Used 2005 MINI Cooper Convertible for Sale near Los Angeles, CA

small, limited view when roof is up

The 2005 make year is arguably the most reliable year with the lowest maintenance. Car after 2006 cost more for maintenance because of the digital settings. Everyone who owns or has driven a MINI will understand the experience of other MINI drivers. It's not uncommon to get a little hand waive or honk by other MINI drivers when I'm on the road -- especially if two convertibles with their top down pass by each other.

You can find this first-generation Mini for low money now, but do your homework: the 5-speed manual in this model is notorious for falling about after 60K miles. I've also had problems with the electrical system. It's a very fun car, gas mileage is decent, but its not well-made it'll cost you a ton to keep it on the road.

Its a cool sexy little car which is fun to drive, and easy to park. You can really show off in the summer, it feels and looks great with the roof down!

I feel in love with this car at the motorshow... I needed something cute to replace my MX5.. I should have got the Cooper S, it was too heavy and too slow...