What problems to look for in buying old mini, beater?

[Panchoz3]

What problems to look for in buying old mini, beater?

Looking to buy old mini for short money. Likely be high mileage (+150K).
Basic criteria: 30+ MPG and air conditioning, that's it.
Purpose: A commuter vehicle for about 500 miles per week. All highway driving--no stop n go city driving. Daily of 120 miles.
Why mini: Want beater with panache, and stay with German.

What are some areas that I should check for problems--mechanical, electrical, etc. ?
General info is helpful, but am also looking for mini specific info Re. problem areas.

Thanks.

[RRSperry]

Not German, it's British. It wouldn't be on my short list for the duty you have in mind.

[noodlesandsam]

Sounds like you are looking at older r50 ( cooper ) or maybe an r53 ( cooper S ).

My own list:

Windshield cracks on older cars, front suspension bushings, ball joints, ( some require the subframe to be dropped for replacement )

Oil pan gasket leaks ( 6+ hours of labor ).

We have 85k on a 2005 S automatic, and it gets 29 highway, and it is not driven lightly.

[e24mpwr]

Describe "short money"?

[SkiFree]

Mushrooming front shock towers.

[noodlesandsam]

Good point. What do you want to spend, and what is your yearly maintainance budget. This is not a Honda civic. You should go to the northamericanmotoring site, and see their r50/r53 faqs

[Crajelry]

Yes you the storyteller

[e24mpwr]

I'd consider this one:

http://www.minioflouisville.com/VehicleDetails/used-2005-MINI-Cooper_Hardtop--Louisville-KY/1808154323

[Smesealm]

I am sorry, this variant does not approach me. Who else, what can prompt?