Which is the best?
 

I currently own a Suzuki SX-4 but would like to sell it and buy a Mini. I like the earlier (up to 2006) body style best, and being an OldCoot, I don't think I need the extra hp of an S... I know this is subjective, but am I totally off base? (My middle son owns a new Mini S and he says I won't be happy with the slower one.)

Also, where are the best places to look for a low-mileage used Mini?

Thanks for your input and advice.

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Best advice , DRIVE both ... The SX4 I drove was pretty anemic in performance , the regular cooper might be fine for you

Finding A low miles one watch Ebay , craigslist and autotrader you never know what will pop up

SX4 is much better as per me. But every person have there own taste. Its upto you what u like the most between two.

I agree with 'Bad Venge': drive both before you decide. I have a 2011 base model. Did not think I would need the added power of an S. (Also had read reviews stating the S had a slightly lower reliability rating). Although I love my MINI completely and utterly and refuse to suggest anything negative about it in any way...I would definately consider an S for my next MINI.

It was really hard to tell, while I was still in the test-driving stage (before my purchase), whether the S or the base model suited my needs best. You really need to have either an extended test drive with each (or several shorter drives) to compare. I drove quite a few, both S and base models, and I must admit the difference didn't really hit me until I got comfortable with my MINI, past the driving-on-bran-new-eggshells stage of ownership, and am looking for some added power on the highway. It's still perfect--I wouldn't change a thing about mine.