Just joined the forum. I've decided to buy a used mini but haven't yet. Hoping to get some opinions before. I'm looking at older (2003-2004) S models, manual trans and 50k- 80k miles. It will be driven about 5k miles per year, maybe less. I'd like to know what to expect re reliability and maintenance and what to look for when looking. Thanks in advance for your time.

 

The 05/06 were the last of the Gen1 cars so they have the most updated systems. With those miles and/or age would check; belt, belt tensioner, harmonic damper/crank pulley, water pump, t-stat, suspension bushings, crank sensor o-ring, and power steering hoses.

If you do not know MINIs suggest you get a PPI.

 

And welcome to the forum

 

Thank you both. I have two cars that im scheduled to see - both 2003's with less than 80k. i just want to make sure im looking at the right stuff and will make some calls to see if i can get a ppi.

 

Welcome. I would go for the 2005-2006 if you can find it. Updated options and exterior. Just make sure the supercharger is good, strong clutch, good waterpump, and the maintenance have been done. Good luck.

 

Although i understand that mini improved the cooper every year since it was introduced stateside, I read a couple of articles describing the changes year to year and didn't see anything mechanical or suspension-related that materially improved the 05-06 over the 03. Is this correct?

Other than the actual physical condition, the styling, appearance and options mean very little for my purpose. I'm looking for the best condition, for the lowest price. Since I take public transportation to work, the only real requirement I have is that I have fun driving it, which is how i got to a mini. This will be a dd for about a year while I restore an '86 rover 110, then will split time with the 110 (110 when its nice out, mini when its cold, raining, certain events). Compared to driving a 1986 diesel, any level mini will be luxurious, I just want to avoid the big stuff like the cvt, or engineering defects that domino into other problems (although i will likely do some of the simple bolt in mods like a tuner, belts and pulley, etc).

 

A 2005 or 2006 Cooper S model with have more power (+7 hp / +7 lb-ft) due to a more efficient supercharger (Teflon coated rotors) and slightly better acceleration due to revised gear ratios.

A 2002 - 2004 model with a JCW Tuning Kit will also have the improved supercharger.

 

Thank you. Ill be seeing two this weekend - 03's S 90k mileage or less. PPI to follow if a "contingent on PPI" offer is accepted.

 

If the supercharger was ever changed out to a newer one, most likely its the Teflon coated on an older MINI.

 

So you have a 110? Yes, you are right when you get into the Mini you'll feel amazing, lol. Sounds like you have a good plan there, best of luck.

 

Thanks. I got a list of questions ill be asking the owners. Ill add supercharger replacement.