I started off looking for a 2003/4 Cooper S, but I was put off by the reports of poor quality and high resale price (good if you're selling, but bad if you're buying). I ended up buying a new 2006. The key to buying a new MINI Cooper S is to keep the options to a bare minimum. It's easy to get carried away with the options and end up with a VERY expensive car.
The acceleration is adequate (maybe I'm expecting too much-my other 'fun' car is a V8 Miata). The handling and braking are outstanding, and in six months of ownership I've had an 'occasional' buzz in the dash....problem wise, that's it. The first servicing is at 15,000 km
![Shocked :o](https://www.autos.ca/forum/Smileys/CarTalk/shocked.gif)
. I couldn't wait. I changed the oil at 5,000 km. Finally words; I love the zenon (Xenon?) headlights, and dislike the front seats (sticky leatherette (we used to call it vinyl), and uncomfortable.