http://fredericksburg.craigslist.org...259996683.html

Opinions and advice welcome. Looks and drives Might from a quick test drive and first time mini owner. Thanks. Motor on.

 

Find out the last 7 of VIN so you can look up build specifications and ask which JCW Tuning Kit (200bhp or 210bhp) is installed. Knowing all options you can price the car at KBB.

Have the car inspected by a MINI specialist before purchasing.

 

The 03 JCW kits where dealer installed packages, which started at the motor and worked their way up to suspension, aero and exhaust packages.

I don't know if the VIN lookup will actually help you with determining which one you have as the packages or parts there of, could be installed anytime after the initial purchase.

I have an 03 JCW and it has everything except the aero package. I am the second owner and was lucky enough to get all service information as this car was dealer serviced from day one, and still is.

It's very important for these engines to have regular oil changes to extend their longevity.

My engine just flipped over 120,000 hard miles miles with oil changes every 3,000 miles and preventative supercharger maintenance at 118,000 miles.

Grem....

 

Check out the R53 Buyers Guide at:
http://www.motoringfile.com/mini-r50r53-buyers-guide/

I have had a 2003 and 2006. Depending on pricing, I would suggest a 2005 or 2006 over a 2003. 05/06 have shorter 1st/2nd gears and adjustable rear camber.

 

Thank for the speedy replies. Expected nothing less from you Mini guys! Forgot to write down the vin, but I am also leaning toward newer...dont really need the JCW, and would really rather have a 3 spoke wheel. No service records, but there was a JIFFY LUBE sticker in the window!!!

 

I really much prefer the look of the 3 spoke steering wheel as well. Plus the '05-'06 have most of the kinks worked out.

 

I am going to to be Mini-less still. Passing on this one. FWIW, it looked good and the seller seems fair and square. Some one else might want to grab this up. I'll help from VA if I can - I have a few pics from my test drive too. Practically speaking I still need room to haul the kids to all their activities for a couple more years, as well as commute. I know my teens would love to take over my MLC car next year though! Hope I dont have to get another boring car

 

Jcw is nice but you can easily top that power with a couple mods. I'd go 05-06, the gear ratios really make it a different car.

 

Good advice. Im heading back to a dealer soon and look over the newer ones. Need a 4dr, just don't want to spend the big bucks.