I was in your position, trying to get the newest R53 I could find for under $13-14k. I was looking at an 05 MCS w/ 85k miles for the same price ($12.5k) as an '04 MCS w/ 50k miles. I opted for the peace of mind of 35k less miles. Both had about the same options, and were in similar condition. When it comes down to it, you can find a nice 03-04, but you just need to keep an eye out and spend a little more time having a mechanic check it out.

Be patient. I was VERY VERY close to getting an '04 JCW w/ 48k miles or so for $12k from a dealer, and it had a clean carfax. Luckily, I went against my impulsive tendencies and had MINI look at it. Though it looked to be in pristine condition, MINI told me it had been in a huge accident and every panel on the left, headlight, boot etc all had to be replaced. Also the frame was bent. Be patient.

Side note, not sure if its true in every state, but here in Illinois private party taxes were only $116, where as at the dealership, the same year MCS would have cost $1,400 or so in tax / license. Also, private party KBB is usually $1k or so less anyway. Just my $0.15

 

Sorry, I don't have the information with me. I believe you can get the kit from MINI. There is wiring already in the steering wheel, but there is some more work that has to be done too. It can be time consuming, but can be done. Maybe somebody else can help you for now, if not, I will get you the info when I get home.

 

It's hectic here!! Thanks for the thoughts!!!

 

Thanks burley,

So what kind of repairs did/have you run into with your '04?

 

None so far (fingers crossed). While haggling with the seller, I had him throw in a 50k mile service / tune, so all belts, plugs, wires, etc were all replaced. I had the mechanic check all the major issues MINI had in 02-05.

Check out the Buyer's Guide from MotoringFile.com.

http://www.motoringfile.com/mini-r50r53-buyers-guide/

I had the mechanic check the following:

-Coolant expansion tank
-Strut mounts
-Crank seal / gasket / crank sensor
-Power steering pump
-Brakes / Alignment
-Clutch

If anyone wants to add to the mechanic's checklist, feel free.

 

Well Fellas,

I took the car my mechanic today, and here said the only thing that was not in good condition was the lower fan speed on the radiator fan. I am going to try to have the dealer take care of this. He quoted me about $600 or $700 dollars.

Other than that everything else was in very good condition. Some major things I made sure he checked were the struts, bushings, power steering pump/fan, overall condition of the suspension and for stuff like bad hoses belts and rust. I think I might get it since it has been taken care of so well. IDK what do you guys think?

 

Good for the 1st 80k miles, may it be good to you for the next 80k miles

 

You've heard a few opinions already. I would hold out for something w/ less miles personally. If you really like the facelift, you could always buy the headlights separately. IF you do get this car, you really need to have a look at the Crank seal / gasket / crank sensor. It might not leak so theres oil on the driveway, but just when you're moving and you'll never know you're losing oil. Cheap / easy fix, big problem if not caught.