2003 BMW Mini Cooper review from North America
"Worth waiting out the delivery time"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
My transmission had a problem with reverse - it was very hesitant and often took up to 10 tries before it would actually shift. The transmission was repaired under warranty at about 8000km.
Other warranty repairs were minor and included a rattling in the driver's door and fit and finish details.
My local MINI dealer was always very prompt and willing to offer me a loaner car whenever warranty repairs were required.
General comments?
Having chosen a Cooper over the more powerful Cooper S, I never regretted going with the smaller engined model. It is still very quick, perhaps not so much in a straight line, but around corners it is without rival. Apparently the MINI can run through a slalom faster than a Porsche 911 (although I've never tried that myself).
Around town it is SO much fun to drive - I can't even convey the feeling. You'll just have to go take one on a test drive.
The sales staff at my local dealer are very friendly and always accomodating.
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| High on smiles per gallon |
|
| 2002 - Mini Cooper 1.6L 4 cylinder You're not paying for the quality factor |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Year of manufacture | 2003 |
| First year of ownership | 2003 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2004 |
| Engine and transmission | 1.6 inline 4 Manual |
| Performance marks | 7 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 7 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 8 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 10 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 8 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 17 kilometres |
| Most recent distance | 12000 kilometres |
| Previous car | Triumph TR6 |
| Date of Entry | 15th May, 2004 |