This is my current scenario. '06 Orange Cooper S Convertible with 10k miles...

https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...10k-miles.html

I've been a FORD fan for life... first car was a 66 Mustang and I'm getting the MINI while selling my 2004 FX4 F-150. I'm used to the mechanical work and more than that I LOVE IT. the coolant metal reservoir is something I'll probably do soon. (Just for the looks its well worth it)

Check out my thread and let me know thoughts / Ideas. I'll be happy to share Pictures of anything I do to it.

 

I would echo the items stated in this thread. The R53 is a blast to drive!! The coolant tank is probably the one item that I had to replace on my 2006 MINI Cooper S the most. I finally just threw in an aluminum tank and issue is now permanently fixed lol. Also that OEM crank pulley WILL fail. ATI is the way to go. I actually have had my 2006 for just over 9 years and I still love it. Only reason I am selling it is I ordered a 2016 Cooper S with JCW Tuning Kit and my wife won't let me keep both cars :(.

If you are interested, check out my ride:

http://www.motoringfun.com/2015/06/1...mini-cooper-s/

BTW- this car is ready to roll without ANY maintenance work needed (I am actually heading to dealer today to get an oil change as I always do every 5,000 miles)