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I drive a pair of 04 Mountainer's. The leases are up in a couple months, and I want 1 smaller, fun car. The Mountaineer listed for $40,000, and my payment is $325.00 per month, and I put 0 down. The resale on that thing is terrible.
The Mini listed for $29,600. I was quoted $560/month! The resale is great, so I assumed they would offer a much better money factor.
I know I paid 10k off sticker for the mountaineer, and I'm paying sticker for the Mini, I would think that the payment should br close.
Has anyone leased an 06 S for around $325-$350 with $0 down?
The 2007 is very similar to the 2006 at first glance, but depending on how much you follow the Mini depends on how distinguishable it is. I'd venture to say it's very distinguishable--these things stick out: The wheel arch trim is much bigger. Looks terrible--it really sticks out, don't know what they were thinking--it's totally out of proportion to the car now. I could pick out a 2007 on the trim alone. The rear end is substantially different, mostly for the better. The front isn't as nice on the 2007--you lose the lines and proportion by adding heighth and length to the nose--it looks more like an accomodation to the euro pedestrian laws than a further evolution of the Mini (The original designer of the Mini didn't work on the 2007, and IMHO it shows) . The lights are no longer integrated into the clamshell bonnet, but this will be tough to tell with the naked eye. (but the clamshell bonnet still remains--good choice, a standard hood would look awful on the mini). The grill shape is also more angular, less oval--I like old one better.
There will be potentially some very nice additions though--HP may go up slightly (by 5), and wieght should be substantially reduced, and gas mileage should be substantially better on the newer model.
From a looks standpoint, I think the 2006 wins hands down. From a performance standpoint, the 2007 is looking good. I own a 2006 (I bought it specifically because of concerns with the 2007, rather than waiting for the 2007), and bought it with the intention of either holding on to it forever and modding it, or trading in. I'm fairly set on holding on to it (I've added the JCW brakes and suspension), but won't make a final decision until I've driven a 2007.
I custom configured the auto online and it’s scheduled to arrive at the dealership in mid August of 06.
A week ago I logged into my account to check the status of my MINI and noticed a Navigation system was listed as installed even though I did not order it.
I called my MINI Rep that same day and let her know. She confirmed that they did install the navigation and that it was a mistake made on their end (MINI).
My rep told me there is nothing she or the MINI Dealership can do about the mistake. She said my only options are to either:
A.) Take the car “as is” and pay the additional costs of the Navigation
B.) Place a new order and wait for them to build a new car according to my configuration.
Unfortunately I’m not at liberty to wait several more months while a new car is built...nor should I have to. I need a new car by the end of August regardless of what happens. Also, I have a very tight budget and don’t want the navigation system that was installed I bought my own portable navigation so I have no need for one even if I could afford it.
This is such a strange situation; MINI messed up the order and I will be help accountable for it? After waiting so long to get this car I can’t believe this is the result.
Any suggestions would be very much appreciated. Also, has anyone had a similar experience? Does anyone know who I should contact with my issue?
Thanks,
Mike
When did you first place your order?
'11 GMC Sierra 1500; '08 Charger R/T Daytona; '67 Coronet R/T; '13 Fiat 500c; '20 S90 T6; '22 MB Sprinter 2500 4x4 diesel; '97 Suzuki R Wagon; '96 Opel Astra; '08 Maser QP; '11 Mini Cooper S
Here's the reply email I got from the Mini Cooper factory in Oxford England about closures and or production of the Mini's being slowed:
Dear * * *
Thank you for your email to MINI Customer Information.
We can confirm that during the summer of 2006 an extended closure is planned for the refurbishment of the visitor centre at plant Oxford and updates to the tour. The dates of this closure are still to be advised.
We hope this information is of help.
Yours sincerely
MINI UK
Muneerah Sadiq
Product Information Advisor
Ellesfield Avenue
Bracknell RG12 8TA
Tel: 0800 083 6464
Fax: 0870 5050 206
Email: customer.information@mini.co.uk
Website: www.mini.co.uk
His reply to my email is a little confusing to me... I'm not too sure if the visitor's center extended closure in August includes the production plant. H-m-m-m-m :confuse:
Also, we went to a dealership on the North Shore of Long Island, NY before going to where I purchased my Cooper. We tried to bargain w/ the manager but he was such a B*****d!! He only gave us a $250 discount. What an insult. Also, his 'air" about him really turned me off and I wasn't going to give this dealership 1 cent of my hard earned $$$.
1) Should I wait until the 2007s are being offered? If so, when will that be?
2) Is there any dealer in CA (I'm in SF but am willing to go to either border) that sells for MSRP? The one here does not, and I'm yet to call the other three in the area.
3) I would like to trade in my car during this fiasco. I've bought new cars before, but never "ordered" one. Can I do a traade in for this?
4) If there is not a dealer in CA that will sell at MSRP, I will likely go to Wisconsin (have family there). Does anyone know what it will cost me to then bring it back into CA?
Thanks guys
When the new Mini came out in 2002, it was plagued by a number of problems all over the car--from build quality, to engine stumble and yo-yo. It really wasn't until 2004 (for the base Mini) or 2005 (For the Mini S) that the major issues were sorted out. The 2007 will be new from the ground up, and done by a different design team that created the first Mini--I'd wait at least until 2008, or even better, 2009, to get the bugs worked out--the new engine is an order of magnitude more complicated than the old one.
Either way, if you decide to buy in Wisconsin, International Motors is very, very good--that's where I got mine (at MSRP with mats thrown in--that's it). Knauz in Chicago (Not too far from Milwaukee) is also a wonderful dealer.
I just ordered my Mini Cooper and then saw in the Owner's Lounge, plant tour section that the plant is closed in August! Bad timing! Like everyone else, I wasn't sure if this meant just for tours, the entire plant, all of August, etc.
So, I emailed Mini to find out and got the nice (and clear) reply below about the factory vacation time -- July 31st to August 13th, with production being halted during this time. Hopefully, Minis on order will be at the top of the list when production starts up again! I have to keep saying to myself: "patience is a virtue, patience is a virtue..."
Max
~~~~~~~~~~~
Hi Max:
Thanks for contacting MINI. I am happy to answer your question.
The MINI plant in Oxford, England is closed from July 31st through August 13th. Production is halted during this time.
I hope this answers your question. If there are further questions I can assist with, please feel free to drop me an e-mail. I will be happy to lend a hand.
LET’S MOTOR.
Carrie Zartman
MINI Customer Relations and Services
Representative
866.ASK.MINI (275-6464)
Who knows with these guys though...
Anyway, I found the answers to my own questions in my post above. I went to East Bay Mini in Pleasanton on Wednesday, put my $1000 down and ordered my Cooper. I paid MSRP but have quite a wait (8-15 weeks). Every other dealer in the SF Bay Area charges a minimum of $1000 over MSRP, going as high as $2500 over in some cases, so I'm guessing that East Bay gets a lot of business because of this and that's why it takes longer with them. I'm patient though They will negotiate my trade-in and other terms about 2 weeks before the car is due in.
Dear Brenda
Thank you for your further reply.
We can confirm that it is only the MINI Visitor Centre which is the subject
of refurbishment.
Production of the MINI in all its forms will continue as before with MINIs
rolling off the production line on a daily basis and also being delivered to
MINI Dealerships, MINI Customers and MINI Shows throughout the UK and the
rest of the world.
We hope that this reassures you and would advise that we are not yet aware
of when the refurbishment will be complete.
Yours sincerely
MINI UK
Elfriede McNeal
Product Information Advisor
Also, here's another comments on the matter at motoringfile.com:
To all concerned:
The factory closure will not delay the production of MINIs. However, it has severly decreased the monthly allocation to each dealership. MINI Delearships only received an allocation of 15 to 20 MINIs for August Production. This is very small compared to the usual 40 to 50 MINIs. When late September comes around, most MINI lots should be empty.
The 2006 Hardtop will be built through October for the United States. 2007 Hardtop production for the US Market will begin in December and should reach dealerships in February. Most dealerships will be receiving around 12 units for the first month.
Worldwide MINI Sales Down in 2006
Sections: Sales Aug 3rd, 2006
Measures to expand the production capacity of the Oxford plant to approximately 240,000 units per year have impacted on the sales volume of the MINI brand over the six-month period. As a result of the reduced production volume during this period, worldwide MINI sales, at 101,063 units, were down by 6.5% compared to one year earlier (first half-year 2005: 108,114 units).
Source: BMW Group Press
MINI Plant Oxford To Close for Construction
Sections: In the Press Jul 31st, 2006
As reported previously, BMW will be halting production for a couple of weeks while it puts the finishing touches on plant remodelling in anticipation of full R56 production. You can read more about it from the Sunday Times:
Last year Oxford built 200,119 Minis. Helmut Panke, who retires next month after four boom years as BMW chairman, predicts that production will rise to 230,000 over the next few years. BMW is spending £100m on expanding the Oxford facility and expects to create an additional 200 jobs there by the end of next year.
But, like the original BMC Mini of the 1960s, the car is not very profitable. Bernd Pischetsrieder, a former BMW chief who now heads VW, once described the sales margin as “unacceptable” and wanted to set the Mini Cooper’s price higher than the £11,600 at its 2001 launch.
[ BMW to Boost MINI Production ] Sunday Times
- Mark
Also, what is the consensus on adding options such as the DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) or LSD (Limited Slip Differential). Can one actually notice these things while driving?
Thanks for your input.
In the past, I've bought two 1st year production cars (VW Jetta & Honda Civic) and I'd never do it again... It seems that there are always bugs that need to be worked out. Since 2007 has a new motor and body style, I'd stay clear for at least 2 years if it was me. I've been considering buying another MCS in 2009 or late 2008.
If you like spirited driving, and are going to do anything on a track, the LSD is a must. It makes a huge difference taking a corner
I have mixed feelings about the DSC. Once your at speed, it can help significantly with regard to slipping. However, it's awful for taking off in slick stuff--it'll almost bring you to a complete stop, which can be very dangerous; it's just too intrusive. Fortunately, you can turn it off. If I had it to do over again, I'd get the LSD only, and hold off on the DSC, but that's just me.
Trust me that Mini dealers are making plenty of money. I have bought 2 Subarus and 1 Honda from dealer and paid very close to invoice every time. Those guys still made money too.
Do you research on this site before you buy your first car. It will save you lots of $$$.
p.s. I know NOTHING about wheels, engines, etc. Does anyone recommend particular sites that will tell me all I need to know (lol)? I'll be paying cash, so would that make any difference in MSRP or final price? Thanks again.
As for the Mini, because I haven't owned one yet, I can't make much comment on reliability yet, but I've been reading a lot about them, asking friends, doing research. It seems the first 2 years (2002-2003) had problems, but that after 2004 they got better. I'm buying a 2006 for two reasons:
1) I want the warranty so if there are any problems, it will be covered. The Mini is, afterall, a BMW, so they have to be a bit more tempramental then say a Toyota and they are a bit more expensive to repair. Brakes all around, for instance, I've been quoted, cost about $700. Oil changes are expensive, but they don't have to be done as often. Recommended every 10,000 miles because they use synthetic oil. The Cooper S requires premium gas; it's recommended for the Cooper, too, I think.
2) The 2007 Mini will be a new production year... it will be much the same as the 2006, but the production line is being retooled for some of the changes. If you read through this forum and talk to others, you'll see that first year production of a car is usually not a good time to buy. So, I decided to buy a 2006. If I like the Mini Cooper I ordered, I figured I can always keep it for a while or trade up to a better one in 2008, when they should have any kinks worked out.
I can't say how the car will function in snow, but I beleive the Mini is front-wheel drive, and they usually do better in snow.
They are small, so dogs... i don't know.
Above all, if you like the Mini, go for it, because my experience just test driving them has been great. They are fun to drive, cool, different, and easy to park! Why not have a car you like? And the gas mileage isn't bad (although I could be better!) I thought about the convertible, but beyond not being able to afford one right now, I sat in one and it seemed like the driver's seat did not go as far back as in the regular Cooper and S. Maybe I'm crazy, but I assume this is because they need some space in the back for the top to fold down. This is an issue for me because I'm 6'2" and need the legroom. In fact, besides loving the Mini, this is one of the reasons I'm buying one... because the driver seat goes all the way back. (No leg room behind it, but oh well). None of the other cars I've driven have had that legroom, except maybe the Rabbit.
One more thing... even though the Mini is dwarfed by "those SUVs", it does have a fairly good crash test rating (God forbid) and lots of airbags. So they are supposedly pretty safe.
Oh, and I have a friend that drove his across country and loved it! I'm planning a few road trips already if the car would just get delivered!!!
As for wheels... the run-flats sound like a good deal, but remember, they are more expensive to replace. The Cooper S obviously has more power than the Cooper, but the gas mileage isn't quite as good.
Hope this helps!
I live outside of Asheville, NC, so I could certainly check out Memphis...do I actually need to go there? I.e., can I negotiate and do all that kind of thing over the phone, then go for pick-up? I'm sure that's a stupid question. The reason I HAVE to have a convertible is because of the Jeep I had. I loved the open-air feeling. I missed that about premium gas, but I can't afford the S, so "recommended" doesn't mean I HAVE to use premium, does it? Aside from that, I've only owned one Datsun, Toyota and 2 Subaru's, so I tend to stay away from American cars.
Congratulations on yours! How exciting! It seems that I've read quite a bit about people having to wait (?). I really hope you get yours soon. The salesman who called awhile ago (I finally played his message) was calling from Greenville, SC, the nearest dealer; he said he had received my internet request and wants me to call him to discuss everything, so I don't know if that means they've got them on the lot or not. Maybe one of your road trips should be here, so you can do the salesman thing. Lol. May I ask if your color choice causes a longer wait than usual? I'm loving the green and the silver...phew, they are so cool looking.
Lastly, Mini....how do I get over feeling sorry for the salesman, whose standard of living I feel I'm affecting if I don't pay more so he gets more commission? Is there not a way to bypass salesmen and just deal with a dealership? I.e., if I know what I want ('06 convertible, premium pkg., XXX color), do I STILL have to go through that process with salespeople?
Thanks again for your help; I feel so much better about this vehicle, esp. since you did your homework and decided to buy one yourself. You've done a good deed today, believe me. Much appreciation!
If you're in North Carolina, you should check the dealers nearby. There's one in Winston-Salem, NC, that has a good website... like the Memphis dealer, it has "real" pictures and info. It's www.flowmini.com. In terms of seeing how their prices are, find a car on there you like, then go to www.miniusa.com and build the same car and see how the prices align. Then you can see if they are raising the price at all. It might be hard to determine exactly because many dealers install little extras like floor mats, chrome tail pipe covers, aux. input jacks for MP3 players, etc.
You could definitely deal with the dealer here in Memphis and then pick it up, but i would suggest seeing the Mini in person and driving one if you haven't. There are so many custom options on the Minis that each one is different, so you need to make sure you know what you like -- i.e., what color dash you want, whether you want sport seats or regular seats, all the color combinations that are available. (FYI, I think the sport seats are a great improvement over the standard seats. And I think the mult-function steering wheel is great.)
The only two colors that are "free" are chilli red and pepper white. All of the other colors are $450. When you order, you can select whatever color combination you want; this doesn't add any time to the order. The biggest time issue is shipping the cars from England and then to the dealer, but I think they dock in South Carolina, so it should be quick to you. The avg. wait is 6-8 weeks after an order is placed. The other reason to order is you can customize the car exactly to your liking.
If you buy from the lot, most dealers order a mix of colors. I ordered the pure silver with black roof, but there are so many great color combinations that I'm still unsure if I made the right choice! I feel that I would get tired of the red quickly. The green is nice, too, esp. with a white roof. I usually don't like white, but Mini's Pepper White with a black roof is pretty cool. I think having a contrast roof is key, but there is an all Space Blue Metallic S on the Memphis lot that is pretty sweet. However, mine's already in the works and I'm sure I'll like it once it is here. The pure silver definitely doesn't show dirt as much. And I can always change to another color in the future!
Don't worry about the salesmen!! They are making money. These guys will not sell a car without making some money. Check what this poster wrote:
martijnh, "MINI Cooper: Prices Paid & Buying Experience" #459, 22 Aug 2006 12:38 pm
As far as I know you have to go through a salesperson. That's their job and they are getting paid something. In fact, they probably have a quota they are trying to make so they want customers. Just find one you like. Although I've only dealt with the dealer in Memphis, I think, generally, the Mini "culture" tries to promote a fun, friendly experience, not like "typical" car salesman, although based on posts from West Coasters, that may not be true there. The only thing Mini dealers won't do, is barter on the MSRP like other car dealers. They can sell their cars for MSRP and do.
As for the premium gas thing... I know the S requires it, but I'm unsure about the Cooper. I've heard all different theories. Some say you can swap between regular and premium, others say only premium. I'm going to see if I can find more about that and also ask the dealer and get their input.
So, go to the Winston-Salem or Charlotte dealer and drive one or two or three. Check out all the different options they have. I'm an automatic guy, but actually ordered a 5-speed because they are fun to drive. And most of all, don't feel pressured to buy one on the spot. Mini's are lesss of a commodity than other cars. They are specialty cars and the dealers know this. If you don't find the Mini you want on the lot, ask them what is "incoming" and see if it fits with what you want. Dealers can lookup what cars they have on order, and also what cars are already being shipped and are unspoken for -- this is a piece of info. I learned form the Memphis dealer - some cars are shipped but not allocated to a particular dealer until they hit U.S. shores, so dealers can put a request in for these cars. I test drove about 3 or 4 at the Memphis dealer. They were patient and then helped me place my order for the one I wanted.
Good luck!
I'm new to the board so please forgive me if this question's been answered in one form or another.
I just moved to Dallas, and am looking at Moritz Mini and BMW of Dallas.
The particular model I'm looking at (Moritz) is a new silver Cooper S Convertible that's been on the lot since March (it's nearly September). Is this a red flag? If the color was undesirable, this would be understandable, but that's
not the case. It has black leatherette seats, steering wheel controls, and the Cold Weather Package. Does the long time it's been sitting on the lot give me any leverage in terms of negotiating?
Secondly, more of a general car industry question, as I'm going to buy now, but... is there a point when dealers will do ANYTHING to unload '06 models, or do they have some alternate methods of taking care of old excess inventory that don't involve selling in a panic?
Thanks for all your help...
BoBo_C
Yes, you can use the time it has sat or the demo miles on the car as negotiating tools. How much discount can you expect? Hard to say. Assuming the car has less than 50 miles or so and assuming it is the car you want, I'd start with maybe $2K off and see what they say. My guess is that they'll come off a grand at most.
Dealers will discount models that are not moving, but you're not going to get them to take $5K off or anything. They know what the car is worth and they understand that eventually a butt walks through the door for every seat. They're in the business and aren't going to be panic-selling anything at a fire-sale price. They'll probably negotiate, but have reasonable expectations. It all depends on the local supply/demand situation and it varies from month-to-month and even day-to-day.
- Mark
I'm still debating whether to add the bike rack that fits on the rear of the Mini. Does anyone have this accessory on their Mini? How about installing one with the Rear Park Distance Control? I was told by my dealer that the "alarm" would only sound if I had bikes on the rack. Another dealer told me the opposite (that it would sound all the time whether there were bikes on the rack or not). Does anyone have any experience with this that wants to give me their take on it?
Thanks in advance...
Since only 2000 Mini Cooper S GP Editions are being produced worldwide, with 415 coming to the US, what do you think this car will be worth short term and long term?
Thanks,
Lee
And you've got the new turbo cars coming - it's quite possible that within a year or two, Mini will produce a variant of the new model for $26K which blows the doors off this model for $14K less. This just feels like a last-gasp attempt to inject some new life in the old model.
- Mark
I'm interested in custom odering a 2006 Mini Cooper S and wanted to know how the experience has been. Is there anything that can be done with pricing? I'm in the Tri-State area.
Thanks for the help!
Jaydeep
- Mark
Jaydeep
Thanks,
Jeannine Fallon
Corporate Communications
Edmunds.com
We would like to buy our first mini and are looking at two, privately owned used Mini S types.
Car 1 is a 2005 with 20,500 miles on it. Premium/ Cold weather & Sports packages. Automatic transmission. Harmon Kardon sound system. From the pics looks very well maintained. I happen to know the owner and she is asking $24,000 but would let us have it for $22,000.
Car 2 is a 2004 also with 20,500 miles. John Cooper Works & Power Packages. Sport/ Cold Weather & Convenience packages. Leather seats & Navigation system. Harmon Kardon sound system. The owner is asking around $23,000.
Which should we go for??? I have heard that '05 is a 'better' car, but the '04 is so well optioned. Please advise asap as we need to make a decision within a day or two!
Thank You!!
Car #1 is an automatic, so that would rule it out for me. Knowing the owner is a big plus.
Car #2 is stacked with the JCW and navigation. This car's warranty could expire soon.
It's a personal choice. I don't care much for navigation. Automatic would be a showstopper. That said, if you don't mind the automatic, then I would go with #1. BTW, these prices seem reasonable. May I ask where you live?
I wonder though if most people would want stick shift - don't want to have a problem with resale??
Agree that the warrenty expiration is a concern with car #2.
It's a tough decision!!
We live in New Jersey.
ie - the NEW 2007 models will have a massive improvement in power in the base version - enough that a 6-speed in it will be about halfway between the old base and the old S.
I'd recommend a Mazda 3 which can be had brand new for MUCH less than you're going to pay for either of these used Minis.
- Mark
-----------------------------------------------------
I completely disagree. The car is front wheel drive so that makes it
better in snow compared to an all wheel drive vehicle. Also, I'm not
sure if the guy that you spoke with had the sports package on his Mini
but with that package comes the dynamic stability control which also
helps with driving in icy conditions...basically if you start to slide
the stability control kicks in and distributes the weight of the car to
stop the sliding. I didn't drive it a lot in snowy conditions because,
you're right, the NJ turnpike is usually cleared and clean in bad
weather, however, in visiting Bobby's relatives in Vermont over
Christmas we drove in a lot of snow and had no problem.