I'm seriously considering buying a 1st Gen modern Mini.Cooper S. I've done a lot of research. It seems that the 2005 or 2006 are the best and have the fewest issues. One person said that Mini Coopers are "a Blast to drive and a Burden to own". I'm here to get an enthusiast's opinion. Most of the time the "blast" outweighs the "burden". Could some of you share "the Good, the Bad, and the Ugly" of Mini Cooper ownership? Any insight that you give me would be greatly appreciated. Thanks, in advance.

 

Welcome to the site! You've come to the right place - lots of knowledgeable people here who can help you when you get what you're looking for. Good luck with your search and keep us posted!

 

2005-2006 R models are good. 2007-2010 you have to make sure most of the engine work has been done. 2011+ you are pretty good. 2014+ you will be fine.

 

I went for the 1.6 no charger or turbo Mini Cooper.

fun is the best word to describe every journey in that car.
no major problems, I’ve had her 5 years.

 

I just got an 2003 Cooper S and I have fallen in love with it, it actually has already saved my life, got ran off the road thought I was gonna flip but I was drifting instead and all that happened was my bumper and two tires came off the rim and I was completely safe! By far the best car, I will be buying me another one down the road! They handle amazing and there actually very roomy I have a two door and I couldn't believe how much I could fit.

 

Agreed, re 2006 base models. 3 years ago, we purchased a 2006 R50 with 150K miles for $2,500. No issues so far (now at 165K), except that the speedo reads 5 mph fast at 55 actual (so it reads 60).with its185.65.15 tires. We do all our maintenance will do repairs if needed; for example, we're getting set to replace front suspension, bearings, struts, rotors, etc. Considering staying with factory 15 inch rims and just replacing the tires...or possibly going with 16 inch rims.