So, I am already sold on the car and I am a bit embarassed to say this - but I haven't even taken it for a test ride yet.. HA! [I read alot]

I have talked to some people over at South Motors - and they appear to be willing to negotiate on a car that is on the lot - but nothing really suits me so... I'm thinking about heading over to Braman Mini.

So what are the experiences out there???

What I'm looking for: MCS, Colors (I'm flexible). Must have: Sport/Premium/Center Arm Rest/ 17" Rims... everything else is gravy.


Let's get down to brass:
So I've I price a car at MSRP 26.5k, and drop 1500 for 36month/12k doesn't it sounds like I could get 300/month w/tax???

I currently have an 2005 Honda Accord Lease, 21.5k MSRP sign/drive (no money at all!) and I'm paying $275 (including tax on a 36month/12k)

I also recently leased a 07 Ford Edge (MSRP 32k) for thw wifey and I handed over $1600 and pay 380/month including tax....

Given the above shouldn't I be able to walk away with my price???


That''s alot to read - thanks for sharing all the other priceless info.

PS - I am test driving both (Auto/6-Speed) soon and input... (I know there are plenty, just fishing for more)


Thanks,
Alex V.

 

Hey Alex, I am also looking at getting my first Mini near the end of Jan. I am looking at getting the MCS with auto since the wife cant drive manual. I did test drive both and the manual seem to be quicker. I went over to Vista and Lauderdale since I am up in Ft. Lauderdale. Vista seem to be more interested in getting my business and is willing to work me. Where as Lauderdale, they were fine with answering my questions, but had not interest in selling me a car. Go figure. Sorry I couldn't answer your questions but good luck on getting your Mini.

 

I got mine at Braman of West Palm Beach. Treated me real well there. Aftersales support was great too.

 

I got mine from Brad at South Motors. Cool guy, good price along with freebies.

 

We went through Braman Miami, they were excellent during the sales process. They also have a large selection on the lot and are willing to work with you on pricing if you don't want to custom make your Mini.

Their service department has been helpful post-sale. We had to bring the Mini in 3 times for the same problems (stalling and window dip) but they finally fixed it and were extremely apologetic that the fix took so long.

 

MCS ...impressive ... center arm rest ...not so much

 

I'd suggest you look for Limited Slip Differential (LSD) as well. The MCS has a LOT of torque steer, and this helps manage it.

Good luck finding your baby!

 

i got mine in south motors in june. You'll love the car, no question, test driving it will only solidify that. About your leasing predictions.... eh....i wouldn't count on a 1500 down payment to get you the monthly payments you're expecting. i had to drop 2000 to get it to the low 300's with good credit. but im no expert, so talk to them. good luck!

 

Thanks everyone for the reply's...

Things got a bit biusy for me this weekend, but I think I narrowed it down to:
MCS/6-speed/LSD/Sport Suspension/Premium. Lighting Blue.

Anyone have experieince going from a "practical automatice" like a 4-door accord to a sporty 6-speed??? This kinda makes me nervous, but even if I hated (which I doubt) I'm going to lease it... so???

Thanks! I can't wait... [Wifey giving me strange looks already.]

 

You'll love the MINI. One word of caution on the lease - make sure you're comfortable with the total mileage over the term of the contract. We made a HUGE mistake with the lease on our Accord and paid dearly for it when we returned the car at the end of the contract. There may be instances, especially when you're putting lots of miles on a vehicle, when a lease is not the best way to go. Good luck.

 

Especially when you have a MINI--I've got 14,000 miles racked up on mine already, and my commute is measured in feet (I walk down to my family room). This car was delivered mid-February, and it's not our only car!

 

Call Lauderdale MINI. I live in Orlando and I have bought two cars from them instead of my local dealer. Excellent customer service!

 

Use protection.

Oh, I must has misunderstood what you meant by 'doing it'.

I know at least one NAM member has had good luck getting email quotes from various Florida dealers and saving a bunch of money on their car insurance...er...off of MSRP. Well, a bunch of money in MINI terms. I also used this method and it worked out pretty well for me (my local dealer ended up matching the best offer I found elsewhere).

Are you trying to buy off of the lot or order custom? You'll probably be able to get an easier deal off of the lot, but it's possible to get a deal on a custom order (see method above). If you are ordering remember that by now you're probably looking at an '08 production car and the option packages have changed slightly (the Premium is now Auto A/C, Hi-Fi Stereo, Sunroof) but the price should be similar.

I'm personally not too keen on leases, but it sounds like you're well versed with them so go for it. As far as options, I'd consider DSC (included with the sport) especially if you get a manual (also recommended) and the Hi-Fi stereo isn't a bad upgrade (Check it out in person first. Your opinion may vary.)

Once you've picked an exterior color you can have a lot of fun/frustration customizing the interior.

 

I was just waiting for someone to poke fun at the "doing it" reference.