I'm finalizing the purchase of an 09 R56 JCW in Laser Blue, so here I am. I live in Jacksonville Florida, but I'm currently working in Saudi Arabia as a contractor, and will be returning to the US in late August.
Interestingly enough, I found the car here in the market place, and it's been a Florida car it's whole life, so things just kind of just worked themselves out.

I've owned 2 Mini's in the past; an 03 that I purchased off-lease and then sold when it became impractical due to a growing family, and then later a 07 Laser Blue MCS that I bought new, which was stolen about 6 months later. I currently own a 21 Charger Redeye, but I also want a daily beater that gets decent mpg, but is still fun to drive, and so began my search for another Mini.

I've got a pretty strong background with forced induction cars, and I'm slowly working my way back into the car scene after getting rid off all my "fun" cars and taking a bit of a hiatus.

Looking forward to interacting with you all, and eventually getting back home to enjoy life with a Cooper again.

 

WELCOME ABOARD!!

 

I owned an '08 R56S and an '12 R56S. The Prince engine in the early had a lot problems that could be very expensive to fix. Just be careful with this purchase.

 

Nice! We need some pictures.

 

Thanks for the advice, I've been reading about the issues, and it appears that this car is pretty well sorted. Since I'm still out of the country and can't put eyes on the car, a pre-purchase inspection was done at a very reputable Mini specialist. With the exception of some minor issues which are being addressed, he gave the car a clean bill of health. If all works out to plan, my girl will be taking possession of it in the next few weeks and bring it home.

Every car has it's issues and I'm mechanically inclined, so stuff like this doesn't really bother me. As long as it doesn't give me the headaches my old DSM used to give me, we'll be golden.

One of the first orders of business when I get home will be blacking out all of the shiny "chrome" trim pieces.

You bet! As mentioned the car isn't officially "mine" yet, but will be soon. Here are a few of the pictures that I've gotten from the current/previous owner.





And a few of my Redeye

 

WELCOME ABOARD!!

 

I lived in Jeddah for 4 years in the early 80’s.