I have 2007 BRG/Black Cooper S, 6 speed w/mechanical locking diff, xenons, dual rear fog lights and the usual other stuff but no BT, etc. It has 71k on it and most if not all the really bad stuff has been replaced within the last 10k miles, e.g., timing chain assembly, water pump assembly, turbo water pump, turbo heat shield. I related the pads f/r with Hawk Blues in the last 6 months. The car runs great and gets decent mpg, 26-28, even though I drive it "like I stole it." It has a few minor issues like the hood scoop buckled up (before I bought it) a little; the interior screens for the sunroof are worthless (installed the semi-permanent suction cup shields); the sun visors (now on the passenger side) is broke as is the little door over the pass. vanity mirror; and the hood stripes are somewhat "motley". But, everything works! The A/C is great (Climate Control), auto lights, wipers, radio, CD.
But here's the rub. I could get a newer/new Mini and let this guy go, but just can't make up my mind. I wouldn't mind a 2012-13 JCW if the color was decent and it was equally equipped. Speed really isn't a big issue as my days of autocross (Miata, RX-8, Z4, Cayman S) are pretty much behind me. I've tracked, raced, done the Dragon and all the things that require $$$$, skill, timing, etc. Now I just want to go out with some fun and character. "All my friends drive Porsches" and I've had 8 different Benzes in days past. I know all the advice stuff about cars one likes that don't stay in the garage; no car is perfect; yadayadayada. I've never leased and don't plan to now (even though I should). So. Should I keep on keeping' on with this bad boy? Get some things fixed? The service manger (racer) at the Mini dealer I used says the clutch is good for 150k and seeing as it's a little rare, I should keep it.
What says the faithful? Am I on a fools errand?

 

Sounds like you've been taking great care of your MINI. A '13 JCW is also a great MINI. I guess it really just depends on one question. What do you really want? Do you want to keep fixing up this MINI and have it for years to come or are you ready to upgrade and try something new-er? A lot of people will tell you their opinions and suggest what you should do, but in the end, it really is what you are wanting and what will make you happy.

 

As I noted, the dealer seemed to think the diff made this one a keeper. "It has a very aggressive mechanical locking differential. It's essentially a racing transmission." is what he said. Then he added, "it's as rare as hen's teeth." Checking the VIN confirmed the equipment.

 

Does it make you smile every time you get behind the wheel?

If yes, keep it. If no, sell it.

 

If you have the funds get the JCW version, its allot of fun. Good luck.