2006 MINI COOPER S (R53) - 36,627 MILES

This 2006 Mini Cooper S is a smart example of the contemporary hot hatch, which boasts a great factory specification and low mileage from new. Under the bonnet is a supercharged 1.6-litre four-cylinder engine, which produces 168bhp and drives the front wheels via an engaging six-speed manual transmission. The odometer displays just 36,627 miles from new, which is borne out by the car’s service history.

First registered in November 2006, this R53-generation Mini Cooper S was acquired by the seller less than one year ago, and is now offered for sale following a full service.

There is no known prior accident damage, and no signs of corrosion to speak of. The vendor notes that the offside rear quarter panel appears to have been resprayed in the past, but the Astro Black Metallic paintwork has a smooth and glossy appearance around the whole car. In keeping with its road use, the exterior does feature some small blemishes, including stone chips, scratches and a small dent on the bonnet, while the ‘Mini’ emblem on the nose badge has been lost. This Cooper S rides on its original set of 17-inch five-spoke alloy wheels, which have some kerb grazes around the rims.

Inside, the cabin is trimmed in its original leather upholstery, and is in good shape. In the front, the heated Recaro seats feature black leather bolsters and headrests with grey leather centre sections. Both are in good order, and while there are some general signs of wear and creasing – particularly on the driver’s seat’s outer bolster – the upholstery is not torn or sagging. The rear seats also present well. Furthermore, all of the buttons and switches are very good order, and the car’s electrical items work without fault, with no warning lights displayed on the dashboard.

This modern Mini’s most recent routine maintenance was carried out in January 2021 at 36,524 miles by Rushmores of London. A full service, this included an engine oil and filter change, as well as replacement of the spark plugs, rear brake discs and pads, and brake fluid. Prior to this, the last two services were performed in November 2015 at 31,518 miles and in November 2014 at 29,066 miles. During the seller’s brief ownership, they have also fitted a new battery, and the subframes have been cleaned and painted to rectify some surface corrosion.

The car’s last MOT test was conducted on 20 January 2021 at 36,523 miles. This resulted in a first-time pass, with an advisory noting that there was surface corrosion to the vehicle’s underside. However, the seller is able to supply a letter from the testing station which states this is purely superficial, and the subframe has been cleaned and painted as mentioned above. All four tyres have more than 5mm of tread remaining and date to 2017.

The car will be supplied with its original book pack and service book, as well as the factory jack and tool kit, and a number of past service invoices.

Presented in smart overall condition and benefitting from a recent service, this low-mileage R53-generation Mini Cooper S is a sound example of the early 2000s hot hatch. While there are some minor blemishes to the paintwork, these could easily be improved if the next owner desires, and this peppy Mini is ready to be driven and enjoyed immediately.

The description of this auction lot is, to the best of the seller's knowledge, accurate and not misleading. Collecting Cars requests a range of detail about the lot from the seller, and performs a level of due diligence. However, bidders must satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description, and conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to a bid. Please see our Terms and Conditions for full details.

All UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Collecting Cars are run through an online HPI check. On the HPI report, this vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and has no finance owing.