It's VERY unlikely a MINI will ever leave you stranded, however you may encounter a few quality issues, that will (or certainly should) be resolved with your warranty. Any web forum will have a larger number of horror stories than "real life" samples, it's simply the nature of the beast. We'll also have more complete, through and through enthusiasts, again, that's the way it works.
Basically, I can see no reason you shouldn't buy a MINI from the description you gave of what you want. And to be honest, once the mystical MINI force has pulled you in, it's pointless trying to resist.

Basically, I can see no reason you shouldn't buy a MINI from the description you gave of what you want. And to be honest, once the mystical MINI force has pulled you in, it's pointless trying to resist.