R50 Mini opinions please

[Adruzzz]

I'm thinking of downsizing considerably to an R50 Mini, i've seen a 52 plate Cooper for sale locally that looks alright, good miles etc and was just wondering what they're like to live with, real world MPG, what to look for etc?

 

[Ghosty]

Not bad things, nice premium feel and well put together.
Early autos (all R50s?) are CVT and best avoided.
Be choosy as there's plenty of them out there.
Fun handling, sporty ride (can get a bit bumpy if big wheels/sport suspension specced), comfy seats with plenty of adjustment. Lots of options, some rarer than others.
MPG low 30s I think? They're all 1.6s. Mini Ones are detuned versions with less bhp (90 vice 115) but fundamentally identical to Coopers.
Boot space is as bad as you'd expect, but surprisingly good for what it is, and with the rear seat down (50/50 split) there's a decent amount of space. You can just about fit a bike in one but you need both wheels off etc.
http://mini2.com/ will be very useful to you.

 

[legrandefromage]

Steering motors can fail unexpectedly. Rattly timing chains although I've not heard this myself. Most common for me has been engine management lights - lambda, emissions related usually. Dont skimp on any oil changes.

They are well built at the front but its seemingly all but forgotten for back seat passengers.

 

[Adruzzz]

Re:

Thanks for the replies so far Gents

 

[BikerB]

I had an 03 plate for a couple of years, the electric windows stop working ,common fault which they wont cover on warranty,have to hit the door panel hard to get them working,the gearbox's can become noisey,which mine did,again common fault.apart from that it was always reliable.electric steering motor can be noisey.

 

[Adruzzz]

Re:

Ah the good old 'technical tap' always works a treat

Thanks for the reply

 

[Midlife]

try and get one with all the packs.........means some other soul has stumped up the cash at initial purchase!

Shaun

 

[RickTheUncivil]

further to what the above have already said about the steering motor.... it switches off, so your driving along and suddenly the steering is like an old truck. Nearly killed the wife first time that happened!
common fault, easy but not cheap to fix

 

[Adruzzz]

Re:

Blimey, imagine that! definitely something to watch out for :facepalm:

Cheers!