We don't just talk cars ... we teach how to buy them.
"Used Mini Cooper Buying Guide And Best Price Strategies!"
Potential used Mini Cooper buyers can use this information to help identify which models may be the best fit as well as how to then purchase the vehicle at the best possible price ... and yes, even at wholesale.
The Mini Cooper is truly a globally unique vehicle, carving out its own very special and appealing personality. With its BMW genes, it's a sporty blend of British mini-car charm with German precision engineering. The result is a head-turning design coupled with incredibly precise steering and handling in a car that seems to drive with boundless energy.
And we just happen to love the Mini. I'm 6' 2" and when I first saw one I didn't take it seriously. Kinda looked like a toy to me. But then I went for a ride in a manual shift S model ... been hooked ever since. I had plenty of room ... much more so than I ever could have expected. And the drive was exceptional. It really did have the feel and handling of a BMW. I then looked at them in a whole different light.
After a long hiatus (since the '60's), the Mini was reintroduced for the 2002 model year. This new generation was produced through 2006 (the Mini received fairly significant redesigns in 2007 and again in 2009), consistently delivering a sporty performance. Space efficient, yet with plenty of available features, the new Mini was available in two models.
Powering the standard Cooper is a 1.6 liter inline four that produces 115 horsepower, while the supercharged Cooper S pumps out 163. Used Mini Cooper models can be found with either the standard 5-speed manual transmission or the optional continuously variable transmission (CVT) with an automanual mode.
These models have proven to retain their values over time and have become very popular used cars.
If you are considering a used model, here's some of the more significant year-to-year changes to help you make your choice:
2003: Due to its initial introduction late in the 2002 model year, the Mini Cooper was nearly unchanged. Sport Package options added an antiskid system and increased wheels size to 17 inches on the Cooper S, or 16-inch on the base Cooper. Also, the standard CD player was given an auxiliary MP3 player port. And late in the model year, a John Cooper Works tuning kit became available which increased the Cooper S engine output to 200 horsepower.
2004: Again, few changes. A digital speed readout under the tachometer became standard, as did a rear power socket. And optional Sport seats were offered in beige leather, in addition to blue and black.
2005: A convertible body style was added to the lineup, with a power top and a heated rear glass window. And all Minis had headlight, taillight, and grille revisions.
2006: No significant changes.
2007: The Mini gained slightly more power in 2007 and size was marginally increased, while the convertibles maintained the earlier generation's design. Also new was a six-speed automatic transmission, which replaced the continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) as an option on all but the base convertible.
In addition, a new convertible Sidewalk package was introduced that included unique alloy wheels and upgraded interior and exterior trim.
2008: Midway through the model year, a new and larger body style debuted called the Clubman. It's a 9 inch longer hatchback with a 3 inch longer wheelbase.
2009: The Mini Cooper Convertible was totally redesigned, getting the same all-new platform as the hatchback and Clubman. The performance-oriented John Cooper Works model was also introduced with boosted output in the turbocharged engine, upgraded brakes and unique interior and exterior styling accents. In addition, stability control was made standard for all Mini Coopers.
Gas mileage performance continues to be a big plus, with up to 32 combined mpg for the base model and 29 combined for both the S and John Cooper Works.
Overall, we feel the Mini Cooper makes an excellent choice as a used car purchase for those who value handling and performance, uniqueness and fuel economy.
How To Buy A Used Mini Cooper At The Best Price:
There are actually several different ways to buy a used Mini at the lowest price and even at wholesale, depending on which method fits you best.
ONE - Car Auctions:
First, you can check for used Mini Coopers at local public car auctions. This article covers how to locate these auctions and the key issues in using them to your advantage. While this method isn't for everyone and will likely take some additional time and effort on your part, there are indeed some truly outstanding buys for those who shop these auction events.
TWO - Spot Wholesale Opportunities On Dealer Lots:
Another excellent method involves getting several used car dealers to compete for your business. This article details the best way to carry out this process. It's just amazing what happens to prices when true competition takes place.
Also ...
If You're Interested In A "Brand New" Mini Cooper, there are some great deals to be had right now if you know how.
Here's the absolute best method on the planet for getting the absolute best price on a new Mini.
