Hello! I'm looking to get a little (more) advice here... I have an 03 mc, I was debating an ext. warranty to take some of the burden off me if 'big things go wrong', but then I started thinking maybe I should just get a whole new car! So, my 1st thought was an 06 mcs (since they seem least buggy and I prefer 1st gen) but I have now come across an 05mcs w/23k miles on it for 'bout 16k, which seems pretty good to me?? So to get to my actual question, is there much defference between an 05vs06? As far as problems go, should I wait for an 06 or try to jump on this 05!! Any suggestions?

Thanks a bunch

 

I doubt that there is much difference unless you are talking the automatic. The 6 speed automatic from what I understand was first introduced in the '05 MCS. Probably the only difference for the automatic would be entirely software related that could be applied to either an '05 or '06. My wife's '05 MCSa has a hesitation when cold that my '06 MCS doesn't have and various software updates have failed to cure this entirely.

Beyond that, I've seen about the same issues with both cars (leaking passenger motor mount, coolant leak from the thermostat housing). Some '05s had an issue with the clock losing time (our '05 had the central speedo replaced for this) and the '05 has had a problem with the MINI emblem on the steering wheel curling up (been replaced twice and still an issue). My '06 had an issue with transmission noise that was fixed by replacement of the fluid (a some what common issue with the LSD).

 

I just noticed this on my new (used) MCS 05 and wondered what it meant? Glue problem? Bad emblem? How do you try and fix? Rip it off, bend it back, and reglue it or do you try and get a new emblem?

Minor I know, but kind of annoying when it is staring you in the face like that.

 

sounds like a great deal on the 05 to me!!! Same price as mine and mine had more miles. the things that have gone wrong on mine are: leaky power steering pump which MINI goodwilled and fixed for free, windows started rolling down all on their own (programming problem, MINI fixed for free), and wheel bearing replacement. I would go with the 05 at that price as long as you like the look of it and no major damages to interior/exterior.

 

Here's some information that may be helpful: http://www.motoringfile.com/mini-r50r53-buyers-guide/

 

Aside from some colors and trim options (Like Checkmate pack) the '05 & '06s are virtually identical cars. I am very happy with mine and to me either of these years were the best of the bunch.

 

Thanks for the info guys! I emailed them earlier to try and set a test drive... so we'll see how it goes! **Fingers crossed** This one is a manual, which will take some getting used to for me since driving auto, but it's what I want anyhow... and the more I read the more I want it! I can handle the minor issues, as long as the car doesn't explode when I turn the key then I'll be happy. I'm used to annoying steering wheels since the leather on my 03 is all peely and the emblem's pitted (I don't what the previous owner was doing?!). Anyhow, thanks again!

 

Aaaaaand of course they already sold it this morning

 

How does purchasing an 05/06 help you if "big things go wrong"? They both would have used up the free maintanence(maybe 06 has some left) and the year or so left on the factory warranty does not justify the jump. Are you hoping the 05/06 would be less risky than the 03?

Wouldn't a jump to an 07 or 08 MC be a safer bet? I see some 07 going for 15-17k.

 

Because the 05/06 mcs won't have the CVT (which my 03 cooper has) that a lot of people have trouble with? Plus I wanted an "S" to begin with but circumstances at the time of my 1st Mini purchase wouldn't allow it. So if I got one now at least I would be putting money into the car I really wanted as opposed to the one I kind of settled for... And as for an 07\08 unfortunately I do not care for the styling... I just prefer the 1st gen...