Here it is, my shiny new Mini. Well, it’s not exactly new - it’s a June 2004 model, but it’s done just 15,000 miles (and just 5,000 of those with the Works kit) and is absolutely immaculate and drives like a brand new car

It’s just pre-facelift, so it’s got (in my view) the best combination of the pre- and post-facelift specification - it’s still got a roof clock, but has the updated onboard computer, etc.

Specification:

• Mini Cooper S with John Cooper Works Tuning Kit, 210 bhp
• Liquid Yellow, black roof and mirrors
• Chili Pack - usual Cooper S goodies of air con, half leather, three spoke steering wheel, Xenon headlights, etc
• 17″ S-spoke alloys - to be replaced by my R99s, probably refurbished in black or anthracite
• Works front brakes
• Multifunction Steering Wheel
• BOOST Mini Disc player - to be replaced by 2005 BOOST CD Player
• 6 CD Changer - to be replaced by ice>Link Plus iPod kit
• Harman Kardon upgraded stereo system
• Clear rear light clusters - to be replaced by original red/orange clusters

Apart from the bits I’ve said will be replaced in the list above, I’ll probably also fit a facelift smooth chrome grille surround, and the under-dash storage tray. Longer term I might look at painting the dash in piano black (perhaps with yellow uprights) and acquiring a set of facelift xenon headlights.

But for now, I’m happy to drive it and enjoy the wailing supercharger