Ladies and Gentlemen, I think I my get me a Mini. I have driven both and my driving style (not a speed demon) enables me to strongly consider the base Mini. I am picky though, if I buy used it MUST be very clean!

I located one locally. It is very clean, no damage, low mileage, etc. It is an automatic (CVT). Mileage is low and car seems to have been cared for.

If you don't mind, could you please give some guidance on if it is wise to buy an 04 auto. I may do this tomorrow........

2004 Mini Base
Price $18,950
Mileage 26,832
Transmission Automatic
VIN WMWRC33424TJ59716

Thanks!

I just bought an 04 Mini almost exactly the same as this from a private party seller. It's silver, but it looks like it has most of the same options, and the mileage was about the same.

Sunroof, Cd player, Auto-air, driving lights, pretty much loaded to the gills except for navigation (previous owner even bought all the mini cooper rubber floor mats and addon cupholder).

She was originally asking $18,000, but I got her down to $16,500.

http://flickr.com/photos/cgilbert/se...7606793839763/

For the past 2 months it's been a great car. I've always wanted one, especially since my parents had one.
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I guess the only thing I would be concerned about is the CVT, but I haven't noticed anything weird about mine yet, although I would take it for a long test drive and make sure it's not "jerky" or does anything weird. I have noticed that my CVT is more happy on the "open road" than in stop and go city traffic.

I would also check out a CarFax report...you don't want any surprises on a $18,000 investment.

$13k sounds more reasonable.

Tazio,

Do you think the car depreciated THAT MUCH in a few years?

If they depreciate that much, everyone else must be wrong when they say the Mini has great value retention among the automotive industry.

Cagilber,

That is a clean looking Mini! Glad to hear you are enjoying it, and yes it does look about on the same scale as the one I am looking at.

I doubt you'd get it for $13K. $15K-$16K maybe. It depends on local demand. One thing I found out is that someone will buy it sooner than later. It is a matter of being ready to pull-the-trigger when you find one you like. If your just kicking tires then offer $13K and see what happens.
I looks like it must have some options like cruise control. What are the other controls on the wheel? My '04 has a different looking MFSW. Also it looks like the pass side mirror glass is missing. It looks clean otherwise.
If you get it, you may decide to get it into a MINI dealer to have the trans fluid changed by 30K miles. I purchased an extended warranty "just in case" but I seem to be in the minority of those that has had decent luck with them.
Best of luck with your decision.

I bought mine 04 MCS for $13k from a dealer.... not the drug kind.
Mojo had about 65k on the clock with mint paint and a jacked up passenger seat ( easy fix after reading the boards)

SteveB625,

Steering Wheel controls for Stereo and Cruise.

You are correct, the passenger mirror is on order. I guess it fell out??

Check the service record with dealer (cvt fixed)

Yes. They must all be wrong.

$13k would be a good deal and I honestly don't think you should pay more than $16k for this car.