Mileage suitable for an R53 MCS

[LeeP-CS]

Hi all

I'm presently in the market for a 2005/2006 MCS. My budget was around £6k originally with few cars showing less than 50k miles on them at this.

The purpose of the car for me will be a weekend fun car, occasional track day / hill climb. I've had an R53 Cooper S before (54 plate) and the entire driving experience was superb. I've tried a 2007 MCS just to say I've had the experience and it felt, well, flat in comparison.

Anyway, back to my question. What mileage is suitable for these cars to start tinkering with? I'm hoping to get a GTT220/230 system added on, as well as brakes, braces and suspension. It'll be serviced regularly by me and my friend with oil and filters every 5k regardless and then main servicing by BMW. I guess key is to get a good base car - but what milage is appropriate. I'm off to view one tomorrow which has 31k for £6600. Another is £6700 for 45k - both similar specs?! Then there are cars with 70k plus for less than £6k but are they too much of a risk?

Any advice here greatly appreciated - feels like trying to pick a needle out of a bowl full of needles!!

Lee

[minicore]

My 05-plate Cooper S JCW had nearly 50k on when I sold it and I never had any trouble with it.

Realistically, the first big bill to be worrying about would be a new/reconditioned supercharger at around 100k...

[solidsponge]

Should be able to get one private for £6k with low miles, but just have to be patient. 70k seems a bit high for £6k, maybe look at 54 plates like your old one, wont be much difference, but may get a lower mile one.

MINIs are sometimes VASTLY overpriced in garages by the way.