r56 vs r50

Choosing the right pre-owned MINI is no easy task. There are tones of, sometime contradicting, information online about the topic and it’s easy to get lost in the process.

Naturally, one of our readers, Vincent, decided to reach out and ask if we could steer him in the right direction. Vincent is interested in models from 2004 and onward, but he is not sure what he should be mindful of as far as potential mechanical issues are concerned.

The big choice there is between the R50/R53 generation and the R56 generation. In our minds both have excellent cases to be made but the only real deciding factor will be test drives.

Based on our experience, we have a couple of recommendations for Vincent:

– LCI models are better options. That is MINIs between 2005-2006 and 2011-2013 (this is especially true of the R50/R53)
– Stay away from automatic CVT at all costs in the R50
– Watch for potential rust in the door sills of the R50/R52/R53 cars
– Make sure to check the service records as MINIs are known to have oil starvation problems
– On the 2007-2010 R56 be very careful to investigate any chain tensioner issues

My ultimate recommendation would be to reach out to Nathaniel as he is selling a very well maintained [2006 Cooper S](https://www.motoringfile.com/2014/11/25/mf-garage-hard-choices/), but that’s just me. There’s also the MotoringFile also Buyers’ Guides for the [R50](https://www.motoringfile.com/mini-r50r53-buyers-guide/) and [R53](https://www.motoringfile.com/mini-r50r53-buyers-guide/) that contain precious tidbits. And since I’m definitely not the mechanical expert, I’m sure our readers won’t hesitate to chime in and provide Vincent with valuable advice.

Thanks again Vincent for reaching our and thank you all in advance for your comments!