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Mini Cooper R50/R53 (2002-2007) Questions & Answers
3 questions from our users
Are these models in “s” series a better buy than the later R56 with known Timing Belt issues.? What known problems emerge in the R53 versions after 100k kilometres?
I’m looking at buying a Mini Cooper S 2004 model for my daughter with 85,000km on clock I have read some good and bad reviews this will be her first car are these a good car? Are they expensive to service?
Does this model have many issues?
A pretty risky gamble buying a 2004 model with 85K on the clock. In my opinion, it's not worth the gamble and would be akin to throwing away good money after a bad investment. These cars are expensive...
Read more to maintain and the older they get the more expensive the maintenance, due to the number of issues that increase as they get older. Again, this is just my opinion...
For a first car I would look at a Honda Jazz, they are cheap, hellishly reliable and a great car. My wife has had one for 5 years and it has not had one single problem. Mini's of that era are unreliable at best and were frought with problems.
Is it good for first time drivers?
It would be perfect. Ticks all the boxes... cheap to run, great handling, good safety record etc
European car for a first car, nope. Expensive insurance due to expensive parts and repair costs, go asian for your first car, Suzuki Swift, Honda Jazz, Mazda 3 etc.
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