hi everyone. 1st post. new here. great site lots of info.

ive been wanting this car for a long long time and finally am about to pull the trigger, BUT, when i went to look at the car again yesterday, first time was in 2003, it looked EXACTLY the same...like i think the bodystyle didnt change one bit and its been almost 10 years running. i do like it, but i saw the concept coupe on their website and i like that alot too..

im afraid that by the time by custom order arrives in 3 months, a brand new body style will emerge and my brand new mini will be dated.

what do u all think? should i hold off for the next generation? or just go ahead and order it now? thanks

 

There is a difference in body style between 2002-2006, and 2007-2011 for sure. As far as I understand the next generation will be the 2013 model, available in 2012. If you think you'll be more into that, I would just wait.. whats another year if you've been thinking about it since 2003?

 

You should take into account that the new model (F56) might have a three cylinder engine. I personally don't like the way they drive. Also rumors say MINI's design will be drastically different. And last but not least first gen new models might have glitches/ gremlins. I am happy that I got a 2011 and if I really like the new model (F56) I'll do what I can to change in 2014/15. Good luck on you decision!

Cheers!

 

You've driven the 3rd Gen MINI?

To the OP, I'd say just drive a 2011 and see what you think. Then do some research on the Coupe and the 3rd Gen cars to see if they sound good enough to wait for. If your observation is that the 2nd gen cars aren't much different than the 1st gen cars, then the 3rd Gens probably won't seem much different then, either... in which case, why wait?

 

No, I have not driven the 3rd gen MINI. However I have driven various cars that have a 3 cylinder engine. In my opion, these engines don't sound good and lack torque/ power. I do hope this changes in the near future though.

 

I'd say wait until the new design comes out, if you don't like it you can always buy a 2012 at a discounted price as dealers will be trying to clear out inventory to make room for the 2013 models.

 

it's a judgement call that only you can make. personally, i don't like the reliability of new gen cars (always bugs to work out) and want to enjoy a mcs asap. life is just too short. and if i like the next gen mcs, i'll trade my current one in after 2-3 years when mini works out most of the glitches. it's not like you'll have to be with one car for the rest of your life.

 

Yeah, I agree. Don't buy first generation...that's my general rule. Just to be on the safe side. We're talking a lot of money here, to me at least.

 

I agree with everyone here who say first year cars tend to have issues. It takes several years for the manufacturer to iron out all the issues.