I'm going to buy a Mini but the used ones seem overpriced compared to ordering a new one. I know there is a wait for a new one but it probably is worth it. If I ordered a new one today does anybody know if it could be built before the March price increase? Also, why do some dealers get cars in 8 weeks instead of 4-6months?

 

The only true way to know when your MINI will be built is to place the order and get a production number from 866 ASK MINI.

Each dealer gets an alotment of cars per month. Some times they get enough orders to completely fill a month in advance. MIB was that case. I had a two week wait untill I got a production number. MIB took 8 weeks total. Then there is the delivery location issue. East coast cars are delivered quicker than West Coast cars.

 

I ordered 1/20 Got a order number on the spot. I called Ask MINI yesterday cand they said my car will begin production on 1/30!

 

To avoid the March price increase, the car must arrive at the dealership before March 1st.

 

White Roof Radio discussed this on (I think) episode 29 or 30. Highly recommended. :-)

 

If you are not in California it is not impossible to buy one off the lot. In fact, the last time I was at my dealer (in December) there were at least 20 Minis on the lot.

After saying that, I must admit that I ordered mine as to get EXACTLY what I wanted and waited 6 or 7 weeks

 

If you don't mind a fully loaded car, The dealers have some on the lot. If you don't want something then you have to custom order.

 

the dealerships in Greenville & Charleston South Carolina and Charlotte NC have numerous MC, MCS, MCc, MCSc cars on the lot. I ordered from Century in Greenville on 1/6 and my car is set to roll OFF the line on Monday...1/30! Whoo Hoo! Now...if the boat was just a tad faster crossing the Atlantic to Charleston. Maybe JCW equipped?

 

How willing are dealerships to search inventory at other dealers? Here's what I'm planning on (if I don't change my mind again. . .):
MCSc
Chili Red w/black bonnet stripes
xenon lights
cold weather pkg

As stated earlier in thread, most cars on lot have many more options. I've looked at individual dealer websites, and several seem to have at least a couple closer to what I want (and I'm willing to be a LITTLE flexible on options). But 2 dealers (D&B in Indy and Cincinnati MINI) encourage me to order if I don't want one fully loaded.

I'm driving my Nissan on it's last legs, and I may end up in the position that I can't wait 2 months for a new car. I'd order now, but I'm just trying to delay a bit longer for financial reasons (tax return, raise, etc.)

Any other experience on getting dealers to search for what you want?

Thanks.