I am looking to get a Mini in the next week or two. I have been looking at year model 2003-2008 in a manual and the S model. Are there any years to stay away or any tips on what to look for and what to avoid?

 

Welcome to NAM, cru9 and good luck on your search for the perfect MINI. I'm sure some of our MINI experts will be along shortly to give your their advise on the best model years.

 

Avoid the CVT automatics in the early cars.

Think hard about if you want a 2007-2008 S model. The turbocharged engine is fun, but has proven to be more problematic on average than the naturally-aspirated non-S engines or than the supercharged S engines (used up through 2006, or through 2008 on the convertible).

Any way you go, it should be a hoot to drive. And the added fun factor of the more powerful turbo'd S may make it worth the higher odds of having problems with that. Depends in part on what you want from a car.

 

I am for sure getting a manual. Can you explain the year models and super charged verse Turbo. What years are what? I take it S is for supercharger. What is a turbo called or what model

 

I think the "S" is for Sport. Others might say Speedy...

Anyway, the 02 - 06 S cars are supercharged, 07 & after have turbos (except for the 07 - 08 drop tops - I think they're supercharged too). Superchargers provide forced air induction via a mechanical system (a pulley) while turbos do the same thing but using waste gases as the force. Some say turbos are better as they don't leech horsepower from the engine, but a turbo will have some lag, and the SC has an awesome whine to it.

Check the First Gen Buyer's Guide on MotoringFile here. You'll find lots of useful tips on common issues & things to look for.

If you find a good prospect at a used car lot or other dealership, take it to a MINI dealer or an experienced independent shop for a pre-purchase inspection. $150'ish up front but very well spent.

Good luck with your hunt!

 

Get one bobby, then maybe you can keep up with me