New member looking to buy an MC!
 

Hey everyone! I'm new to Mini Coopers, I plan on picking up an R53 Cooper S to turn into a weekend car/track car.

I've got a few questions for you guys!

1. What are some common issues and problems that are known to affect these cars? I mean like things that only Mini owners would really know about. For example, the E36 M3 is own to have issues with things like the differential bolt, rear shock towers breaking, VANOS rattling, that sort of thing.

2. How much would I realistically need to spend to get about 240 WHP? I think it's intake, exhaust, pulley, (maybe) cams, and a tune.

3. Once I get the car to 240 WHP, would it be reliable? Can the engine realistically take being beat on for hours at a track day? What about the transmission?