This thread is not being started to discuss whether or not the MINI will one day become a classic or collector car. That has been discussed in other forums, no need to repeat here.

But IF it were to become a classic car in the future, would having a Launch Edition Mini raise its value at all?

 

This is the first I've heard of a Launch Edition.

Based on what I've seen of Speed channel's coverage of Barret-Jackson auctions, the most important contributors to a collector car's value are originality (i.e. no mods), low mileage/good condition and rarity.

Looks like there were only 500 Launch Editions, so I would say you're doing well on the rarity side. Keep it original and stop driving it, and maybe someday you'll be able to make some money on it.

The only downside to the Launch (from my Google search) is that I think it is a Cooper, not an S. At auctions, the big money goes for the cars with the big engines. In light of that, a well-preserved, original 2002 S might end up being more desirable.

 

I would agree with that from watching the same auctions. But also important, as Brock Yates keeps pointing out, is original documentation. In other words, the original sale receipt, the original sticker ... in that way it has provenence.

As to mods, the cars with Original parts ALWAYS fetch the higher price (I hope you kept the original intake, exhaust, and wheels). There are some kinds that have been "modernized". When they go for a high price, Yates points out the buyer hasn't got a clue as to what he/she is buying. Otherwise, the sell price is substantially lower.

The number of miles doesn't seem to matter that much unless its outrageous and abused.

Rarity is very important. The fact they sold maybe 22K Minis the first year makes it, well, a lot of them. The fact the car is 1 of 500 makes it "rare" within the model year. It would the same as getting a Mustang vice a Shelby GT350 except, of course, the GT350 was much quicker than a regular Mustang ... and that is the downside to MINIs "special edition cars". NO go quicker goodies.

Lesson learned ... if you want it to be "collectable" and do make modifications, be sure you can put it all back together the way it came from the factory That INCLUDES tires. Take a look at some of those old tires on the muscle cars

 

Good to know, thanks. I was wondering if I would be kicking myself 25 years from now for selling my Launch Edition to make way for an S, but I dont have the original tires, wheels, exhaust, or intake any longer, so I guess it doesnt matter anyway (though i am sure i could find the replacents.) I think I was just looking for reasons not to sell. Does any one else have any input on the Launch Edition possibly becoming a collectible?