3 replies to this topic

[HuwR]

Hello all.

 

I am new to both classic mini's and this forum, so forgive me if this is the wrong place to ask or my questions seem a bit silly/obvious. 

 

I am toying with the idea of selling my current car (2010 Renault Twingo Gordini RS) and getting a classic mini instead. 

 

A local auction house has 2 options for sale: a '92 Mini Cooper 1.3 SPI @ £9000 and a '97 Mini Cooper Works 1.3 Si @ £17000

 

My questions relate to the differences mechanically between the SPI variant which I believe is the standard 1.3 engine vs the "souped" up 85bhp Cooper Works. If I were to purchase the more expensive option, what potential mods in the future could I look to install and does that initial boost up to the 5spd box + the extra work done mean that I would need to do less to it? 

 

Can the lesser powered SPI variant have the same/similar mods carried out to achieve the same results as the Cooper Works leaving the only differences being mostly cosmetic? 

 

I guess i want to boil it down to, is that extra £8000 really worth it to get hold of a Cooper Works? Or would it be a better option getting the cheaper variant or even perhaps looking for a Cooper Sport that falls around that £10-12k mark? 

 

again, unsure if allowed but links to cars in question on here: https://pm-antiques....k/classic-cars/

 

thanks in advance for any help or insight you guys might have here :)

 

Huw

[stuart bowes]

others will be along to advise the in's and outs of the technical stuff

 

but my gut reaction is save your money get the cheaper one and have fun tweaking it over time, you might even be surprised at the nippiness of the cheaper one as it is

 

mods are easily available and all the advice you need is on here (from people other than me!)

 

dont forget ebay can also be a good place to find bargains

 

whatever you choose good luck with it

Edited by stuart bowes, 23 June 2022 - 10:59 AM.

[stuart bowes]

ps the Delta on that site is pure car porn.. nice

[Marky Tizz]

I'm with Stuart. That's a really healthy budget to pick up a solid car that you can mod to your hearts content. All sorts of possibilities with that cash.