Hi all,

This is my first time on here, but I was wondering if I could get your guys' opinions on a Mini Cooper-S that I am considering buying. The details that I know for the car are that it is a 2004 S with about 106k miles on it. They have it listed at around $9,500. Are there any specifics I should look into or ask for as far as maintenance, problems/issues, etc.?

Also, as far as comfort goes, does someone that is 6' 3" fit into the car comfortably? I have driven a 2008 and fit comfortably in that, but didn't know if there were many changes in the sizes from generation to generation.

Thanks for any help you guys can give!

 

Have the car inspected by a knowledgeable independent Mini mechanic. Get as much paperwork regarding its service history. At that mileage there are a lot of relatively expensive things that can go wrong.

 

I am 6'2 and drive a R53 and R56 regularly without any issues, even on long trips. That mileage is certainly not low, look for oil pan gasket leaks, crank sensor leaks, rust in the door sills and a smooth running motor. That is high mileage, but we have a MINI in our club with 213k on it and it is still ticking. They are good cars and as long as they are taken care of, they will last. I'll make you a killer deal on a 2008 in my Sig with 70k if you are interested, let me know.

 

Also at that mileage you may want to look at the clutch, front suspension parts such as ball joints and bushings. Replacing them is a lot of labor.

 

You've asked for opinions so here goes: You'd be much better off with a 2005 or 2006 with at or under 50k miles. Better gear ratios. There are too many MCS's out there for sale to consider a car with that many miles for that amount of money. Keep looking, spend more, get more. If you've got your heart set on that particular car, offer $7,000 and keep the difference handy...You'll need it. Oh, yeah...You'll fit just fine. The seat goes wayyyy back, then jack it down. You've got enough headroom to wear a helmet with space to spare.

 

Keep looking.

 

Compression test is a must,If engine is anything less then 170psi I would find another car.I picked one up with 97,000 that ran but had low compression ended up needing a new engine