Are 2002's that much worse than 2003's ?

[japes]

Hi All - looking to buy ( again - after 5 years ) a Cooper S. But have only got circa 4k. There's clearly more 2002's around for that sort of money..but iI've heard they're a but flakey compared to a 2003 model. Is that just a myth? I guess it depends on how it's been looked after? Appreciate you experiences and advice.
Cheers

[nath123]

I test drove a 2003 MCs 60k and was left a bit underwhelmed , not very quick and had a lot of rattles from the interior, I then went out in a 2005 version same mileage and felt it was a completely different car much more responsive and no rattles from inside,the interior felt a lot better screwed together and had a better quality feel to the plastics.I have read they improved the minis late 2004 when they were facelifted and these are the better ones to go for.

[DanGT]

There were some changes year on year from the start but 2004 was the first big chang. I have a 2001 mini one and there are a numbere of things that dont quite work as they should. The car drive still very well but I think the electrics are a bit intermitant.

I would say if you can find a 2002 car that has been well looked after with all the problems done as thay came up you would be doing ok. With good history being more important than 2002-2003. I would be intrested if anyone felt diffrently.

[Bungleaio]

I've got a Sept 2003 build Cooper S and it is rattle free. I've taken it from 70K miles to 90k in the last 12 months. I have switched the tyres to non runflats and replaced the power steering pump in that time but other than that it's been spot on.

I will be sad to see it go when I put it up for sale soon.

[japes]

Thanks all - much appreciated and useful comments.
Let me know when its' up for sale !

[turbolucie]

I have a 2002 Cooper S and it's been faultless over the past 2.5 years. I can't bring myself to sell it but due to a new car purchase, it makes sense to sell it. But I don't want to, great car.