9 replies to this topic

[lewis_holley]

Hi all, new to the mini forum. I always wanted a mini when I was in college but never brought one because understanding that I was young and foolish I wanted something that would offer more protection than a paper cup in the event of an accident.

It has just so happened that 4 years later I have now just had that “accident�. And I was right, my modern German car softened the blow nicely and I’m glad I wasn’t in a mini! Unfortunately, seeing as I am still young(ish) and foolish, I was only insured TPFT and have had no option but to beak it down and sell it for parts.

On the bright side, now I’m now in the market for a mini! ) I’ll have about £1600- £2100 to spend on a mini and really need to know weather I will realistically be able to buy a reliable daily runner that will get me to the office and back for that sort of money. I’m a trained mechanic but not by trade, so I’d still like to think I have a good idea what to look out for mechanically. Either way I think I will need your help and expertise to help me clarify a few things… Will it actually be possible for me to buy a rust free mini or is that just a myth? How much of a problem will high miles be on a well looked after mini? What do I really need to be looking out for?

I am genuinely quite excited about the prospect of becoming a mini owner (even though I have just lost about 10 grand!). I will be interested in whatever you have to say and will appreciate any constructive input!

Thanks guys!

[stickycreambun]

main point I think is mechanicals are fairly simple to sort, its the bodywork thats the killer! look out for as sound a body as you can, the rest you can work on as you go along!

good luck!

[Teapot]

Welcome to our world. Your budget will find you a good mini if you're patient and careful, but the main thing is you're not buying so a much a car as a way of life. It's not just a commuter car you can park outside and forget.

[FiddyB]

welcome


main thing is rust, once that sets in then your gonna be forever welding, if you can check the underside of the car and under the carpets, especially around any of the joints

but i bought a rust free 1976 for 2k so they are out there, had it a year and only one or two problems so far

Edited by FiddyB, 03 February 2008 - 07:40 PM.

[mini_mawds]

welcome mate. ye just look out for rust on the floor pan and subfames. dont turn your nose up at a little rust in the normal places like wings, scuttle, A-panels they are relitively easy to sort out. i had a new front end all welded on for just £80 (labour) and the panels are quite cheap. when people ask me on advice on buying a mini i tell them that a mini is like owning a puppy, and it is.

[minicb]

Hi, Welcome to tmf!

[mk1leg]

Hi..!..and welcome to TMF I hope you find a cheap and rust free mini.................good luck they are hard to find......................

[james962]

Welcome to TMF lewis

james

[lewis_holley]

That’s all good to know. I will have time and devotion to give to my mini and I’ve got no qualms with getting my hands dirty. Cars have always meant a lot more to me than just a means of transport/commuting, but at the end of the day no matter how much I look after and how much time and love I have for it, it will still have to perform the task of daily use & commuting. Don’t get me wrong, if I was looking for a hassle free car I’d defiantly be else where!

Thanks for your advice guys, it’s actually almost emotional to see that so many of you actually care! I think I’ll be sticking around for a long while. I’ll let you know how I get on.

P.s to miniCB, I’m in your area, do you have anything worth me looking at (looking at something a wee bit more aggressive looking i.e sports pack arches, hoops with a dish. Or something in between!)

Thanks!

[clubby]

hye mate... welcome to TMF