7 replies to this topic

[streetrules]

Hi guys, I'm new to this forum so I'll quickly introduce myself. My names Matt and I'm a journalist studying in Wales at the mo, I drive a W123 Merc 230e which is almost the antithesis of a mini but hey... Check her out below...



Basically, my esteemed girlfriend is in the market for a mini, she has about a grand to spend and obviously doesn't want to buy a rotter. I'm guessing younger is better but I would really appreciate a few major points to look out for. I hear rust gets heavy around the windscreen but that's about all I know. Mechanically I'm also guessing it's fairly simple, especially on the 998cc lump that the mrs wants, but its foibles would be great to know. I hope you guys can give me some advice or even point me in the direction of a good 'un (we're in the Cardiff/Bristol region).

Thanks for reading,

Matt

[Kattypilla]

I'd recommend you buy a copy of Mini Magazine it contains all the things you should look out for when buying a mini, for example where rust usually occurs etc. If you buy next months (comes out on friday 17th) you'll see the R1 engined minis featured which belong to two TMF members, Ade an Pete.

[Jammy]

Have a look over this buyers guide in the FAQ section. Also, this has come up a couple of times lately with very good responces so a quick search should bring up those threads.

Your right in thinking rust is the main problem, but its a common misconception that younger is better. Obviously if it was one of the last built then theres been less time for rust to appear, however since the early 80s the grade of steel used to build the shells has got worse and worse letting rust appear quicker, so you'll often find '70s minis in very good condition for there age! Around 80-110k miles is when you typically start see things like gearboxes needing rebuilding and piston rings going.

For 1k though you should be able to get a decent enough car, Ebay is ok, can still pick up a bargain, but make sure you view before bidding. Keep an eye on the For Sale sections here and on other forums. Theres a *very* nice estate that Cooper_Shaz is selling. The good thing about this car is that the restoration has been performed with everyone on TMF watching, so we all know its a great car!

Your Merc is gorgeous by the way! I've always wanted something old school but slightly mysterious and mafia-ish!

[Kattypilla]

Smartie pants! We all bow down to the power that is Jammy!

[Jammy]

Awww, you don't have to bow to me Kat, just kneel in front!

[Kattypilla]

You'd be lucky!

[streetrules]

Cheers guys, glad you liked the Merc, depending on my potential cirumstance change I'm hopefully going to do a full body resto, put it on airbags and wang on some shiney circles Mmmmmmm, chrome

[streetrules]

Hi guys, a mini is now in my good lady's ownership and it needs a mini resto (ahem...) I'll get some pictures up asap but it's had a body rebuild from the door handles down, roof is traight too. Trouble is I'm 6ft 2" and had to drive it to its current resting place...Backache a gogo.

It has a bit of a sticky clutch but aside from that it seems good. It also needs a new interior and has a few scabs. I want to sound deaden it to the max as otherwise I think a soundsystem would be pointless. Do you lot have any advice about the best headliner and sound proofing shizzle to use?

Are there also any good paint shops in the south west? It would be a minter if it the body was 100%. I don't suppose you lot also know of good places to get some 7x13/14's too? I now have to convince her that lowering it would be a good plan...

The car she bought has done about 90k though, and although it seems a little high it wasn't too bad for £500, especially considering the body. Power plants (if you can call the 998cc unit that) are cheap, body's aren't!

But basically, if you know of good places to get stuff in the s/west area then please do let me know.

Matt