Thinking of picking up an older MCS. Want to save some cash.

Is anything wrong with the 02? Normally I avoid first year cars, though.

Anything I should look out for on the older models? Avoid certain things?

I'd like to find an 05 for the upgraded lights/grill/transmission. Budget is around $17K. Think it's possible to find one with <40K?

Anybody have reliability issues with theirs yet?

Any mods/upgrades that are a MUST?

I don't know what was an option on the older ones, but I really want heated non-cloth seats and LSD. Any other options you guys really appreciate?

Thanks again!

*I have found a few for $19-20K asking price. Of course, less popular colors are cheaper. I found one in the lighter blue (not quite baby blue) for a bargain. But... a bit feminine. Think black wheels and dark tint could make it okay?

 

Now wyatt, I think you're talking about electric blue the very same colour my car is. It is NOT baby blue, I cannot stress this enough for my girlfriend and my buddies.
There are a few upgrades from 02 til 05 which makes the 05 a better car. My car is an early 03 and it's got 163 instead of 170hp. The lights are different (front and rear). There's no possibility to use the oem iPod connector etc. Mostly small things, nothing really big.
Gotta go, I'll continue later

 

good info. any more?

looking at used one too for wife (comparing 05 vs 06)

 

I beleive that the '05 was the first year that the LSD was offered and the new transmission gearing.

YOu should be able to get an '05 S for around that price if you look for something with not too many options and slightly higher mileage....you could easily get one for that price with going private party.

As far as mods, nothing necessary, but if the car comes with S-lite 17" runflats, you may want to ditch them for a lighter, better performing setup. I beleive each s-lite/runflat combo weighs in close to 50 lbs. Also, a 17% pulley is a nice little upgrade for a little extra power.

 

The runflats really do ruin the car a bit. I changed from 16" runflats to 17" low profile ones and the performance difference is huge.

 

I traded my 2004 S for a 2005 S and the tranny was an amazing difference. I miss my MINI from time to time.

I did a 19% pulley with no issues. I ran her hard too. LOTS of mods to be had. Best place to ask that is www.northamericanmotoring.com. Do check and recheck advice as with any forums there is a mix of experts and morons and it pays to know who is who before jumping into a project.

Here is a site with all I did with my MINI. There are newer mods out that were not available when I did mine like the M7 intercooler that I hear blows away the Alta one I was using.
http://www.cardomain.com/ride/2072191

 

It is possible but difficult. I just did some research on Manheim, average auction price for an 05S is $16,634 and 30,452 miles. After you add auction fees it's basically $17K.

I would put your budget at $18.5-19K, seems the used pricing greatly varies based on color and options.

 

I just put my 06 up for sale over on NAM--moderately modded--have a look, may not be to your taste, but I am in the seattle area, so if you care to have a look, just let me know--thanks!





rodd