Can you help me pick a used car? (CT200H vs Countryman S)

Bobby_G

Hello!
I am currently looking for a vehicle around low $10k.
Ive came to these two listings and having a hard time picking one out.

2012 MINI Countryman S with 68k miles for $11,500
2014 Lexus CT200h with 100k miles for $12,500

Things i am concerned about is
1. How long will these cars last me? will i need to fix up lot of stuff as take ownership of these car? meaning are there lots of small or large repairs that i need to make for these particular models? are they notorious for any problems at those milages?

2. are they safe?


I would appreciate any help from you guys and it will help me a lot.

Thank you!

benjaminh

A Lexus is likely to be more reliable than a Mini. Even though it has more miles, the Lexus is probably the better value, but make sure you get whatever you get thoroughly checked out by a mechanic who specialized in that brand before you buy. In terms of safety, they should be pretty good, but small cars overall aren't generally as safe as larger vehicles.

If you want reliable and long-lasting, a new Honda Civic might be a better path to take, and will likely save you money in the long run. If that's out of your range, maybe consider a new Hyundai Elantra.

roadburner

I wouldn't by either car without a thorough PPI by a tech who KNOWS the respective makes. Me, I'd take the Mini if it passed its PPI. The Lexus is too dangerous for me; I'd die of abject boredom driving it.