New member from Fort Meade. Picked up a 2003 Hardtop for my stepson as his first vehicle. Thus far, I am impressed with the vehicle. Though just a base model with the 5 speed, I think it will be a great first vehicle for him. Look forward to reading up on the site on things about these vehicles.

 

Hello Staggie and welcome. Cooper ( NON S ) owner here also. If you need anything let me know.

Also post up some pics. How many miles ?

 

Just rolled 81K which in the grand scheme of things, is pretty low mileage. We looked at few S and came across this. Seemed to fit the bill for a 17 year old. Plus my wife likes it and probably will keep it.

 

Welcome to NAM! The R50 is definitely a great first car for your stepson. Would love to see some pictures.

 

The night we picked her up. Need to go over the car with a fine tooth comb and fix any issues that come up.

 

Looks great! Well, if you need any help with those issues please don't hesitate to shoot me a PM as I'd be very happy to help.

 

Thanks for the pics. Congrats. Looks like you have the popular wheels for the early R50's . You don't have a factory exhausts tip , possible the exhaust was replaced or its just missing. 82122210098

https://www.ecstuning.com/Search/SiteSearch/82122210098/





The chili red with the white top is a classic combo, one of my favorite.



The antenna is missing, just go with the stubby version looks much better .

Two version, had them on mine , no reception loss except for a little on AM side.

MINI newest version 83mm

We even have the older MINI design in URO version 105mm .

http://www.ecstuning.com/Search/SiteSearch/65202296772/

MINI


URO


thanks

Also the front badge on the hood center logo has flaked off. Here is all the gen1 , you will need the R50 version and some tricks and tips on removal and install.

Setting the car in the sun or heat helps pull the old one off and +1 on the dental floss trick , working for the sides first seem to help.

Removing of the foam residue the some WD40 or any other substance of similar removal chemical will work, prep the surface clean helps adhere the new one, remove all the grease.

Line it up with the pins and make sure its aligned properly straight.

Just make sure you get the correct emblem for the front. Peal and stick application.


Gen 1 R53 & R52 MINI Cooper S "Hood" Emblem is smaller Part number 51140660106

http://www.ecstuning.com/Search/SiteSearch/51140660106/ES78841/





&

Gen 1 R50 & R52 MINI Cooper "base" or Justa (no hood scoop ) "Hood" Emblem is bigger.

Part number 51147026184


http://www.ecstuning.com/Search/SiteSearch/51147026184/ES79249/





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Also the Gen 1 R50 R52 R53 MINI Cooper & Cooper S share the same "trunk" emblem.

Part number 5114702618


http://www.ecstuning.com/Search/SiteSearch/51147026186/





Thanks

 

Great first vehicle for sure! And it's possible that Mom and Dad might be enjoying it some too!! With tires aired up to spec, these little Minis are a hoot to drive.

Excellent find.

 

Thanks for the welcomes and replies. I've been taking inventory of all items needed to be replaced and had the emblem and antenna, but didn't realize the exhaust tip. Thanks! Already knew from previous owner that the glove box was engineered with Velcro as it wouldn't remain shut. Need to replace that or make a shelf. We'll see. And mom and dad took car out yesterday and put it through the paces. Pretty solid car and I see my wife wanting to drive it more already.

 

That's pretty amazing how these Minis infect those who get close enough! Careful! Take your Vitamins every day, but you'll probably still end up looking around for a Mini of your own in time. They're like little Borg cubes... resistance can be futile.

 

Congratulations! I think 1st gen MINIs are the ultimate 1st car. Sporty, compact, easy to maneuver and a great manual transmission. They're very cheap to buy and with some diligent maintenance they can be very reliable through 200,000+ miles.

 

You are welcome. Let me know if you need anything else, those are just a few I could see from the pics.