Hello everyone!
I am hoping to join the mini community very soon but was wondering what everyone's expert opinion was. I have done a search and read a lot about problems regarding CVT transmissions as well as the older (02-03) gearboxes (CVT, 6 speed and 5 speed). I have also read much about some opinions regarding these factors (this site is a wealth of knowledge!). I currently am faced with a difficult decision then.
1. 06 mini cooper convertible, CVT automatic, 80k miles, $8k. Carfax: clean, 1 previous owner. (I like that its newer, but dont care for teh convertible option or automatic)
2. 02 mini cooper S, 6 speed, 90k miles, $8k. Carfax: clean, 3 previous owners
(I like that its the supercharged version and manual, but dont like that its older).

I know that it seems with the newer gearbox, the newer minis are generally more reliable (06), but in general CVT is more problematic than the 6speed in the S. But although the 6speed is more reliable, this would be in an older mini. what would you all choose? I dont know if might be useful but I am currently a grad student, will bedoing mainly city driving, and would prefer to have reliability (dont want to buy a new transmission! wouldnt we all?). any input would be appreciated, thanks!

 

Not sure but I think the auto was changed in either 05-06, so may not be a CVT. If it is, STAY AWAY from it! You don't need a $6k repair bill. I have heard of no problems with either the 5-6 speed manuals? You said you don't need a convertible, so why risk having to repair that too? If you only have those two to choose from I would go with the 02. But why not look around and try to find a 05-06 MCS? They are out there for good prices

 

If you found an 06 convertible for $8k w/automatic, I would consider looking for the 06 hatchback with the 6 speed manual for the same price instead.

 

Check the buyers guide on motoringfile.com. It should help answer you questions on the pro's and cons of the two cars. I would ask the owners, if it was a private sale, what they used for fuel. If they say anything other than premium, I'd walk. Too many stories of cracked pistons, broken rings, cracked or blown heads to chance it IMO.
Also drive both cars, they are kinda different, and know more and differnt mini's will pop up for sale...no reason to think you are backed into a corner and make a bad descession.

 

All 05-06 regular Minis with the auto are CVT. I agree, go for the S!

 

Personally I would not own a MINI Cooper with a CVT. If you want an automatic buy an 05 or 06 MCS. For the most fun buy a 6 speed. Just my .02 here.

Good luck on your search.

 

well, it seems the sentiment right now is that I should go with the MCS, and if anything, wait for a newer 05/06 MCS...and at all possible avoid the CVT. I read through the motoringfile and it seems that it recommends that I should get something 2004 and up, preferably the 6 speed (auto or manual), then 5 speed, and lastly the CVT auto. seems to agree with all the above posts...I will test drive both this weekend and if not satisfied, hopefully some MCS 2004 and up will pop up soon (preferable in the $10k range )! Other input is always welcomed, thanks!

 

Yeah I think you are on the right path now. Look for a clean good running '04 MCS or '05 MC with manual tranny. Under 10K? Good chance.

 

I own an 06 w/CVT and really cannot recommend it. It's a ticking time bomb.

 

If there's an '06 for only $8k, theres a reason why. That CVT is most likely toast. Check out KBB prices for private party. Best advice when buying anything: if its too good to be true, it probably is.

 

well, i finally found a good deal and went with it. it was a 2005 Mini cooper with 46,000 miles, 5 speed for 10k. bringing it home today, excited! Thanks for all the great advice...I think I got everything I needed, avoided the CVT, got a newer mini with decent miles and price.

 

Photos when you get a chance! Congrats!

 

Congrats...
Is it "just a cooper" or an "S"?
Any option packages added on?

 

If you plan to drive it like a normal person the 5 speed will hold up fine, but don't be to hard on it, because they can't take ANY extra abuse. I am looking into upgrading to a 2006 Cooper S from my 2006 Cooper mainly because the crappy little 5speed that can't handle any extra mods.

My .02. Anyway, congrats. PICS???

 

well, i live in the city so i dont plan on driving anywhere fast. plus i need this to be a reliable car to get from place to place (im a grad student), so I wont be modifying anything I dont think. What do you mean this car cant take any abuse? Also any tips on what I need to do to for maintenance? Im going to give it a complete overhaul this weekend: new transmission fluid, oil change, new tires....are there specific brands i need exactly or will any shop be able to do such standard maintenance? Ill try to get some pics up...busy busy busy

 

My 03 Cooper was my wife's daily driver, and I "cleaned out the carbon" on the weekends. It lasted many many miles, and we sold it at 90k for a Cooper S. So long as you keep up with maintenance, you'll be fine.