Hello

[Humbugger]

Hi All,

Haven't posted in the Mini section before. I am about to join the club and get myself a Cooper, Currently searching for 'the one!'.

Criteria is quite specific -
Cooper
2004 - 2005 model
under 55000 miles
silver, black roof, sunroof, cooper S alloys

I am looking to spend around 6k.

There are a fair few out there in this spec, I missed out on one last week (it was being sold as I rang the dealer!) so it seems I need to just find it, drive it and go for it if its good.

I have been reading through the various buying guides online, but would really appreciate any first hand advice. Is there anything I should look out for on test drives?

D

[nickfrog]

Are you sure you want a R53 ? This is borderline R56 budget. Problem with being so specific with colours/specs is that you rule 95% of cars. Wheels can upgraded easily.

Sunroof is a reliability/leaks PITA on Minis, best avoided.

http://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/2012...

Edited by nickfrog on Monday 5th March 16:05

[Humbugger]

So I took the plunge! found the perfect car at Mini adventure in Essex. 54 plate Cooper, silver with black roof, cooper S alloys, glass roof and only 37000 miles Happy day!

Looking forward to getting involved with the community, is there another forum more mini specialised? not sure which to go for, is mini2 good?

Humbugger

[MadDad]

Welcome to the club!

Mini2 is ok, minitorque is a bit more active, and a bit more akin to the banter you get on P/H.

[Miglia 888]

And welcome! Glad you found exactly the right spec for you.

Total Mini is worth a look too:
http://www.totalmini.com/forum/

And we're in the ECMC also, which is a very friendly club with members further afield too:
http://www.eastcoastminiclub.co.uk/

Have a great time with your MINI!