looking to purchase my 1st mini, Got guestions
 

So I have been an admirer of the mini cooper for years, and finally financially able to purchase one, a used one maybe around 3 years old,

I would like the "S" version, but are there issues with the supercharger? how does it last after several miles? I know earlier vehicles with superchargers/turbos didnt last long.

auto or standard doesnt really matter to me, is one transmission better i.e. last longer, problem free.

what do I need to look for, Good and bad. known problems/quirks???

I am a good mechanic, I built my drag truck, and know about other vehicles but the Mini Coopers are so rare around here (Arkansas) I can't find out much about them, any help would be appreciated.

I've seen S/c's in the 160K range ... Stick is my preference as the auto's when they do are PRICEY

anyone else? that's it? 40 views, and only one person with a little input? no one knows what to watch out for. or have recommendations on what to look for.

The problem is there are numerous threads on what to look for , most people ask the same thing

Agreed, and no one answered their post either,,,,,,,,,

see below post for absolutely no info, LOL

https://minicooperforums.com/forum/s...ead.php?t=3121

https://minicooperforums.com/forum/s...ead.php?t=1169

https://minicooperforums.com/forum/s...ead.php?t=2442

https://minicooperforums.com/forum/general-mini-cooper-talk-30/turbo-vs-supercharger-382/

https://minicooperforums.com/forum/s...ead.php?t=3133

well this forum has been a great dissapointment, I'm out!

I dont think there are to many techs in this site because i too have searched for the same answers here with little to no luck. Keeps me wondering what the flaws of this little car are. It would be nice to know what were getting into before we jump into the car.

I cant tell you much about problems. I've got a Mini Cooper D thats 1 year old.

I've got a manual and I believe they are cheaper.
Mines a diesel and it is great on fuel, I would definately go for a diesel instead of petrol.

The only one thing, I'm in the UK and we had speed bumps (I dont know if its the same in the US) but if so, be careful going over them. I've knocked something off the bottom of my car and it cost me £100 to fix so now I do 15mph over them, so be careful.

Otherwise, no problems but then mines new so it shouldnt have any problems yet

Hi,
go for a cooper s,manual if you can drive a manual all day,clutch can be heavy in traffic,no issues so long as oil and filter have been replaced on a regular basis with documents to prove,look at shut lines,faded pain,poor interior,badly worn tires.leaks from the door seals,you are a good mechanic so should know most things to look at,please don't be aggressive because you don't get answers,we are enthusiastic not BMW techs,good luck