'99 SLP#24

I'm thinking about picking up a Mini Cooper S for a daily driver. Does anyone have any experience with one? Does the novelty wear off or does it remain a fun car to drive? How about 6 speed manual or 5 speed (I think) automatic? What are the maintenance costs?

I'm looking at probably an 04-06 model. Thanks for any advice!

NYC6

:The novelty wore off"

Thats the exact phrase I said many times. Bought a 2009 Mini S a year and a half ago as a DD. Rough riding, terrible TQ steer, little cargo area and quirky controls. The older ones are even smaller and not as well made as the newer one made by BMW. I traded mine in on a 2010 BMW 135i. Wife and I are much happier with the 135. My Mini S was new and under full warranty so I can answer that.
Out with the mini

And in with the 135i

Salty Dawg

I had an '09 JCW Clubman and grew tired of it quickly. It was fun at first. The rough ride and cuteness grew tiresome.

BSheppard

Fun if you like small cars but the reliability is poor. Try a Miata PRHT or GTI before you buy.

Dave68

...or a Mazda 3.

JerriVette

I drove the Mini cooper s and wasn't that impressed although it might make a nice daily driver..? I would think something with a bit more power might be a better vehicle. the 135 bimmer sounds like a nice daily driver? Maybe even the VW GTI? or a preowned 335I?

I think I'd go preowned certified on a GTI or any other vehicle for daily driving..

I'd suggest an extended warranty would be valuable on any of these vehicles if not buying new..

Repair costs can get out of hand on any of these vehicles..

How about a first generation CTS V? Corvette LS6 or LS2 motor and luxury at the same time for about the same cost? If you want an automatic transmission then look at the G8 GT...

I'm biased because the repair costs on a mini, bmw or even the GTI can add up quickly whereas american parts and labor tends to be quite a bit lower...

If your still interested in the mini cooper s....go to a dealer and test drive one..

I did that and lost interest. I thought after all the excellent magazine write ups it would be better. It wasn't ...

HTH

'99 SLP#24

Well I did go and drive one and while it was fun to drive I think it would get old quickly. So I think the Mini has been crossed off my list for now. Thanks for all the opinions and advice!

JerriVette

Always the best way to find out what suits you..

Good luck