Open and shut case: Why you should buy a £5k Mini Convertible
Suspension: Listen out for a knocking noise from the front suspension because the control arm bushings like to make a racket when they’re worn. A new bushing is around £30, plus fitting.
Body: Door seal rubber can rub away the paint on the inside. You can buy door-shut paint protection film to stop the issue from recurring. Also check for clouding in the wing mirrors. New glass is around £20.
Roof: Ensure it operates smoothly and quickly. They don’t commonly fail, but if they do, repair bills could be in the thousands. The optional wind deflector is a must-have, but easily available online.
Water leaks: Again, not a common issue, but if the roof is not sealing properly and letting water in, there is the potential for big bills.
Interior: Don’t be surprised if the dashboard trim rattles, especially on higher-mileage cars.
Also worth knowing
Wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were added as an option in 2018 (look for the widescreen nav) but can be retrofitted on earlier models.
Options push up the price of used examples. The Harman Kardon sound system and leather seats are particularly desirable.
Trim designations weren’t added until 2018, and even then the Classic, Exclusive and Sport packages could still be loaded up with options.
Power dropped a little in 2021 for the Cooper S (to 176bhp) but you’d be hard-pressed to notice.
Insurance is reasonable, with groups ranging from 11 to 33.
How much to spend
£3000-£6999: High-mileage cars (mostly wearing it well). Lower-spec Coopers and Cooper Ds with fewer than 100k miles too.
£7000-£9999: Early cars, with Cooper Ss and JCWs available at a four-figure premium.
£10,000-£14,999: Desirable 2018 facelifted cars with the Union flag rear lights.
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