I am interested in getting a mini but need some opinions about getting a Cooper or Cooper S. Are the options the CooperS has worth the extra money? Also, how is the reliability of the mini? Should I get automatic or manual?

 

The S gives more horsepower and performance . Test drive them both and see what you like better. The S is more upgradeable. Mine has had only one problem I lost power steering at 65K miles,

Many owners have had expensive auto tranny issues while the manual seems more bulletproof

 

Thanks for the info. Will probably go with the manual.

 

Well I pulled the trigger and bought a 2011 Mini coupe. Pick it up yesterday and drove it 100 miles home. 6 speed with the cold weather package, premium package and blue tooth. Bought it at Keeler BMW in Latham NY. Great place to do business. So far I love it.

 

Congrats ...

 

Does the S come with a 6 speed instead of the 5? Or did that 6 come when Mini got away from the Midland Tranny & went w/ the Getrag?

Thanks,
Dave

 

6 os mostly S will I have seen some regular coopers 6 speed swapped

 

Thanks Bad. It's seems like one of the things to avoid from what I've read under the R50 threads is the Midland 5speed. So for the longevity/cost effective standpoint, an R53 may be the way to go, unless I want to be changing tranny fluid every 7500 miles.

BTW MotherG, congrats on your purchase of a new 2011. I'm sure you're still in the "Honeymoon" stage with it. So please keep us posted to how your new lil Cooper is treating you.

All the best,
Dave

 

Mine came with the 6 speed. Because of the weather I haven't had a chance to drive it much.

 

Speaking of snow! How is a Mini in the white stuff like after about 6 or more inches. They are pretty low to the groung plus the front air dam.

Does an S require premium gas?

Thanks,
Dave