aren't a lot of problems like that.

 

I came from the GTI world as well. I think of the R53 as the MK 1 GTI of its era. Welcome!

 

Welcome to the MINIacs!

It is hard to go wrong with a R53...

Motor on!

 

I gotta tell you, it's a blast to drive! It gives my old Corrado a run for its money and I thought that car was fun. The bonus of this car is that I can fit people a lot easier in the R53. I couldn't beat the price either, less than $4k and in really good shape owned by a guy who really cared about his car.

 

Congratulations. The R53/R52 make motoring a joy. Check out psmini.org. They have a lot of information that may be helpful. Enjoy the ride

 

Welcome to the club! I used to live out there. Lots of cool roads once you can get out of traffic-town!Motor on!

 

Welcome! Mini's are definitely a different breed than the VW's you're used to. Just take the time to learn everything about your new Mini and you'll grow to love it. If you ever need any help with DIY work on your Mini be sure to check out our tech articles here. You can also read through them as they provide a great amount of literature that can help you learn about your new Mini.

-Luccia

 

Welcome, I love classic aircooled VWs.

If you need a harness we sell new ones, but also have 10 R53's we are parting out and can get you used parts too.