Irish Mini Owners Club

Am I correct this is a Jap import SPI. Besides there being little to no room under the bonnet, is there anything else I need to be wary about? Can just about read "E12A AD020" on top of the engine.

Thanks for the feedback Buddy, I checked out the 97 the Friday before last. A lot of things were off with the mini. Was told one previous owner yet was only registered in 03, was an import from NI. Owner apparently did not know, but service book said otherwise. It didn't handle too well, and steerin...

Thanks Dave. Going to check out a few minis this week. I'll let ya's know how I get on.

Thanks, Evlabe (http://cars.donedeal.ie/for-sale/cars/4172962) Gave the chap a ring, it's actually a UK import, the engine was modified over in the UK. There is very little service history with the vehicle. There were 2 rust issues previously (scuttle pan and back left rear). Has been recently respr...

Is the 1380cc engine size a standard size or has it been modified?

Not sure about the Sparco seats,I kind of prefer the old traditional look.

Cheer Marcos. From experience is there a massive difference in the handling between 12" and 13"? Also, is there anyone on the forums here from Galway? I would really like to check out the 97 mini and it would be a massive help if there was someone with me who knows exactly what to look for...

Thanks Woody,

Would the 13" wheels on the 97 create steering issues, I assume full lock isn't possible?

What do people think of the below two options:

http://cars.donedeal.ie/for-sale/vintagecars/4412495

http://cars.donedeal.ie/for-sale/vintagecars/4452671

Subject to the usual checks for rust, test drive etc.....do you guys reckon the above represent value? Particularly like the look of the 97 mini.

First off, thanks for all the replies... I'm over 25 and the mini would be my daily driver. Budget is around €4k. Living in Dublin city centre, and while mechanically minded, I do not have a garage or an area where I can install / swap out parts regularly, if needed. So I'm slightly apprehensive abo...

I've finally done, saved a bit by to buy a my first old school mini! However I have one small issue, other than how they look, I don't know too much about what's under the hood or common issues, such as rust, that need to be spotted before any purchase is made. Does anyone have any advice around the...