2006 mini cooper

[DaveyA]

I'm currently looking at mini coopers and have found a 2006 model with 55k miles on clock. Up for £6.5k.
Is this a reasonable price?
I've had a search and it seems the mini suffers from gearbox issues. Would they apply to this year?
Also any other issues I should be aware of?

Thanks

[Luke.]

R53 or 56?

[DaveyA]

I have no idea :-\ It's an 06 plate.
Can get a pic up after work if the above don't help.

[Luke.]

OK, let's keep things simple.

Old or new shape?

[DaveyA]

The car in question

http://pictures2.autotrader.co.uk/imgser-uk/servle...

[Luke.]

Seems pricey for a Cooper. Probably more Cooper S money.

[Waugh-terfall]

My mate paid slightly more for an 05 '54' Cooper with similar milage, however that car only lasted 11-days and I've found replacements for around the £6k mark. Talking main dealers here with warranty, fresh MOT etc etc.

These gearbox issues, I presume they mention British Midlands? That's the troublesome box, the 2004 (54-on) cars get a 5-speed Getrag box which is far stronger.