I am interested in buying a sporty Mini Cooper. Which year and model should I get? I also may want to do suspension, and muffler mods. How much should I budget for this purchase. Many thanks

 

By sporty Mini Cooper, I assume you mean MINI Cooper S. Your last question pretty much answers your first question in terms of how expensive car can be. How much can you afford to set aside or how much of an auto loan can you get? That's a question only you can answer.

 

I would say to start looking at the internet-based auto sales places, like cars.com, etc. and see what is available within your area and take it from there. MINIs hold their value really well, so don't expect to find one real cheap.

 

tks. But which cooper s turbo year should I avoid? is there a different in body models between years? Are the turbo's reliable? or should i get the supercharger?

 

You'll find as many different opinions on here as there are people who post. The body style changed with the 2007 model year. That is when it went from supercharger to turbo. Some people love the pre-07, some people love the newer model, some people hate it, etc. I don't think there is a "turbo year" to avoid, but if you had to pick one, I guess it'd be the 07 since it was the first year with turbo, but I haven't heard of any major turbo issues for any year. With the supercharged models, I've heard the 05-06 were the best bets. As far as styling, go with what you like and can afford and don't worry about it.

 

If you can, find one that still has a warranty left. It's not vital, but you never know what you might run into with a used car.

 

I got an 07, it is G2G. 1st gen has way more aftermarket then 2nd gen so it depends if you are into modifying too.

 

turbo better gas mileage. supercharger no lag,more mod parts,i'd go with 05-06

 

Never say "sporty" again...

 

Sporty was always my favorite.

 

I love Ginger

Anyways I have a 05 MCS and love it. I love the supercharger whine. However next week I plan on test driving a 2nd Gen S to see how the turbo feels but I am sticking with my 05 for awhile

 

If you are looking / budgeted for a year model 2005 or earlier try this link.
http://www.motoringfile.com/mini-r50r53-buyers-guide/

 

I suggest the latest build date 2006 MCS 6 speed you can find, with leather, MFSW, 16" wheels and cold weather package, and less than 30k miles.

I got mine for 16k.

 

The 3rd one is so hot oh my I need some privacy

 

Really though? You think the 3rd on is hot?! Come on man... they are all hot lol. But no Ginger FTW

 

Geesh. howsoon you need to study more. Know your Spice Girls. From left to right: Posh Spice, Baby Spice, Scary Spice, Ginger Spice, Sporty Spice.

"The third one...".... geesh... amateur....