Mini Newbie..looking for a Mini Cooper S...

[prashan]

Hi All

I'm looking for my first Mini for the future wife...have a budget of around £12k....would like a Mini Cooper S, in Red (her choice), hopefully something newer than a 2007...is this achievable ? Did the cars come as standard with Xenons ? Any major things to look out for (e.g known issues / recalls ?)

Sorry if this has been asked before but any pointers greatly received.

Thanks
P

[Biscuit Bus]

I'd have thought you'd definitely get newer than 2007 for your budget. Do a trawl of the classifieds.

Xenons aren't standard but come with the 'chilli pack'. This is an option pack that most have fitted and I'd certainly look to source a car with. Has a few decent additions.

The most reported issue is with timing chains (also known as the death rattle). Google it.

[prashan]

Thanks.

[nickfrog]

I would be aiming for a N18 (184 hp) engined car rather than the old and more fragile N14 (175 hp) engine on that budget.

Proper warranty essential on those cars. Cherished or MINI Insured Warranty.

http://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/2013...

Edited by nickfrog on Monday 22 April 11:14

[Honsta]

For £12K, you can get yourself a nice JCW GP (R53)