I just acquired a Craigslist 2005 MCS. I have spent the last 18 years enjoying a 97 Miata right up until an ice-cream truck totaled it, while parked! I decided I wanted a slightly larger car, with a roof, that had the personality and driving fun factor of the old NA Miata, so picked up a slightly rough 2005 Cooper S with 75K miles for a great price as the Miata replacement (I nearly went the Mazda3 route).

I'm sure I'll be here with many questions. Oh... I'm in Northern California.

BTW a Miata engine bay now seems positively spacious in comparison to my new ride!

To show my age, I used to own a 72 Mini 1000.

Cheers!

 

Hi and welcome to the NAM family! I am sure you will enjoy your Mini, once the maintenance is caught up.
Make sure to look in the gen 1 area, as it will have everything you want to know about your Mini!
Congrats!
Now: where are the pics?

 

Thanks Wayne!
Pics are coming when it stops raining and I have given it a bit of TLC. Tree sap removal, clay bar and a wax.
I already ordered a serpentine belt tool and a belt, so that will be the first maintenance job as I have no idea how old the belt is.
I'm not seeing any signs of coolant leaks, so the plastic bits all seem to be in good shape.

 

Welcome, we need pics of this 2005 R53

 

Welcome that's a good low mileage find. Too bad the Miata is gone as I've had a few and they are great.

 

congratulations and welcome

 

Welcome to Club MINI.