Hello, I'm thinking about getting a used mini cooper S, 2004- 2010, and I have a couple questions. 1st off I was wondering what is the best year, I know the earlier mini S had a supercharger and the newer ones have a turbo. Which is the better generation and what are the differences? What do you average with mpg? In the future I am hoping to do some modifications such as a better exhaust system (if it is possible in the mini) and other engine mods, so Is it hard to work on the mini? I also heard the reliability of minis are bad, are they just exaggerating it or is it really just simple fixes.

Thanks for the help!

-Mike

 

If you want a 1st generation MINI I suggest you look at a 2006. It was the last year and had the most bugs worked out of it. It is hit and miss with MINIs as far as I can tell. I have had very little problem with mine and some people with the same year seem to have nightmares with theirs. Some of it might be exaggerated because the are not use to driving a car that requires more "maintenance" or care than say a Honda or Toyota. I also drive a Mercedes and it requires a little more maintenance but not as much as the MINI.
Start reading the posts on this site. There is a lot to be learned. It's like they say, everybody complains about what is wrong with their car but very few post what is right.

 

The question is whether you want an S model or not. It seems the S models have a lower than average dependability rating while the base models have an above average rating for dependability. At least that's what I've read on this forum.

 

If faster is the priority look for a 2006 or 2012+. If handling/mpg is more important get a non S. Both are fun as hell. I went for a non S as they have less issues and I wanted a great handling, fun to drive convertable that was affordable. I have a 2009 r57 that's only seen the shop for oil changes and brake pads but it's a low mileage car with 37k on the odometer.

 

+1 on an '06. Only thing I would caution you about is making lots of engine mods without doing the research. There are horror stories in this forum where changes have been made that wound up making their MINI inoperable in one way or another, the ECU does not like surprises. The very best mod for the money is a heavier sway bar and KONI FSD struts and that one doesn't upset the ECU. These are not soccer mom grocery getters that you can just jump into and ignore. Pay attention to oil change, tire rotation and detailing 101 threads. There's lots of good info and advice in there.
The choice between a Justa or an S is mainly the SC and the added HP. The SC does require pro-active attention from time to time, i.e. belt, tensioner and fluid.

 

Avoid - R50 MINI Cooper, from 2002 - 2006 with CVT
R52 MINI Convertible, from 2005 - 2008 with CVT

Unless you can do your own repairs, have a warranty, or have lots of money don't buy -
R56 MINI Cooper S from 2007 - 2010 (N14 Engine)

Also consider a 2011 and forward...they have a better engine

My 2008 MINI Cooper S - average of 31 MPG, but you have to buy lots of SYN 5W-30 motor oil.

 

Very true...

 

Both gens have issues. But I'd look at a low mileage 05-06 MCS or 09-10 MCS. Keep up maintenance and 5k oil changes. Might also want to look at the carfax for accidents as well. Good luck.