Buying a classic mini

[sawman]

Can anyone point me in the direction of a decent buyers guide for classic minis. Following the top gear silliness last week I have found myself wondering if a mini could fulfill the role currently undertaken by my subaru forester - ie foul weather alternative to my morgan.

I realise that more maintainance would be required than for the forester. but other than that what could be the pitfalls, Also would I be better to look at the very latest minis - I note some have a "sport" pack with leather chairs, wide arches etc, or is an older model a better bet.

With regards insurance - are they cheap to insure, how old for classic insurance?

Edited by sawman on Sunday 1st January 14:45

[harley munky]

i use a 1973 850cc automatic as a dailey driver (along with a harley). i love my minis and have had about 6. i drive all over the country in the mini for work. i live in swansea and travel upto york,southhampton,somerset and even france and it dosnt let me down. yes they require more maintance to keep them reliable but there so simple to work on that most things can be done youself if your abit mechanically minded.
as for insurance im 25 with points with no no claims bonus and this year was £147 fully comp with adrian flux