Hey guys - so I'm contemplating getting a mini cooper S. I've always liked the look, they seem like a blast to drive, etc etc... but if they're really quirky, its not worth it to me, I'd rather get a different car.

Now initially I was set on getting an r56 - 07 or 08 with 50kish miles, just becuase its goign to be a newer car. After browsing the forums it seems like the r56's have alooottt of annoying issues. Meanwhile the r53 seems more simplistic and have less issues and are overall far more reliable - is that a fair statement? I read things from Mini techs who own r53's and claim they'll never own an r56 (based on repairs in their shop).

Not sure why I chose to post this in the r53 forum but yeah, I'd really love to hear your feedback.

Thanks!

 

Drive both....
They are so different, the only thing they really share is a shape...
the r53 (gen1l is more of a raw feel, the r56 (gen2) is more refined...can be good or bad depending on what you want.
Tye early gen2 cars DO have issues, but check the mx history...if fixed, the main issue is carbon from the direct injection...newer gen2 have a revised pcv system...older gen2 MAY need regular cleaning...chemical, or even walnut shell blasting.
I am biased to the gen1, and mine has been great since new, but....
all mini's tend to be quirky.....so don't know if you need to look further. If you lnow about mini's and their quirks, they can be relilable, and prettt ok $ to matain....if you do not, they can get $$$ pretty quick. Honest answer. Minis look cool, but to get the looksome folks overlook abused, raced, or tracked used cars, and they can be $$$$ pits, but "great deals" on a used car lot....

 

2 very similar but different cars. 1st gens are definitely simpler to maintain & have more mod options. Issues are less complex as to 2nd gens. You'll get better/rawer road feel, too. The R56 might be the better, more comfortable car; but the R53 is known to be the better MINI. Whatever gen you choose, opt for 05-06 1st gens & 11-present 2nd gens.

 

Wow thanks for the fast replies guys....

Good points, I also keep reading that the r56 from 2010 or so and beyond is not nearly as bad as 07/08. Likewise the late model r53 (05-06 seems to be the ticket). So theoretically i could spend some more money and get a newer, lower mileage r56. I'll be honest and say I think I would rather have the more refined r56 (only because its been a bit of time since I've had a raw car and I've gotten soft hahah).

 

Either way you go, both are lotsa fun.

 

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