Hello,

I've finally decided to trade in my old 08 VW R32 and get another MINI!!! :D

I pulled a trigger on a nicely equipped 2013 Mini Coupe S. I'm waiting for it to get here (will be about a week) and have a policy question.

My monthly rate for 3 cars with 07 R56 with 20k miles at time of purchase for 17k was $180. When I got the R32 (much more aggressive) with 36k for 28k, it had gone up to $206.

Question is, with the brand new $30k car, do I expect that premium to go up or down? Allstate's system is down and I couldn't get a figure right now.

Just wondering with opinions.

Also, they did not want to go less than MSRP on the car... is that normal or should I try another dealer? There is one close who has a Cooper S Bayswater that is fully loaded for 1k more.

Thanks,

Paul

A lot of things determine your policy rate, so it's anyone's guess how much it could go up (if up at all; mine didn't but I'm in my 40's with no past tickets, accidents etc.).

As to paying sticker price; this is a 2013 model, and the year just started. Not a lot of bargaining there, as they are probably still getting the 90day maintenance stipend from corporate. Check the build date on the car. Most folks are unaware that the dealership gets flat rate dollar amount per car to maintain it (wash, detail etc.) on the lot. If it sells early, they still keep the $'s for keeping it clean. Of course, after 90 days (or 120, depending on manufacturer) then it comes out of the delaership's pocket to keep it clean. I don't know for a fact Mini/BMW work this way, just that most dealerships of other brands do.

First part of bargaining is knowing how much they paid for it, and how long they've had it on the lot...

JMTCW...

I have it on good authority that some dealerships are struggling to unload their 2012 models, even after discounting them several grand. But that may not affect 2013's as much. So if you're looking for a deal, consider the leftovers if they have any.

As for insurance, my insurance did not change much from my '05 MCS to my '09 Mazdaspeed3 to me '12 MCS Coupé. All within $20 a month of each other. I also happen to be just over 40 and carry far more than minimum coverages.

If you are a Costco member, I would try their program. I got a very nice discount on a 2013 JCW convertible through the Costco program. No haggling.

My dad who is 67 is the only one on policy (Allstate). I called and the insurance is supposed to drop $88 for 6 months.