OT: Mini Ray vs Cooper S

[Honny]

Hey guys,

As some of you might know I've been in the market for another car to use as a daily driver. I've been looking from GTI's to Abarths, however as much as I love them I need something rather urgently and not wait for yonks. Therefore I've settled my decision on a Mini, however I'm stuck between either the new R56 LCI Ray or a used R56 Cooper S Chilli. Both cars are marked just above the $30,000 range.

So the question is which mini to settle for, I like both the Ray and S. The Ray obviously nowhere close to the S for goodies or power however I see it as a simple and honest approach which is rare in todays cars and being new its mechanically there's peace in mind. The S I've found has 28000km leather and well spec but minor scratches and a dent on the door sill . Speaking to the owner suggests that they know close to noting about cars too. But I've driven the car and theres nothing major I can tell that's wrong.

So guys and girls, help me out.

[SiN55]

"S" and please don't ask why.

[Wizzzz]

As an ex-Cooper S (R56) owner there is no doubt that I would recommend the Cooper S. It's a fantastic car!!

[BBK]

As above, I'm an ex-R56 cooper S owner and there's no question I'd choose it over the Ray. It's a bonus that you won't lose much on it as it's already 2nd hand too.

[Stuart@BMRAutowerkes]

S for sure! Less depreciation hit, way more power, more fun to drive more, more equipment... might be more to insure though, but small trade off.

[Tit]

They're totally different cars! It's not even a question - R56S for sure...

[Honny]

I honestly didnt expect a no-go for the Ray, Its alot of car for under $30k. However it looks like the R56S it is!

Wizz and BBK, are there any major things i should be looking at mechanically before i throw my money on one? I can pm the link to the car if you guys are interested.

[BBK]

I didn't really keep it long enough to come into any problems or issues so I can't really help...

[Jeef Beef]

Watch out for carbon buildup on the S if the previous owner has just used it to plod along everyday. Heard a few owners had to let go of their Minis when the issue got real bad

[Wizzzz]

Originally Posted by BBK

I didn't really keep it long enough to come into any problems or issues so I can't really help...

Pretty much the same for me.
The only issue I every had was rattles in the dash (known MINI problem) which was eventually fixed after multiple dealer visits.

If you want, send me a link to the car your looking at. Happy to give an opinion on it.