If you buy a new Mini Cooper, it's going to lose some of its value, like any new car, immediately after you drive it off the lot. The best value might be found in buying a used Mini Cooper. With this value, however, comes the risk of purchasing a lemon and the uncertainty of the price of a used car, which can vary greatly depending on its year, condition and mileage. To find the used Mini Cooper that will suit you, do your research ahead of time and keep your options open.
Determine what year Mini Cooper would be best for you. For example, you might want a car that was manufactured within the last five years. Mini Coopers manufactured between 2002 and 2006 have retained their value better than other models, according to Edmunds.com. Information like this will help you target your search.
Set a maximum amount that you are willing to pay and a limit on the amount of mileage on the potential purchase. Visit used car dealerships and ask a salesperson to direct you only to models that fit within your predetermined guidelines. For the price, start low at first, since dealers aren't going to drop the price when they already know the maximum you're willing to pay.
Visit dealer websites. Continue to visit the websites of dealerships that one day could obtain a used Mini Cooper that they could sell to you. Looking online also would let you expand your search to dealerships outside your area. A used Mini Cooper can always be sent to you from another city or even another state.
Look into buying a used Mini Cooper from a private seller. This tactic might take more time but you could get a better price. Check the classified ads in all your local papers, as well as online ad sites.
