Hey all,

I just joined up. My wife agreed to let me buy a Mini if I sell my motorcycle so here I am!

I've begun my search and gathered this was the place to start.

I'd really like to get an S but I'm on a budget so it looks like a '02/'03 model for me.

If you guys have any suggestions, tips, etc. on what to look for or what to watch out for concerning these year models let me know. I only know that I really want one and I've read a fair amount about them - oh, and a couple years ago I "built" numerous ones on the Mini website


Cheers!

Heath
"zymurguy"

 

What is your budget? You are going to save some money on a 02/03 but repairs on MINI's... Well they ain't cheap! And the fact that MINIs hold their value. You are rarely better off buying an older model. Infact the first MINI I looked at buying was a 2004 and it was summer 2005 When I realized that I could get a BRAND NEW one with full warenty for less money... No Brainer, NEW custom ordered MINI with full warenty!

 

I bought a 2003 for close to $8k less of what a 2006 with the same options would have cost. Included in that cost, a 4 year / 48k mile bumper to bumper warranty above and beyond the original factory warranty. I most likely will never buy a new car again and stick with certified used and an extended warranty, much less expensive for the same thing.

 

Hello. I just bought a used Mini Cabrio a few weeks ago. You really need to shop, because a used Mini holds it's value rather well.

After pondering and investigating the new V.S. used situation, I found an 05
Mini Cooper Convertible in Like new condition at a Dealership. After about two weeks of negotiating, I drove away with the car for 20,000.00, a savings of
over 4000.00 when compared to the exact same model new. It had just over 12,000 miles on it, so I get the balance of the warrenty and service.

Now, did I get a good deal ??? I saved about enough to cover one year's car payments,(on a four year loan) on a car that's one year old with one year worth of use. Considering the depreciation, I'm about even (statisticly) to buying a new car, but with less money out of my pocket. That worked for me. Also, I was able to drive away (right into this lovely spring weather)instead of waiting out the summer on a custom order.

On the down side, I really wanted a few options that this car didn't have,
but I loved the car overall, so I went with it.

You can always buy new off the lot, but you mostly find high dollar cars that are loaded with options, and you'll most likely pay list price.

I would search for an 05 (considered the year that "they got it right" by many) and if you can get a good deal, I'd run with it.
Just my 2 cents.... Only you can do what's right for you.

Good Luck,
Xtro

 

I know exactly what you are getting at. Having the warranty and all is really nice but I can't spend over $18K. So a new model is way, way out of range. I can pick up a great standard Mini but then I wouldn't really be getting what I truly want. I've seen quite a few S models with higher mileage with lots of options and in great shape for under $18K so that's the sandbox I'll have to play in.

I bought my motorcycle much the same way you got your Mini though so I know what your saying... I got a brand new '03 model at the end of the season in '04... got a great deal!

Thanks for replying and for the advice!!!

 

Thanks a ton for the buying tips... how 'bout those "issues" with the older models. I've seen a few comments here and there but I'm not too clear on what they are. Something about people getting a re-programmed computer or ??? Is this something I need to look into when buying an '02 or '03? Also, are there any chronic issues with Minis in general?

I bought a VW Corrado in '92 and man was that a basket case. I think every Corrado in the world had cracked fog lamps, a broken drivers side door handle, faulty antennae, busted moon roof and a failing 2nd gear syncro (just to name a few!). Mine also ate up engine idle stabilizer valves and engine temperature senders like crazy. I think it spent more hours in the shop than it did on the road! What a piece of cr@p-o-la!

Okay, sorry 'bout the venting... I'm okay now.

Those are the things I'd like to know more about when shopping for an older Mini... things to look out for and things that would raise a flag and say "stay far far away from this one".

 

I sold my bike too for the MINI. I feel your pain (and your happiness).