Still looking, and waffling between r52's and 57's. When looking at the r52's how should I weigh vehicle age vs mileage? There are some sporadic 2005-2007 vehicles in the 60,000 mileage range, vs more available in the 90,000 and up range. And so far dealerships in the extended area are primarily offering the s engine if that matters. I've only test driven a 2007s in an automatic and did not enjoy the automatic, and I test drove a 2013 base manual which felt much smoother, there for the waffle, since I know it's apples to oranges with all the differences. Unfortunately dealerships with available vehicles are about 100 miles away.

 

No substitute for test driving the car you are thinking of buying.


That said, condition is probably just as important as age or mileage. Service records are helpful if available after warranty.


R57 addressed some R52 shortcomings, especially rear visibility with roof up.


I just bought R52 with just under 80k miles. Excellent shape, and I knew I wanted the supercharger (I have an R53 MCS, family had an R56 MCS auto, I rented R56 Justa auto for a couple of weeks). The newer car will be smoother, especially if you are comparing 07 to 13, 6 years newer.


The R52 is a little more compact, and more go-kart like. The supercharger is a little more immediate, but the turbo gets better mpg.


If you are trying to buy a car without having driven examples of both, you are doing yourself a disservice.


PM if you want know anything about my R52 that might help your decision.


Regards,
Jerry

 

Definitely R52S. The whine of the SC is intoxicating and the W11 engine and Getrag 6 sp gear box are rock solid. Ours is over 100K now and looking forward to another. When you get it, replace the RSB and struts with a 19 or 22MM adjustable and KONI FSD struts. If you think it's go-cart off the lot, you won't believe the handling after the swap. All in all, topless motoring is absolutely motoring at its best.

 

Average mileage in the US is 16,500 per year, so a 10-year-old, or older car with 60,000 is pretty good!

Drive Hard. Drive Safe. Keep Grinning.

 

Going to test drive 2 Gen1 convertibles tomorrow, 2005s with 94,000 and 2006s with 66,000. I can't find a mini specialist open on a Saturday within 20 miles of where vehicles are located, Can/should I trust a regular garage that is well reviewed? The 2006 is being sold by a MINI Dealership if that makes any difference, although they are not well reviewed...

 

Personally, I might be partial towards the '06 lower mileage version, but the dealer may charge a little more. Might be interesting if they provide any kind of 30 or 90 day warranty with purchase.

Drive Hard. Drive Safe. Keep Grinning.

 

Last year I picked up my 2007 R52S Stick well equipped for $12k at Carmax with 52k miles. But that was October 2015 and about to hit 80k soon

 

Where are you located I have a sidewalk 2007 BRG 6sp manual I am thinking about letting go. Indianapolis area

 

I sided with age.

Got a 2010 R57 automatic with 100k miles a couple weeks ago for $7.7k

 

I don't know if this is normal, so take this for what you will.
My 2005 Mini Cabrio, naturally aspirated, has 224,000 miles. I have been the only owner. Major repairs:
Brakes I typically do myself, $85 for 2 new rotors and pads.
220K Left rear wheel bearing $65, I replaced
212K Clutch $1250
200K oil pressure sensor $80
190K New top ($1950) but due to storm damage, only paid deductible
179K Alternator $325 & new rear calipers $330.00 (2 remans, labor, & I furnished rotors and pads)
95k (under extended warranty) Thermostat housing and suspension bushings.
32K (under warranty) top electrical harness
Mini service till 50K, then I have a mechanic who lets me furnish the part if I choose.
I use Napa Gold/Wix oil filters. Mobil 1 Extended Service oil. I stay pretty close to the on board service counter, about 15K between service. I am going to 10K due to age and may increase service interval. Only use premium gas, any other the timing chain starts going nuts, but goes away with the high octane (found out by accident).

 

That sounds like an extremely reliable car to have relatively few repairs with so many miles. Congrats!

Drive Hard. Drive Safe. Keep Grinning.