Japanese imported minis - pros and cons

[sawman]

i keep thinking about scratching the classic mini itch, and browsing ebay and classifieds, I notice that there are a few japanese imported minis about. I'd love to know whether there are any pros and cons with these? I have previously run a eunos roadster, and so I am aware that imported cars can be less straightforward to insure, is this the case with minis.

[sawman]

FWDRacer said:

Jap cars will come with Air Con as standard. There are quite a few Autos as well.

You have wind down windows and opening rear quarterlights in the UK. Far more effective.

I noticed the air con and was concerned it might rob a few vital horsepower. is it not very effective either?

I am guessing the jap ones might be less rusty?