Finally ended my search, financing arranged, as soon as FEDEX delivers the check, I'm off to buy my new to me MCS. This is a BRG, with black roof and stripes, sunroof, performance, sport, and comfort packages. Leather seats, HK, sunroof, etc. with just under 19K miles for $18K.
I'm buying from the original owner and everything looks good with the exception of a new parking lot scab on the right front bumper corner. It seems the only aftermarket item are the extra driving lights from the Mini Dealer on the front. CARFAX looked great.
I commute about 60 miles a day, mostly freeway, and this will allow me to get out of my Chevy Avalanche, cutting my gas consumption by, I'm hoping, about 50%. Between what I think is a good deal on the car, and some savings in operation, I'll have the beginnings of the excuses required for the mods I'm sure will start soon.
Anyway, thanks for all the info I've already scavenged, and the comaradrie I can sense. I'll request your indulgence in advance for the dumb newbie questions I'm sure I'll ask when I don't spend enough time with the search function.

 

Grats and welcome to NAM. What year is your new MCS?

 

Welcome to NAM. All questions are welcome here.

 

Welcome! I hope you don't have to wait too long to get in your MINI!! Enjoy the ride .

 

Duh! It is a 2004, so I'll still have some time on the 3yr/4yr clock. Frankly, I've haven't seen too many with the beige interior, and although I'm usually a huge fan of red vehicles, this combo looked really good to me.

 

Welcome to NAM!