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Choosing to buy a MINI Gen2 (R55-R60)

Writer's picture: MINI HYPEMINI HYPE

Start by researching the MINI Cooper R-series model to understand its features, specs, and price. Consider your needs, preferences, and budget to determine which model and trim level is right for you. Then, set a budget for your MINI Cooper purchase. Taking into account factors such as the price of the car, taxes, registration fees, insurance and maintenance costs that may occur. Consider what you can afford and consider financing options if necessary. Test drive different MINI models that interest you, paying attention to factors such as driving dynamics. Comfort, features and overall condition Feel free to ask questions and request additional information from the seller.



  • Clubman R55: It's a 3-door car with the rear door opening like a "pantry", sort of like an Estate or a Hatchback. The driver's door There will be a special small door added called Clubdoor for added convenience in opening and getting things in the back seat...

  • Cooper R56: It is a 3-door hatchback with a rear. “Enough to seat a child” There are both normal models and S, which is a “turbo engine” that changes from 1 which is Supercharge…

  • Cooper Convertible R57: It is a convertible, using the same basis as the R56…

  • Coupe R58 : It is a 2-seat Coupe, full system, no seats in the back. The wheelbase is shorter than R56 - R57 (but the door length is the same). The suspension is set to "firm" with a clear emphasis on sport like the Model 1...

  • Convertible R59: Based on R58, turned into a convertible...

  • Countryman R60: It is a 5-door car. The car is larger than its siblings. Emphasis on comfort in family transportation. High underbody, Crossover style, considered a new section of MINI that "appeals" to the market more and has the ALL 4 model, which is "four-wheel drive" and a "diesel turbo" engine to choose from...

  • Paceman R61: Based on the R60, but has a strange design, namely the 3-door sloped rear. It's kind of like a semi-Sport + Crossover. I can't tell, but it's called a Sport Activity Coupe. There will also be an ALL 4 model to choose from...



The engine is changed to the "Prince" series, developed jointly between PSA PEUGEOT and BMW. The DOHC cylinder head was developed from the previous model which was SOHC. There is a 6 liter "gasoline" type, code N12 without turbo, N14 with turbo and Most of the “minor change” models are called Facelift or the specific term is “LCI” or Life Cycle Impulse that was invented to be called cool. There will be an N16 without turbo and an N18 with turbo…



The N12 and N16 are all based on the same engine. Just modifying some sensors, the straight parts can be used together, but N14 and N18 are "completely different". They look similar, but they're not. Most of the parts are not interchangeable. N18 has been completely redeveloped from the cylinder head. Increase durability Bigger turbo More horsepower than High Pressure pumps that drive "direct injection" for turbo engines, more durable than N14...



The problem is "broken ECU" and it's not just one. Works with the CAS box that controls the key system, the FRM box that controls the electrical system, and the fuse box. As the car ages, it tends to "sleep" and has been "catching up its age" since the N14, and now the N16 has started to encounter this problem so much that the box is out of stock (but the first generation N12 rarely breaks, which is strange) while the N18 still doesn't. Not reaching that age, it's called having to "be careful" and "come to terms with it". It goes according to age like Countdown without having to look for any reasons. As for the price of the ECU + CAS box (it's a set together) it's around "12,000 baht" plus or minus. As for other smaller boxes, it's "2,500 baht" plus or minus. Now the price is a lot cheaper than in the beginning, but "You have to wait for the item" a bit. Here, most car owners tend to (have to) wait because car owners often have other cars. Already in actual use...



High Pressure pumps can be replaced with used items or new items that are after market. No need to be genuine OEM...



The electric steering rack is very durable. There are very few that break and become "loose" and make a rattling sound when driving. The car is not very stable. can be repaired No need to change everything...


The turbo is deteriorating. The "running shaft" makes a loud noise when boosting. Replace the used one in good condition. It's worth more than repairs...



For cars with glass roofs, you often encounter "broken plastic roof gears" due to age. Some people bite into the brass gears. But there will be a bit of noise when working. Which isn't anything serious...



It is recommended that if you are going to buy a Used car, it is better to use the "LCI" model because many problems have been solved. For example, the Cooper S R56 is around "5 - 650,000". If the LCI is around "6 - 8,000,000" you can get the car. Fresher, stronger, but pray you won't find it. "The engine is broken and rotting inside" because the used part of the engine is around 35,000 baht. There may be more than this depending on the condition...



Be careful with various electrical devices. “Can't change it yourself” because changing it will require a new key code to match the thing we changed. It should be the garage's responsibility...



For the ALL 4 model, be careful about the transfer gear set breaking. There will be lubricating oil in the bearing housing. If the oil starts to dry up or deteriorate from "not maintaining" the bearings floating in the oil will “Pressing against the shirt” causes it to break. If you test drive it and it makes a “whining sound,” you should avoid it because spare parts are expensive. If you're not an adventurous type, a "two-wheel drive" vehicle will suffice. Fewer problems, less expensive repairs, and more fuel-efficient...



Diesel engines normally drive well, have good torque, save on fuel, are durable, but you have to be careful if "Duang Kut" comes across a car with a rotten engine, it's a "rough job". The price of the engine is only "hundreds of thousands" because it's abroad, like in "Hong Kong" where Used spare parts sources are not popular with diesel engines at all. causing very few machines to come in So it's hard to find and very expensive...

The conclusion is to prepare money for a large service, approximately 80,000 baht. This price means the car is in good condition. I'm willing to repair a large set and use it for a long time. It's better than frequently repairing a small car, wasting time and being "expensive at the destination"...MINI Gen 2 will give you an unforgettable driving experience. Definitely both fun and stylish. Thank you for this article from XO Autosport.

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