I have never owned a Mini, but have loved them for years. I am so excited to be purchasing a Mini within the next week. I was living outside the country for the last three years and have not had a car in three long years. Now I have narrowed my choices down to two beautiful 2013 Hardtop automatic. I don't know how to drive a manual and don't want to learn with a new car. Please give me your advice which one you would go with. I understand this is subjective. And I know I will be happy for years in either one, but I'm torn. Thanks for the help! Option #1 = 2013 Chilli Red Mileage: 2710 Doors: 2 door SUNROOF + HEATED SEATS + BLUETOOTH Bodystyle: Hatchback Drive Line: Front-wheel Drive Engine: I-4 cyl Engine Size: 1.6L Transmission: Automatic Trim: Cooper Exterior Color: Chili Red Interior Color: Carbon Black It is not certified, which will cost $750. It was used by the dealership manager. The original maintenance runs through 10/2015. So I would purchase the additional maintenance plan for $1695. I love the color. Total cost = $23,445 Option #2 = 2013 White Silver Metallic (Basic Model Zero Miles) Brand New Doors: 2 door NO SUNROOF + NO HEATED SEATS BLUETOOTH Bodystyle: Hatchback Drive Line: Front-wheel Drive Engine: I-4 cyl Engine Size: 1.6L Transmission: Automatic Trim: Cooper Exterior Color: White Silver Total cost = $22,920 I love the fact it is totally new. But don't want to fixate on that. Questions: #1 If I go with the red model, do I need to have it certified? #2 If I go with the red model, should I buy the extended maintenance? #3 Do the amenities on the red one out way the benefits of a brand new, never driven model?[/COLOR] Sorry for the long post. But I have no reference point to make a sound decision that I will live with for several years. And like many people I am trying to stay within a certain budget. Thanks for your helpful advice.
When you look at them, which one says take me home? Welcome, thanks for joining Motoring Alliance, the FUN and Friendly MINI Community.
I for one would steer clear of the red one for all the reasons/posts above. I like the red but would want something different then the majority.
Would never get the car that was used for test driving... That's the one that gets abused to see just what this little car is made of.... Get the one that's brand spanking new.... Or if you just gotta have the red MINI, go to another MINI dealer.... Then have it serviced at the local dealer if they won't give you a good deal on a dealer trade....
Without a second thought I'd buy the new one. It's personal taste I know but I'd pay extra 'not' to have a moon/sun roof.
And I'd never buy a car without one - as soon as it's 40 degrees, it's open. (And, BTW, I've not had a single issue with rattles, leaks or wind noise - although it's irritating that the factory switch doesn't allow one-touch control for opening and closing.) :frown2:
I should have been more clear. I like moon/sun roofs. My wife's CR-V has one and we enjoy using it. Any time in the past where we've had the option we've always bought it. My thing is I wouldn't buy a MINI with a moon roof. There have been a few that like to 'blow up' and here in Arizona with our heat in the summer time I'd be afraid of that.
:cornut: Here in TX I leave the sun/moon roof open 1 inch in louvered position/mode. Even if there's a thunder boomer, only a sprinkle or two get in. Jason
By the questions you have asked I’d say you are leaning heavy on the CR. With the added cost of the MP you could probably look at a 2014. If these are the only two to choose from and you are trying to stay on a budget I would say go new. IMO the only thing missing is the heated seats.
Welcome to the coolest AWARD winning MINI forum on the net...... Certified Used 100,000 mile warranty New car 50,000 mile warranty Research what a CPO car warranty will cover and see if that makes a difference for you. I would spend some time with both ..you never know you might fall in love with a Cooper S sitting off to the side by it's self just waiting on the right person...You can't help who you love, the heart wants what it wants.
Red is also my number 1 pick. But we just bought a Mini for my wife and she said #1 had to be Pepper White #2 Automatic #3 No Turbo #4 Heated Seats #5 No Sunroof (not necessary) Well we picked it up last Friday. Pepper White, Turbo charged, 6sp manual, sun roof, heated seats Like they say "Win Some, Lose Some" So, I guess its just a matter of deciding what your priorities are. Don't be afraid of learning how to drive a manual transmission, that's a one day thing for something you'll probably one for several years. I took my wife out last night to teach her how to drive the manual and she did quite well. She was very nervous but didn't miss a gear and never killed it. Heck we didn't even start yelling at each other.
I want to thank everyone for all your comments. I have actually learned a lot and have a much better perspective on it in its entirety. The more I listen and read on purchasing a Mini, the more comfortable I am in the process. I just did not want to make a rushed or rash decision without having a broader view. Thanks a lot. I will be smiling and waving like a kid in my new Mini. And my dog will love letting his hair fly in the wind as we cruise down the road in our beauty.
And don't forget the most important part: Until you post pictures of your new MINI, it doesn't exist! :cornut: