Is this 2007 a smart buy?
 

After driving a friend's 2004 convertible a few times, ive been wanting a Mini of my own. Changing jobs shortly and wont have a company car, so I figured it was time to start shopping.

Unfortunately I dont have the largest budget in the world, but just finished test driving this 2007 S:

Used 2007 MINI Cooper For Sale | South Portland ME

While I wish it was a standard, the automatic felt relatively smooth.

The engine is free of knocks or suspicious sounds, but at the same time, I'm new to European cars.

I've read VERY mixed reviews of 2007's, so I'm looking for a little more first hand advice.

Anything I should be really aware of? Good looking deal? Run away now?

Thanks in advance!