The 2007 Mini Cooper ushered in the second generation of the BMW-era Mini (R56), retaining its iconic compact hatchback body style. Produced from 2007 to 2013, key trims included the base Cooper and the sportier Cooper S. New prices ranged roughly from $18,000 to $23,000. It stands out for its "go-kart" handling, distinctive retro-modern design, and premium feel, making it incredibly popular among enthusiasts seeking a fun, stylish urban car.
The Good
Its chief advantage is exhilarating "go-kart" performance and incredibly agile handling, appealing to emotional drivers. The distinctive, charismatic design also sets it apart. Practical buyers appreciate its surprisingly efficient fuel economy, especially the base model, and compact size ideal for city driving and parking. Despite its small footprint, the interior feels more spacious than expected for passengers.
The Bad
Known weaknesses for the 2007 Mini Cooper, especially the Cooper S (N14 engine), include significant issues with timing chains, high-pressure fuel pumps, and carbon buildup. Other concerns are a firm ride, limited cargo space, potential electrical gremlins, and higher maintenance costs compared to rivals. Premium fuel is required for the Cooper S.
2007 Mini Cooper: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
- Base Cooper: 1.6-liter naturally aspirated inline-4 (N12 engine)
- Cooper S: 1.6-liter turbocharged inline-4 (N14 engine) - Horsepower:
- Base Cooper: 118 hp at 6,000 rpm
- Cooper S: 172 hp at 5,500 rpm - Torque:
- Base Cooper: 114 lb-ft at 4,250 rpm
- Cooper S: 177 lb-ft at 1,600-5,000 rpm (with overboost to 192 lb-ft temporarily) - Fuel Economy (EPA estimates):
- Base Cooper (manual/automatic): Approx. 28/37 mpg city/highway (manual), 26/34 mpg city/highway (automatic)
- Cooper S (manual/automatic): Approx. 26/34 mpg city/highway (manual), 24/32 mpg city/highway (automatic). Premium fuel recommended for all models, required for Cooper S. - 0-60 mph Acceleration:
- Base Cooper: Approximately 8.5-9.1 seconds
- Cooper S: Approximately 6.7-7.1 seconds - Towing Capacity:
- Not officially rated or recommended for towing in the U.S. market. - Trim-Level Features:
- Mini Cooper (Base): Standard features included 15-inch alloy wheels, manual air conditioning, power windows and mirrors, remote central locking, a CD stereo system with an auxiliary input jack, tilt/telescoping steering wheel, and six airbags. Optional features encompassed a panoramic sunroof, sport seats, automatic climate control, Xenon headlights, heated front seats, and a premium audio system.
- Mini Cooper S: Builds upon the base model with significant performance upgrades and distinctive styling cues. It adds a more powerful turbocharged engine, a sport-tuned suspension, 16-inch alloy wheels, dual chrome exhaust tips, unique front and rear bumpers, a hood scoop for intercooler air intake, sport seats, and enhanced interior trim. Optional extras for the S included 17-inch wheels, a navigation system, Bluetooth connectivity, a Harman Kardon sound system, Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), and various cosmetic customization options like contrasting roof colors and racing stripes.
2007 Mini Cooper Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2007 |
| Make | Mini |
| Model | Cooper |
| Trim | - |
| Style | 2-Door Coupe |
| Type | Coupe |
| Category | Minicompact Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United Kingdom |
| Manufacturing City | OXFORD |
Dimensions
| Doors | 2-Door |
| Curb Weight | 1154.85 kg |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | 1524.98 kg |
| Overall Height | 140.72 cm |
| Overall Length | 369.82 cm |
| Overall Width | 168.4 cm |
| Wheelbase Length | 246.63 cm |
| Standard Seating | 4 |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | Gasoline 4-Cyl 1.6L/97.5 |
| Engine Size | 1.6L |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 |
| Transmission | Manual |
| Transmission Type | Manual |
| Transmission Speeds | - |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | 4-Wheel ABS |
| Steering Type | Rack & Pinion |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $21,950 USD |
| Invoice Price | $19,837 USD |
| Delivery Charges | $650 USD |
Vehicle History Report
Vehicle
Specifications
Specifications
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History
All History
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Theft
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Past Sale
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Listings
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Recalls
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Market Price
Analysis
Analysis
What Problems Does the 2007 Mini Cooper Have?
The 2007 Mini Cooper, particularly the Cooper S with its N14 turbocharged engine, is notorious for several frequently reported and costly problems. The most significant concern is the timing chain tensioner, which can fail, leading to timing chain rattle, catastrophic engine damage, and even complete engine failure if not addressed promptly. This issue often surfaces around 60,000-100,000 miles. Another widespread problem is the High-Pressure Fuel Pump (HPFP) failure, resulting in poor acceleration, misfires, and difficulty starting, a common complaint with direct-injection engines of this era.
Excessive carbon buildup on the intake valves is also prevalent due to the direct injection design, requiring regular walnut blasting for cleaning to maintain performance and fuel economy. Owners also report significant oil consumption, requiring frequent top-ups.
Beyond engine specifics, other long-term reliability concerns include electrical gremlins affecting power windows, door locks, and infotainment systems. Coolant leaks are common from the thermostat housing and water pump. Clutch wear can be accelerated in manual transmission models, and the automatic transmission 's longevity isn't always robust. The power steering pump, while more problematic in the earlier R53 generation, can still be a point of failure.
While there weren't massive recalls directly addressing these N14 engine issues for all 2007 models, some were subject to service campaigns or extended warranties for specific components like the HPFP. Prospective buyers must be aware that the N14 engine requires diligent and often expensive maintenance to avoid these common pitfalls. The base Cooper (N12 engine) generally exhibits better long-term reliability, though it's not entirely immune to typical European car maintenance demands.
Excessive carbon buildup on the intake valves is also prevalent due to the direct injection design, requiring regular walnut blasting for cleaning to maintain performance and fuel economy. Owners also report significant oil consumption, requiring frequent top-ups.
Beyond engine specifics, other long-term reliability concerns include electrical gremlins affecting power windows, door locks, and infotainment systems. Coolant leaks are common from the thermostat housing and water pump. Clutch wear can be accelerated in manual transmission models, and the automatic transmission 's longevity isn't always robust. The power steering pump, while more problematic in the earlier R53 generation, can still be a point of failure.
While there weren't massive recalls directly addressing these N14 engine issues for all 2007 models, some were subject to service campaigns or extended warranties for specific components like the HPFP. Prospective buyers must be aware that the N14 engine requires diligent and often expensive maintenance to avoid these common pitfalls. The base Cooper (N12 engine) generally exhibits better long-term reliability, though it's not entirely immune to typical European car maintenance demands.
How long will the 2007 Mini Cooper last?
With meticulous maintenance and proactive repair, a 2007 Mini Cooper can achieve 150,000 to 200,000 miles or more. However, this largely depends on the engine and owner commitment. The base Cooper (N12 engine) tends to be more durable long-term. The Cooper S (N14 engine) often faces major engine repairs before or around 100,000 miles if timing chain, HPFP, or carbon buildup issues are neglected.
Long-term weaknesses include the aforementioned N14 engine problems, suspension component wear (bushings, control arms), electrical system glitches, and cooling system leaks (thermostat housing, water pump). Interior plastics and trim can also show wear over time. Proactive fluid changes and addressing minor issues prevent them from becoming costly major failures, making maintenance habits the primary determinant of service life.
Long-term weaknesses include the aforementioned N14 engine problems, suspension component wear (bushings, control arms), electrical system glitches, and cooling system leaks (thermostat housing, water pump). Interior plastics and trim can also show wear over time. Proactive fluid changes and addressing minor issues prevent them from becoming costly major failures, making maintenance habits the primary determinant of service life.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 2007 Mini Cooper offered a blend of standard and optional features, emphasizing a premium feel rather than cutting-edge technology.
Built-in Tech & Entertainment: Standard equipment included a basic AM/FM radio with a CD player and an auxiliary input jack, allowing connection of external music devices. Optional upgrades significantly enhanced the experience, such as a premium Harman Kardon sound system for superior audio quality. A unique, centrally mounted navigation system, often controlled via a joystick, was available, integrated into the iconic large central speedometer. Optional Bluetooth connectivity provided hands-free phone operation. A trip computer with basic vehicle information was standard.
Driver-Assistance Features: In 2007, driver-assistance technology was far less pervasive than today. The Mini Cooper offered fundamental aids like Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), and Cornering Brake Control (CBC). Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), a more advanced traction and stability system, was an important optional safety upgrade, helping to maintain control in challenging driving conditions. Features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, or blind-spot monitoring were not available.
Safety Features: Standard safety equipment was comprehensive for its time, including six airbags: dual front airbags, front side airbags, and side curtain airbags that covered both front and rear occupants. Other standard features included seatbelt pretensioners and a tire pressure monitoring system.
Crash-Test Ratings: The 2007 Mini Cooper performed well in independent crash tests. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) gave the R56 Mini Cooper 'Good' ratings (the highest score) in its frontal offset and side-impact crash tests (when equipped with optional side airbags). It also received a 'Good' rating for roof strength. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) provided ratings of four out of five stars for frontal crash protection (driver and passenger) and five out of five stars for side-impact protection (front and rear passengers), indicating a strong safety cell for occupants.
Built-in Tech & Entertainment: Standard equipment included a basic AM/FM radio with a CD player and an auxiliary input jack, allowing connection of external music devices. Optional upgrades significantly enhanced the experience, such as a premium Harman Kardon sound system for superior audio quality. A unique, centrally mounted navigation system, often controlled via a joystick, was available, integrated into the iconic large central speedometer. Optional Bluetooth connectivity provided hands-free phone operation. A trip computer with basic vehicle information was standard.
Driver-Assistance Features: In 2007, driver-assistance technology was far less pervasive than today. The Mini Cooper offered fundamental aids like Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), and Cornering Brake Control (CBC). Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), a more advanced traction and stability system, was an important optional safety upgrade, helping to maintain control in challenging driving conditions. Features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, or blind-spot monitoring were not available.
Safety Features: Standard safety equipment was comprehensive for its time, including six airbags: dual front airbags, front side airbags, and side curtain airbags that covered both front and rear occupants. Other standard features included seatbelt pretensioners and a tire pressure monitoring system.
Crash-Test Ratings: The 2007 Mini Cooper performed well in independent crash tests. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) gave the R56 Mini Cooper 'Good' ratings (the highest score) in its frontal offset and side-impact crash tests (when equipped with optional side airbags). It also received a 'Good' rating for roof strength. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) provided ratings of four out of five stars for frontal crash protection (driver and passenger) and five out of five stars for side-impact protection (front and rear passengers), indicating a strong safety cell for occupants.
What Colors Options are Available?
We’re working on this section!
In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
2007 Mini Cooper Prices and Market Value
When new in 2007, the base Mini Cooper started around $18,000-$20,000, while the sportier Cooper S typically began at $21,000-$23,000, with options quickly pushing prices higher. Today, in the used market (2024), prices for a 2007 Mini Cooper vary widely, generally ranging from $3,000 to $8,000, depending heavily on condition, mileage, trim, and most importantly, maintenance history.
Initially, like most cars, the Mini Cooper experienced significant depreciation. However, its iconic design and unique driving experience have helped it retain better value than many competitors over the long term. Factors positively affecting resale value include a clean title, comprehensive service records (especially for the Cooper S to prove engine health), lower mileage, desirable optional features (like navigation or premium audio), and excellent cosmetic condition. Conversely, neglected maintenance, particularly for the N14 engine, drastically reduces value due to anticipated expensive repairs.
Initially, like most cars, the Mini Cooper experienced significant depreciation. However, its iconic design and unique driving experience have helped it retain better value than many competitors over the long term. Factors positively affecting resale value include a clean title, comprehensive service records (especially for the Cooper S to prove engine health), lower mileage, desirable optional features (like navigation or premium audio), and excellent cosmetic condition. Conversely, neglected maintenance, particularly for the N14 engine, drastically reduces value due to anticipated expensive repairs.
2007 Mini Cooper Cost of Ownership
Owning a 2007 Mini Cooper can be a mixed bag financially. Insurance costs can be moderate to high, especially for the Cooper S, due to its sporty nature. The Cooper S requires premium unleaded fuel, while the base Cooper runs on regular, impacting fuel expenses.
Maintenance and repair costs can be significantly higher than average for its class. Parts are often more expensive, reflecting its BMW lineage, and labor can be costly due to specialized knowledge required. The notorious N14 engine issues (timing chain, HPFP) in the Cooper S often lead to expensive, unexpected repairs.
Overall, a base 2007 Cooper can be moderately economical, but the 2007 Cooper S is generally considered costly to own, particularly if a comprehensive service history is lacking, due to its propensity for major engine problems.
Maintenance and repair costs can be significantly higher than average for its class. Parts are often more expensive, reflecting its BMW lineage, and labor can be costly due to specialized knowledge required. The notorious N14 engine issues (timing chain, HPFP) in the Cooper S often lead to expensive, unexpected repairs.
Overall, a base 2007 Cooper can be moderately economical, but the 2007 Cooper S is generally considered costly to own, particularly if a comprehensive service history is lacking, due to its propensity for major engine problems.
2007 Mini Cooper Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
40.13 liters
City Mileage
13.61 km/l
Highway Mileage
17.01 km/l
2007 Mini Cooper Safety Rating
NHTSA
IIHS
2007 Mini Cooper Recalls & Defects
Engine and Engine Cooling:exhaust System:manifold/Header/Muffler/tail Pipe
Recall date
2008-12-12
Recall no.
08v657000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
BMW IS Recalling 28,450 MY 2007-2008 Mini Cooper S Vehicles. THE Centrally Located Tailpipe Extension Protrudes Slightly Beyond THE Rear Bumper. IT IS Possible FOR Inadvertent Contact TO Occur With A Person's Leg.
Consequence
IF THE Tailpipe Extension IS HOT During Inadvertent Contact, A Burn Could Occur.
Remedy
Dealers Will Replace THE Tailpipe With A NEW Shorter Tailpipe Free OF Charge. THE Recall IS Expected TO Begin During January 2009. Owners MAY Contact BMW AT 1-866-275-6464.
Notes
Customers MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Engine and Engine Cooling:engine:gasoline:turbo/Supercharger
Recall date
2012-01-11
Recall no.
12v008000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
BMW IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2007-2011 Mini Cooper S, 2008-2011 Mini Cooper S Clubman, 2009-2011 Mini Cooper S Convertible, 2009-2011 Mini Cooper Jcw, 2009-2011 Mini Cooper JCW Clubman, 2009-2011 Cooper JCW Convertible, and 2011 Cooper S Countryman Passenger Cars Manufactured From November 14, 2006, Through January 18, 2011. THE Electric Auxiliary Water Pump That Cools THE Turbocharger HAS AN Electronic Circuit Board That CAN Malfunction and Overheat.
Consequence
THE Circuit Board MAY Smolder Which Could Result IN A Vehicle Fire.
Remedy
BMW Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Water Pump Free OF Charge. THE Safety Recall Beganduring February 2012. Owners MAY Contact BMW AT 1-866-275-6464.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Engine and Engine Cooling:engine
Recall date
2018-04-18
Recall no.
18v248000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
BMW OF North America, LLC (Bmw) IS Recalling Certain 2011-2012 BMW 550i, 550i Xdrive, 550i Gran Turismo, 550i Gran Turismo Xdrive, 750i, 750li, 750i Xdrive, 750li Xdrive, 760li, X5 Xdrive50i, X5 M, X6 Xdrive50i, X6 M, Activehybrid7, Mini Cooper S Convertible, John Cooper Works (Jcw) Convertible, Cooper S Countryman, Cooper S Countryman All4, Cooper S, Jcw, Cooper S Clubman, JCW Clubman, Cooper S Roadster, JCW Roadster, Cooper S Coupe, JCW Coupe and Rolls-Royce Ghost, 2011 BMW X6 Hybrid and 2012 BMW 650i Coupe, 650i Xdrive Coupe, 650i Convertible and 650i Xdrive Convertible Vehicles. THE Electric Auxiliary Water Pump MAY Fail and Cause THE Circuit Board TO Overheat.
Consequence
IF THE Circuit Board Were TO Overheat, IT CAN Increase THE Risk OF A Fire.
Remedy
BMW Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Electric Auxiliary Water Pump, Free OF Charge. Depending ON THE Model, There ARE Currently Limited Parts Available, However NOT All Parts ARE Available AT This Time. Owners Will BE Notified OF THE Recall Beginning June 11, 2018, and Will Receive A Second Notification When Remedy Parts Become Available. Owners MAY Contact BMW Customer Service AT BMW 1-800-525-7417, Mini AT 1-866-825-1525, or Rolls-royce AT 1-877-877-3735. Note: BMW Recommends That Owners Park Their Vehicle Outdoors Until THE Recall Remedy HAS Been Performed.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Engine and Engine Cooling:engine:gasoline:turbo/Supercharger
Recall date
2018-04-18
Recall no.
18v248000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
BMW OF North America, LLC (Bmw) IS Recalling Certain 2011-2012 BMW 550i, 550i Xdrive, 550i Gran Turismo, 550i Gran Turismo Xdrive, 750i, 750li, 750i Xdrive, 750li Xdrive, 760li, X5 Xdrive50i, X5 M, X6 Xdrive50i, X6 M, Activehybrid7, Mini Cooper S Convertible, John Cooper Works (Jcw) Convertible, Cooper S Countryman, Cooper S Countryman All4, Cooper S, Jcw, Cooper S Clubman, JCW Clubman, Cooper S Roadster, JCW Roadster, Cooper S Coupe, JCW Coupe and Rolls-Royce Ghost, 2011 BMW X6 Hybrid and 2012 BMW 650i Coupe, 650i Xdrive Coupe, 650i Convertible and 650i Xdrive Convertible Vehicles. THE Electric Auxiliary Water Pump MAY Fail and Cause THE Circuit Board TO Overheat.
Consequence
IF THE Circuit Board Were TO Overheat, IT CAN Increase THE Risk OF A Fire.
Remedy
BMW Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Electric Auxiliary Water Pump, Free OF Charge. Depending ON THE Model, There ARE Currently Limited Parts Available, However NOT All Parts ARE Available AT This Time. Owners Will BE Notified OF THE Recall Beginning June 11, 2018, and Will Receive A Second Notification When Remedy Parts Become Available. Owners MAY Contact BMW Customer Service AT BMW 1-800-525-7417, Mini AT 1-866-825-1525, or Rolls-royce AT 1-877-877-3735. Note: BMW Recommends That Owners Park Their Vehicle Outdoors Until THE Recall Remedy HAS Been Performed.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Electrical System
Recall date
2023-05-11
Recall no.
23v337000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
BMW OF North America, LLC (Bmw) IS Recalling Certain 2008-2014 Mini Clubman Cooper, Clubman Cooper S, Clubman John Cooper Works, and 2007-2013 Mini Hardtop 2-door Cooper, Cooper S, and John Cooper Works Vehicles Sold, or Ever Registered, IN Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, NEW Hampshire, NEW Jersey, NEW York, North Dakota, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, Washington D.c., and Wisconsin. THE Electronic Control Module IN THE Driver's Side Footwell Area MAY Short-circuit, DUE TO Corrosion From Water and Road Salt.
Consequence
AN Electrical Short-Circuit CAN Increase THE Risk OF A Fire.
Remedy
Dealers Will Inspect THE Sunroof Drains, Interior Footwell Area, and FRM And, Depending Upon THE Results OF THE Inspection, Certain Components Will BE Replaced. Owner Notification Letters Were Mailed MAY 13, 2024. Owners MAY Contact BMW Customer Service AT 1-866-825-1525.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.nhtsa.gov.
2007 Mini Cooper Warranty
Basic
Original warranty
48 months / 50,000 miles
Estimated remaining
Expired
Powertrain
Original warranty
48 months / 50,000 miles
Estimated remaining
Expired
Rust
Original warranty
144 months / unlimited miles
Estimated remaining
Expired
2007 Mini Cooper Insurance
Insurance for a 2007 Mini Cooper is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Coupe with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2007 Mini Cooper Compare to Other Coupe?
When comparing the 2007 Mini Cooper to key rivals like the Honda Civic Si, Volkswagen GTI, and Mazda 3, distinct strengths and weaknesses emerge.
Performance: The Mini Cooper S truly shines here. Its "go-kart" handling is legendary, offering a more visceral and agile driving experience than most rivals. The Civic Si, with its high-revving naturally aspirated engine, offers thrilling acceleration but a different character. The GTI (Mk5 generation) boasts a refined, powerful 2.0T engine and a more comfortable ride, making it a strong all-rounder. The Mazda 3 is capable but generally less sporty than the Mini S or Civic Si in base forms.
Features: Mini offers extensive customization and a unique interior aesthetic that rivals struggle to match. However, standard tech in the base Cooper can be somewhat basic compared to a similarly priced Mazda 3 or Civic, which often packed more features. The GTI typically offered a more upscale interior feel and strong feature set for its class. Mini's premium options could push its price significantly higher than Japanese competitors.
Reliability: This is the Mini Cooper's Achilles' heel, particularly for the Cooper S with its N14 engine. The timing chain, HPFP, and carbon buildup issues plague this model year, making it significantly less reliable and more costly to maintain than a Honda Civic Si or Mazda 3, which are often praised for their bulletproof dependability. While the GTI's 2.0T engine also had its share of issues (cam follower, PCV valve), the N14 Mini S problems were arguably more widespread and severe. The base Cooper (N12 engine) is more reliable but still requires diligent maintenance.
Price: New, their prices were competitive. Used, a 2007 Mini Cooper, especially the S, might appear to be a bargain. However, potential repair costs for the N14 engine can quickly negate any initial savings, making it a riskier purchase than its rivals.
Alternatives:
Performance: The Mini Cooper S truly shines here. Its "go-kart" handling is legendary, offering a more visceral and agile driving experience than most rivals. The Civic Si, with its high-revving naturally aspirated engine, offers thrilling acceleration but a different character. The GTI (Mk5 generation) boasts a refined, powerful 2.0T engine and a more comfortable ride, making it a strong all-rounder. The Mazda 3 is capable but generally less sporty than the Mini S or Civic Si in base forms.
Features: Mini offers extensive customization and a unique interior aesthetic that rivals struggle to match. However, standard tech in the base Cooper can be somewhat basic compared to a similarly priced Mazda 3 or Civic, which often packed more features. The GTI typically offered a more upscale interior feel and strong feature set for its class. Mini's premium options could push its price significantly higher than Japanese competitors.
Reliability: This is the Mini Cooper's Achilles' heel, particularly for the Cooper S with its N14 engine. The timing chain, HPFP, and carbon buildup issues plague this model year, making it significantly less reliable and more costly to maintain than a Honda Civic Si or Mazda 3, which are often praised for their bulletproof dependability. While the GTI's 2.0T engine also had its share of issues (cam follower, PCV valve), the N14 Mini S problems were arguably more widespread and severe. The base Cooper (N12 engine) is more reliable but still requires diligent maintenance.
Price: New, their prices were competitive. Used, a 2007 Mini Cooper, especially the S, might appear to be a bargain. However, potential repair costs for the N14 engine can quickly negate any initial savings, making it a riskier purchase than its rivals.
Alternatives:
- For superior long-term reliability and engaging, high-revving performance, the Honda Civic Si is a strong contender.
- For a blend of performance, practicality, and better reliability than the Mini S, the Volkswagen GTI (Mk5) is an excellent choice.
- If absolute reliability and fun-to-drive dynamics are paramount, a Mazda 3 (especially a MazdaSpeed 3 for performance) offers a compelling package, though perhaps less "character" than the Mini.
Final Verdict: Is the 2007 Mini Cooper a Good Coupe?
The 2007 Mini Cooper is ideal for enthusiasts who prioritize a unique, stylish design, nimble "go-kart" handling, and a fun, engaging driving experience over absolute reliability or spacious practicality. It's perfect for city dwellers seeking a charismatic compact car.
Is it worth buying? Yes, but with significant caveats, especially for the Cooper S. If buying used, a comprehensive pre-purchase inspection (PPI) by a Mini specialist is non-negotiable. Strong preference should be given to models with meticulous service records.
For better long-term reliability and lower ownership costs, the base 2007 Mini Cooper (N12 engine) is a safer bet. The Cooper S (N14 engine) can be a rewarding, performance-oriented buy, but only for those prepared for potentially expensive and frequent maintenance, or for individuals with the mechanical aptitude to tackle known issues themselves. It's not a "buy it and forget it" car.
Is it worth buying? Yes, but with significant caveats, especially for the Cooper S. If buying used, a comprehensive pre-purchase inspection (PPI) by a Mini specialist is non-negotiable. Strong preference should be given to models with meticulous service records.
For better long-term reliability and lower ownership costs, the base 2007 Mini Cooper (N12 engine) is a safer bet. The Cooper S (N14 engine) can be a rewarding, performance-oriented buy, but only for those prepared for potentially expensive and frequent maintenance, or for individuals with the mechanical aptitude to tackle known issues themselves. It's not a "buy it and forget it" car.
Cathleen V
Cathleen is an exceptional freelance writer covering hot topics in the automotive world from a gearhead's perspective. Her articles delve into various aspects of automotive technology and history, offering readers detailed insights into engine performance, reliability, and maintenance. Through her engaging and informative writing, Cathleen provides valuable information to automotive enthusiasts and consumers alike, helping them make informed decisions about vehicle maintenance and purchases.