Hey everyone! Just a quick hello to introduce myself. I happened across a 2002 MINI through a local craigslist ad from Swiderski Motors in Buffalo. Honest guy, good price. It's my first, so naturally after reading about some of the transmission issues in the early models, I'm waiting for a shoe to drop...but until it does, I'm pretty jazzed with it. Do they all run stiff in the ass? It has 16's with run-flats and doing the research regarding rear suspensions/tire options. Of course you can mod them all day but will it make any difference? On the highway it seems happiest, but the Buffalo streets force me to drive around the smallest of cracks and potholes (which is still fun). Happy and safe motoring in the new year to you all!!!
Welcome to the club! Always good to have another MINI around.
I don't own the 1st generation MINI (R53) so I can't comment directly on the transmission but from what I've heard it was the automatics that were problematic (not sure if that is what you have or not). As far as the rough ride and run flats, we do share those wonderful joys in the 2nd generation (R56) MINI's and I completely understand. I went from a car that felt only the worst of all bumps in the nation to the MINI Cooper S which arguably transfers all the bumps! Some have recommended ditching the run flat tires and have been very happy with their decision so you could probably read a few threads around here about that directly. I might be doing that with my next set of tires.
A few things for you to consider now that you are a MINI Owner! - Wave/honk/flash lights to other MINI Owners (even if they don't reciprocate its a blast) - Find some winding roads as often as possible, this is worth it! - Go on a few motoring events with us (when we thaw and start doing them again) - Post pictures of your MINI here, I always enjoy seeing MINI's after all.
Morgan
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The first rule of MINI ownership is always wave at the other MINIs. The second rule of MINI ownership is always wave at the other MINIs.
Thanks for the response! I have the manual version (thank heavens) but according to the carfax it's been replaced three times, the last was summer of 2011. I bought it anyway and figure the third time will be a charm. It makes me feel a little better about the ride, too. I understand they arent cadillacs, just on the fence about installing new shock/springs in the rear if it still rides like a tank...I'll be in the market for some new summer rims and rubber and may just go the traditional route as it has the hideaway spare. Thanks for the wave/honk/flash...I was wondering!!!!
BMW club (http://www.gvc-bmwcca.org/EventDescriptions/Autocross.aspx), Finger Lakes Region SCCA (http://www.flr-scca.com/solo/schedule.html), Western NY SCCA (http://www.wny-scca.com/index.php?topic=167.0), etc, all run events. It is a blast!
