hey guys, I am currently looking at getting into my first mini. Definitly looking into the Mini cooper S just because I am coming from a bigger engine sports car. I have this one that I am looking at and would like some opinions from people that know what they are talking about. So here it is. http://phoenix.craigslist.org/nph/cto/4820819499.html. Its an 03 with a 06 engine. The new engine as 40k miles on it. I asked him why it was swapped out and he said because the old one had a bunch of miles. I've got him down to 7k on the price. What do you guys think? I have no experience with mini's so please dont be rude because i have no clue what I am looking for. Thanks in advanced.

 

How many miles are on the rest of the car?

 

I wanna say he said like 140k. I just asked him so waiting for a reply to get the exact.

 

It looks like the NADA value on a car that year and that mileage in that ZIP code is $6450. An engine swap will have no bearing on the value of the vehicle.

 

Looks in good shape from the pics. I'd say it would be worth spending some money having a mechanic look at it. Someone that specializes in imports (or mini's.) Looks like an AZ plate, how's the paint and under the hood look?

 

I'd run away as fast as possible. Don't like the answer to the engine swap and avoid modified cars as much as possible. I'd rather do the mods as needs and budget allow.

 

Yeah I would definitely take it someplace that specializes in Mini's to have it looked over.

 

If you're serious, I would get it inspected. You are looking at buying a 12-13 year old mini and these cars can be real money pits. EuroTech is in Tempe, I use Scotts Motorworks here in north Phoenix. Like Grizld said, an engine with 40k on it really doesn't add much value. New or rebuilt would add a bit..

 

I say keep looking. Price is still seems high and if you look around more you will find a better looking one. The body kit and lights are kinda ....ugh. Be patient!

 

It looks a little trashed. What's up with the flared fenders? I prefer the stock look personally. Not a huge fan of the black either. The engine swap might be a red flag as well. I'd keep looking.

 

Alright. Appreciate all the help and opinions. Just what I needed. Thanks.

 

When you buy a used car, you are buying the previous owners as much as the car.


I think I'd rather buy a car with a lot of miles and mods that had an owner like me, (****, meticulous, stacks of records for parts and maintenance), than a lower mileage car with no history at all...


On the other hand... I own 3 cars a motorcycle, and a truck, have a lift in the garage, and an awesome set of tools.. So I don't have to buy anything remotely reliable. (which all of my vehicles are...) If I could only have one, and it had to be reliable, it probably wouldn't be a R50 with 140+K on it...

 

The most important part of your purchase: a pre-purchase inspection from a qualified mechanic. It'll be the best $100 you spend. It's a PITA, but do it.

 

If the body kit wasn’t enough to send you running away screaming

A few huge red flags:

Recently repainted
Standard Cooper seats
The front bumper looks like a standard cooper bumper

 

That is one ugly body kit