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Think its a good buy? What should I look for / listen for if I go look at it? Regardless of the message about it not passing inspection, I have been assured that it does.
Looks pretty clean in the images and some good mileage. Always a good reference point is this buyers guide HERE, which will help you look out for common issues with that year R50. It's also a really good idea to get a PPI done by a MINI specialist before you purchase if you're able to.
I like the new price too - thats why I'm thinking of going after it. They said they won't let me take it to Mini for a PPI but if I agree to buy it, I can take it to Mini and they will guarantee that it will pass inspection.
Last edited by MiniTigger; Oct 7, 2015 at 03:02 PM.
Price seems quite high to be honest, you can get an S of the same year for that price, in good condition.
Bav, I hear you about the S .. but truth be told, I've read and heard that I should not consider an S unless it's from 04-06 with the 6 speed GetRag trans. I've also read and heard that the base models are fairly good from each year but even better 04-06. I should also stay away from automatic CVT models.
I like the new price too - thats why I'm thinking of going after it. They said they won't let me take it to Mini for a PPI but if I agree to buy it, I can take it to Mini and they will guarantee that it will pass inspection.
It appears to be a manual transmission, which is good and means that it's not a CVT.
The only problem is if you're not going to do your own repairs...it can get costly. There will be problems with a car that is 13-years old.
I can do some maintenance .. and I'm always up for learning. In addition, because this would be a 2nd car, if it breaks, its not as urgent to get fixed. I'm aware that there will be problems - I'm just hoping it won't be nickel and dime stupid problems. I want to enjoy it, not dump tons of money into it. If thats the case, it'd be better to wait for a later model.
I've read and heard that I should not consider an S unless it's from 04-06 with the 6 speed GetRag trans. I've also read and heard that the base models are fairly good from each year but even better 04-06.
The 1st Gen manual transmission that has had problems is the Midlands unit in Cooper models built prior to July 2004.
1st Gen Cooper S models have always had a 6-speed Getrag transmission, it's just that 2005 and 2006 models are geared for slightly better acceleration.
Cooper models got a 5-speed Getrag transmission beginning with 2005 model year production.
If you're not allowed to do a PPI, then:
- Low Oil (check the level - a must)
- Leaking fluids (look from underneath too)
- CHECK ENGINE or other warning light on
- A problem during the test drive
- Dealer will not give you the Carfax (for FREE)
- If it's an automatic transmission (CVT)
I think at 4500, being a 2002 justa, it's not s good buy. The price is too high, I see facelift S models in good condition going for around this price. Just have to look a little more for the right one, I'm not saying buy an S model just using it for price comparison.
Bav, I understand what you're saying. Miniac, thanks for the info. I'll see if they'll bargain on price. As you saw, it was initially 7k and I told them they were nuts. I saw it dropped today and got a little excited.
