[miked378]

Hi Mini experts--

Thanks to a recent accident, I find myself in the car market, and finally have the excuse I've been waiting for to buy a MINI!

I'll most likely be buying a used Cooper, 2004 to 2006. I was wondering if there might be a run-down somewhere of what the changes are year-to-year, or if all of you thought there was some compelling reason why I should avoid one model year or another.

Any advice would be greatly appreciated! I can't wait to join the club!

[jimmy_racoon]

try this one:

MotoringFile | MINI Cooper news, reviews and opinion.

Now get that MINI you always wanted!!

[miked378]

Thanks! That's definitely a good overview. From what I've read (there and elsewhere), it sounds like 2005 was the big year as far as changes to the Cooper. I just went and had a second test drive of a 2004 Cooper today, and had fun. In your opinions, is there anything I'll really miss out on by getting an '04 rather than an '05?

Thanks again!

[jimmy_racoon]

Getting a MINI, instead of any other car is a great first move.

As far as the '04/'05 dilemma, it is what feels good to you that matters.

Me, I love to shift, so the gear box was a big point for me. Try both and see what you like.

I also like minor stuff like the anthracite headliner for the interior, and the "facelift" outside.

I am bias since I own an '05 and of course think it is the best year ever.

It is a classic in it's own time and I'd never think of getting anything after an '06 (until they fix the interior components-especially the speedometer!)

But it is your money and your experience-get the MINI you want!

[Tigger, Eeyore & Roo]

The model change occured in July 2004. There are a number of changes, but a definitive one is that pre July '04 cars had the clock mounted on the ceiling and post July '04's had them mounted next to the mileometer.

Having owned a pre-facelift Cooper and a post-facelift Cooper S I've found that some of the changes were improvements and some of them were backward steps.

For instance:

Plus points:

* Useful arm rests in doors
* Improved dash finish (less exposed joints)
* Twin reversing lamps
* Switchable passanger airbag
* Better looking headlamps (especially Xenons) and tail lamps
* Improved interior lighting

Minus points:

* Removal of proper clock
* Facelift of bumpers on the Cooper that didn't match the styling of the rest of the car
* Useless additional storage trays in centre console
* Too large interior rear view mirror
* Removal of stainless steel lower grille on Cooper - replaced with black plastic

However, there was one major change: the gearbox.

The original gearbox, the "Midlands Gears" unit was very light and easy to use when new but the change becomes more vague as the miles build up. The problem is that they have been known to fail early and no new units are available (the factory closed in '04). All replacement units are refurbs

Post July '04 they became Getrag made. These were a little heavier and notchier to use than the Midlands unit (and reverse can be a bit more difficult to engage - there's no syncromesh on reverse ) and they don't have a reputation for failure; they are the best long term ownership prospect.

Tigger.

[miked378]

Hey guys, thanks again for the advice! Just wanted to let you know that I drove both 2005 and 2004 Coopers, and while the '05 had some nice interior touches, I got a GREAT deal on an '04! BEAUTIFUL British racing green!

I took it to a Mini dealer here in Boston (Mini of Peabody, which I'd read here has great service, and they did), and the only problem they identified is a little leak in the oil pan gasket. The 4 year/50k mile warranty expires at the end of Jan 08, so they said they could fix it under warranty.

I just took possession of the car yesterday, and I couldn't be happier! Thanks again, you'll definitely be seeing more of me around here!!

[Tigger, Eeyore & Roo]

Glad you went for it in the end

Pictures please!

Tigger.

[jimmy_racoon]

Owning a Cooper AND making a great deal make for a successful day!

Glad you got the MINI you wanted and have finally joined the club.

Get ready for the best time you have ever had!

Same as the others...post some pictures when you take a break from cruising around!

[miked378]

I've been pretty busy driving the car around, and we've had some bad weather, but here's a quick picture of my new car!

Thanks again for your advice!

--Mike

[Tigger, Eeyore & Roo]

Nice one Mike BRG is such a classy colour

Just add some chrome bumper inserts and it'll be perfect

[jimmy_racoon]

Thanks for the picture, Mike.

Beautiful, classic Cooper you have there!

There is just something about the clean lines of the Cooper bonnet that is stunning.

Keep her polished and enjoy the ride!