Should I Buy A MINI??

[Minityme]

I'm thinking about buying a MINI, but I'm starting to think they have to many problems. I would like input and honest answers to help me decide.

Thanks

[Tigger, Eeyore & Roo]

Pretty much any single make Forum such as Mini2 will give you the impression that the car is unreliable!

People come on here to talk about problems rather than satisfaction and you will find something similar where ever you go. Be it Ford, VW, Honda, Citroen.... you name it.

I'd suggest checking independent data from an organisation such as JD Power before making any judgments.

Tigger.

[Smooth Criminal]

I find that any problems they do have are far outweighed by the driving experiance.

[Minityme]

Thank you for your replies. I'm interest in the 2 door hardtop S, would like a JCW but but sure if I can find one. Is there a year that is more desirable then another? I'd like to avoid making a first time buyers mistake. Also, what is about the MINI that you like?

Thank you for your replies.

[Tigger, Eeyore & Roo]

Quote: Originally Posted by Minityme (original)

Thank you for your replies. I'm interest in the 2 door hardtop S, would like a JCW but but sure if I can find one. Is there a year that is more desirable then another? I'd like to avoid making a first time buyers mistake. Also, what is about the MINI that you like?

Thank you for your replies.

Are you aware of the single most important change in the model's history: the change from the early R53 Cooper S (2002-6) to the later R56 Cooper S (2006-current)? If so, have you decided which one you are interested in?

It's vital to know this first...

Tigger.

[Kev50027]

Quote: Originally Posted by Minityme (original)

Is there a year that is more desirable then another? I'd like to avoid making a first time buyers mistake.

Any Cooper S from 2007 or newer is the new body style, and has a completely redone engine with a turbocharger rather than a supercharger. They gain a bit of power, but lose that amazing supercharger whine.

Quote: Originally Posted by MINItyme (original)

Also, what is about the MINI that you like?

The performance around bends, the character, looks, and quality, and finally the practicality of having a sporty car that can hold stuff and still gets great gas mileage.

[Tigger, Eeyore & Roo]

Quote: Originally Posted by Minityme (original)

Is there a year that is more desirable then another? I'd like to avoid making a first time buyers mistake.

In the interests of balance, Cooper S's built before September 2006 would be the ones to go for!

[MINImeat]

My '03 MINI is still reliable, solid, and fun.
I'd say it's primarily the handling, but it's also that it's a "premium small car" instead of an economy car. It feels more like owning a sports car that magically holds people and stuff.

[sLyMiniS]

I have been a Mini owner since 2008 and it was a hand down from my mother, who gave me hers since I graduated college. I have recently got a well paying job and in the market for a new car, I did not second guess myself and automatically went to my Mini dealership. Here are my honest opinions on the car ... If you have minimal responsibility such as people relying on you (no kids or busy life style with a wife), if you have a job where you need to transport alot of materials, or if you do not like driving a car with great acceleration and handling then this car may not be for you.

The only true problem I have with Mini's is the run flat tires, yes the concept is a great idea but they are a pain in the ass to deal with and they are EXPENSIVE !!

Other than the mentioned above its a great car and I suggest testing driving it and you will see why we are all enthusiasts on this site !! Hope this helped !!