A buddy had one to dominate H-Street for autocross. He got rid of it as he was used to Honda's where most major components last the lifetime of the car. I recall he replaced the rad and coolant tank, steering rack, abs controller, some electrical stuff, no huge bills but enough.He got good mileage and I was thinking of picking it up as he had put alot of work into it, but decided not too. One with a good maintenance history, and lots of parts replaced might be good. One that has "needed nothing" would be scary.

I'd ask your question on the North American Motoring Forums. On the other hand, you can wait here; you will soon be receiving negative responses from a few self-proclaimed "experts" who have never even sat in a Cooper.

In my research I found some indications that the 2nd Generation Coopers are a bit more reliable, but I suspect that a thorough service history and a PDI from a tech who knows Coopers are the real dispositive factors.

A family member has an 06 S model. Really fun car. Its had some issues, but the worst thing about MINI issues is that they are expensive issues. Its a cheapish car (in the preowned market) that has pricey parts and labor rates. If you plan on doing all the work yourself you'll save a bundle. This first gen cars I believe had some sludge issues. Something to do with MINIs 15k interval recommendations. Not sure if this mostly affected the S models, or the NA as well.

Unlike the later Prince engines, the tritec (especially in justa form) are rock solid. I've seen them go well over 300,000 mikes but don't recall seeing any go to 4000,000 yet. Look for a 2004 or later as the early transmissions were a week spot - the midlands 5 speed and CVT. Look for rust on the hatch, failed low speed controller on the radiator fan, and failing power steering. All these are easily fixable but a bargaining chip if you find them on one you like.

thanks guys, you all are great people.. i was looking at Miata too, but wife said no on 2 seater! Not sure what else i should look into for a fun to drive now....? 1st gen Mini indeed needs a lot of work..... may need to scratch it. It fits into my toy car budget though....

thanks guys, you all are great people.. i was looking at Miata too, but wife said no on 2 seater! Not sure what else i should look into for a fun to drive now....? 1st gen Mini indeed needs a lot of work..... may need to scratch it. It fits into my toy car budget though....

What kind of budget are you looking at? Another great option from that time period would be an Acura RSX, or RSX-S. Or even a 2006 Civic Si.

thanks guys, you all are great people.. i was looking at Miata too, but wife said no on 2 seater! Not sure what else i should look into for a fun to drive now....? 1st gen Mini indeed needs a lot of work..... may need to scratch it. It fits into my toy car budget though....

My friend had in total 3, Cooper S, Cooper, and now facelift 1.6 diesel. He swears by them, in terms of quality and especially road manners. One thing to watch is gearbox on early (-04), only Cooper with Midland box, S is different (Getrag) and strong. General quality is OK, but you have to be aware that this is a little car, and little cars aren't built as tough as big ones.