Hi all.

New here, just picked up an '05 PW R53 w/ a 6spd for $7300, with 92k on the clock. Went without a car for too long (over a year), previously coming from Mazdas (had a '99 Miata before this).

I love this car, reminds me so much of the Miata, but way more practical. I hate the suspension though, going to need to change that soon.

Overall the Mini's in great shape. Just need to fix a few common issues - bad tensioner pulley, LCA bushings, power steering lines, valve cover gasket and another oil leak I need to figure out. Getting the tensioner pulley replaced this weekend along with a 15% SC pulley and colder plugs. Hopefully the SC doesn't crap out soon.

Crappy Instagram photo below, photo of old Miata below that.

 

Congrats , very nice Pepper White. Post up some more pics

 

Welcome to NAM! Love Miata's. My little brother has one. Been thinking about getting one to run in spec Miata, but I already have an expensive race car, so I don't need to add anymore costs haha! Looks like a great purchase on the R53! If you need any help with the fixes/repairs or upgrades be sure to check out our tech articles here. If you have any questions or need any help please don't hesitate to ask. Enjoy!

 

Welcome to NAM! Good coilover and sway bar options available to tighten up that suspension

 

You do get fun cars. Congrats!

 

Yeah, the Mini is a hoot to drive. The one thing that causes me a little heart burn is the poor reputation they enjoy for reliability/dependability. I also had two Miata's over the years and enjoyed them very much. I'll have to take a look at the new ND coming out.

 

Don't expect Miata reliability with your MINI, but well maintained, R53s hold up quite well.

 

Welcome! Super cool Mini :-)