[Bill T]

Hi all,

I got confirmation today that my Mini Cooper has arrived at my dealer. I had signed on to the wait list way back in June, and I'm glad that it's finally here. I had to call the dealer to tell them that the MiniUSA site shows my car had arrived; I would've thought the dealer would let me know instead.

I talked to the sales guy on the phone today, and made arrangements to pick it up next week. I wasn't too impressed on how the conversation went. First he asked me what additional toys I wanted. I went for the floor mats ($90 or so), but nixed the roof decal ($380 including installation). I want a roof decoration but the price sounds high to me.

Next we talk about financing the car. I asked about leasing, and he quoted me a 355 money factor, a $700 acquisition fee, and a $350 disposition fee for a 36 month lease. All three of these numbers were much higher than other leasing agents I have approached. When I mentioned a 3rd party lease, he said that in that case I may have some indefinite delay for the financing to clear. Yeah right.

When I said that I may just pay cash for the car, he expressed concern that I will tie up all that capital (instead of paying BMW/Mini 8% for a loan), and wanted me to consider other financing options. I realize that the guy has to make a buck, but Mini is already doing pretty well by getting MRSP for its cars.

Buying a car has always been an unpleasant experience for me, but I would have thought that paying cash at MRSP would be no-hassle. Is there something intrinsically slimy about the car-sales business?

Anyways, I'm still excited about getting my Mini (IndiBlue/black/premium/sports/NAV) next Monday and will report back after a few spins.

[EBMCS03]

Haha cool!! CONGRATS!! Hope everything works out for ya!