Rover Mini Saloon (1988 - 2001) Cooper 1.3 2d (1991/J) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

I like to think that it says I appreciate classic style and am patriotic (although I'm not, I just like the look of Union Jack wing mirrors), as most of my friends have either a Fiesta or a Saxo.

What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

Neighbours love it as they have more parking space (houses share a drive). Friends think that it is cool, but its not that good for hauling around the family (but I only do this when we go to a party and Mum and Dad drink!)

Would you buy this car again and why?

Definitely, just for the drive and the fact that it's a Mini. Parts are cheaper than air and you can do all the servicing yourself.

What are you likely to buy next?

Possibly another Mini, or a Fiat Seicento or a car of that ilk.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Didn't buy from a dealer

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£750

When did you buy the car?

August 2007

Did you get a good deal and why?

Yes. I paid £750 for a Mini in good nick when I had seen others advertised for twice the amount that were in not as good condition.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

Its a Mini! And also cheap insurance (£545 a year for a newly passed 17 year old, fully comprehensive) and good drive.

What was the dealer like?

Didn't buy from a dealer

What's it like to drive?

If you've recently slipped a disk, this is not a car for you as it picks up bumps that I never even knew existed. However. in my opinion, this adds to the character of the drive. Grip is exellent through corners and the unassisted steering gives a nice, direct feel.

What's it like to park?

Visibility is good.

Have you had any problems with the car?

Mechanically the car was excellent, one of the reasons that I bought it. Subframes, floor pans and sills are all in good condition, a rarity in a 16 year old Mini.

What's most practical about your car?

It's got the larger 7.5 gallon fuel tank fitted!

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

The little air vent things on the dash are fantastic, giving almost air-conditioning type cooling on the move.