6 replies to this topic

[happyhayleysinging]

I'm hoping to be the proud owner of a mini very soon having started the search in December 2014.  I owned a 1998 mini cooper approximately 10 years ago but had to sell her due to work commitments but now I have the finances to own another mini so I've decided that the time is now right.  I thought with £5,000 I would have enough money but having done searches on the internet, then getting a short list and today doing a three hundred mile round trip I have become a little disillusioned. I've found cars that are described as immaculate condition as having quite a bit of rust,  a lovely car (but unfortunately registered as a CAT D) and no mini coopers that are in my price bracket.  

 

I'm seeking advice as to whether I am asking to much and should I lower my expectations?  Do members think I will need to save a little more to get a good mini cooper at £5,000 or am I not looking in the right place.  Any help gratefully received.  

[Wupding]

Hey Hadley

Welcome to the the forum.... And it's nice to see another new member local to me.

I am in the same position as you. Mini prices have gone up dramatically in the last 12 months. As for your question. I would definitely say about the 7k mark for a very good condition cooper

[Carlos W]

£5000 is a good budget. Unfortunately there are a lot of tarted up dogs out there.

 

Keep an eye out on the classifieds here

[Ben_O]

£5000 is a good budget. Unfortunately there are a lot of tarted up dogs out there.

 

I said something along these lines to someone else the other day.

 

a higher budget won't necessarily get you a better car.

 

In this case, i would say wait it out and get the right car for the right price. It sounds like you are prepared to travel so that is a big +

 

Good luck and welcome to the Forum

 

Ben 

[Ethel]

I wouldn't be automatically be put off by a Cat D. on a car that's at least 14 years old.  Virtually all Minis will have had some body repairs. As long as it's properly repaired, and you can insure it at a decent value for a reasonable premium.

 

They're now seen as desirable 'n collectible, unfortunately that attracts profiteers - the asking prices are often higher than selling prices. 

[happyhayleysinging]

Thanks for all the replies, going to look at another one this afternoon but as you've recommended I'm not rushing into anything.  I'm quite enjoying looking!

[ibrooks]

Could also be useful to join a local club both from the point of view of maybe getting someone who knows them inside out to go and look at potential cars with you and to tap into another branch of the "grapevine" to hear about possible cars.

 

www.leylandminiclub.com

 

 

Iain