This forum seems a nice place to be so thought I'd better introduce myself, as I've been lurking a few days! Recently picked up a pepper white F56 Cooper Sport ii from DP in Stirling, having previously had an R56 (a few years ago now) and a diesel F55.
We originally had the new Puma on order but due to a combination of Covid and brexit the delivery date kept being pushed so we just decided just to buy nearly new instead.
Always loved Minis and missed our R56 when we traded it back in 2015, so shopped around for a low mileage Cooper Sport and secured this one at a good price. No photos as yet, but here is a video link from DP prior to us buying - https://video.citnow.com/vtsQP7QRk6g
It was obviously a very different buying experience and with not being able to fully check the car over prior to collection there were a few issues, but I'm assured they will be addressed by the dealership, in the next few weeks hopefully.
I've already fitted a stubby aerial and a set of mudflaps are waiting to go on asap. Also picked up another set of black Track Spoke alloys (but 501s) with winter tyres fitted. Initially I thought about stripes but now think I prefer the cleaner look on this one.
Its our 2nd car, mainly used by my wife. I have an F31 330d which I need for work duties, dog cage etc but I'd seriously consider 2 Minis otherwise. Some of the cars on here are great, particularly the F56 GPs, but two seats would be a bit of a problem with 3 of us plus dog!
I'm a keen driver but I've had my fill of out and out speed over the years (and the consequences) so the subtleties of a good handling car at legal speeds are more important to me. The 1.5 petrol is sprightly enough for a car this size and although I prefer the balance of RWD, the turn in on this Mini is very entertaining.
Only real concern I have is the lengthy service intervals - didn't bother me on the F55 Cooper D (which was leased) but the plan is to keep this car long term so I'm considering extra oil changes for peace of mind, although I will extend the warranty when it runs out in 2023.
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