So picked up my first Mini. Been big in Hondas for last 20yrs so wanted to go a different route. Picked up a '12 R59 Roadster base with lite front end damage. Been going through replacing damage as I can find parts. The Mrs. likes it enough now she wants one. So picked up an '02 Mini hatch that needs some love. N12 motor runs great and is quiet no chain slap. First on list is brakes peddle has no pressure believe it's a bad ABS unit. It's not the keeper car I want for her. Shes partial to Pepper White so this is a flip car. Here are pics of my Minis.

 

If you're looking for an early R53 you should think about a 2005 (mine is a limited edition 2004). Mini made improvements yearly and I understand from forum owners that that year is the best.