First time Mini Buyer.
 

Peace and love world what's up?!

So I have been infatuated with Mini Coopers since I saw the Movie " The Italian Job ".

This would be my first time buying a Mini Cooper and I can tell of the top that I want a type S and it must be a 6 speed manual.

Just joined the forum seeking much Mini Enthusiast advice.

I bought a 2006 Suzuki GSX-R 750 last summer and since then I feel the need to go all around clutch on my next car.

I got tired of being bored behind the wheel and I can tell after much review and reading that Mini is the way to go, it's a great car to have fun with, parking is no longer a hassle, and gas is not that bad.

Question is I cannot decide wether I want an 06, or 08.

Also I don't know which package is the best one to go with although the sport package seems to be along the right lane.

Convertible is for the ladies????

Which body styles are preferred???

HELP ME PLEASE!!!

You guys are appreciated and thanks in advance!

Be safe world!

Welcome to MINI Cooper Forums! You're looking at 2 different gen MINI's. An '06 Cooper S Hatch (R53) is a gen 1 Supercharged engine. An '08 Cooper S Hatch (R56) is a gen 2 Turbocharged engine. Do you want a supercharged MINI or a turbocharged MINI?

For common issues and specs on the supercharged gen 1 MINI, check out the buyers guide here: MINI R50/R53 Buyers Guide - MotoringFile Most people will suggest going with either an '05 or '06 for gen 1.

For gen 2, stick with 2011-2013 as they have the N18 engines that remedied a lot of issues in the earlier 2007-2010 N14 engines. The N14's have HPFP, timing chain, valve cover, turbo oil line leaks, etc. issues that seem common.

The R52 and R57 convertible options are a bit different, with engine and year wise. There are also JCW and GP MINI options for factory performance gains. There are also the coupe, roadster, coutryman, clubman, and paceman options.

Let me know if you have any questions.

Get a Gen 1 R53! Lol! Just my 2 cents.