What's a good year for the R56 builds for a Justa?

I know later is better, but later also means pricier. I'm on a budget, so would an '08 or '07 be good?

 

A general rule of thumb, avoid the dirst year of a new model. So that leaves out 2007's.

Justa's seem to have less issues than the S's, but they have a lot less performance.


I would have any car you are considering, inspected by someone that KNOWS Mini's. Get a prepurchase inspection, and probably not at a dealer. Paying $150-$200 now could save you a lot more in the long run.

 

Hey, watch it with the "leaves out 07". Mine was built 11/07 and retail date was 12/07. I've had pretty good luck with mine so far. Had it since August 2011. I have had to replace thermostat and the timing chain issue which the dealer (did not buy from them) covered the cost. Car had no more warranty.
I've put on about 5K since ownership. Love it.

 

Dr.... you an't no Justa!
My 2008 is doing well so far with little over 36k on it. Bought it in oct.2010 used from a mom an pop car dealer, and still has factory warrenty through march.. that maybe something to consider as well- Get a late model 08 or 09 and you'll have some FREE coverage left on it (if mileage is below 50k).

 

I'll just add that used isn't always cheaper when everything is considered. Just bought a 2012 MCa justa at a $1,500 discount off MSRP and financed it 100% at 2.99% at my credit union. Sold my prior paid-off DD for an amount that makes the payments for the first 3 years on the new ride. Net result is I get to drive a brand new 2012 MCa for free for the first three years, because it comes with the full warranty and maintenance for three years as well.

Something to consider if you have good credit with rates as low as they are in this bad economy. I've seen used priced higher than I paid for new. New can be good and NET cheaper!

If you go used a qualified pre-inspection is a must IMHO. Happy shopping...

 

+1 on BlackIce's comments. The later model MINIs seem to be holding their market values rather well (at least MINI and non-Mini dealers apparently think so), so if you're considering buying a used '09 or '10 model, you might as well also consider buying a new one.

However, if you're considering a somewhat older MC, Consumer Reports reliability and problem areas reports indicate that the '07 MCs (first year of the Gen2s) actually have fewer trouble spots (better reliability) than the '06s (last year of the Gen1s). Body Hardware (windows, locks, latches, etc.) seems to be the main problem area that still plagues the MC. Overall, the Gen2 MCs have "average" reliability, while the Gen2 MCSs have "worse than average" reliability.