History of the Mini Cooper Cabrio
The Mini Cooper Cabrio made its debut in 2004 as a stylish British convertible based on a modern reinterpretation of the classic Mini.
The first generation (R52, years 2004–2008) offered petrol engines designated as W10 (base One version), W11 (more powerful Cooper S with supercharger), and W17 (naturally aspirated Cooper). The second generation (R57, from 2009 onward) introduced new petrol units developed jointly by BMW and the PSA group — the popular 1.6 “Prince” engines, available both in naturally aspirated (N12) and turbocharged (N14) versions. Of course, there’s also a third generation and the current fourth, but the cheapest available examples of generation three (F57) start at around €12,000, so we’re not considering those within the €10,000 budget. Among MINI convertibles, there’s also the two-seater Roadster, but that’s also a higher-budget option.
Continuing the Series: Convertibles Under €10,000
In the previous article, we looked at the Fiat 500C — a small Italian car that symbolizes urban lifestyle. This time, we turn to the Mini Cooper Cabrio, another characterful car that’s also available within a €10,000 budget (main article).
General Pricing Overview
Prices for used Mini Cabrios start at around €3,000. At this level, you’ll mostly find older first-gen models with mileage above 200,000 km, typically Mini One (90 hp) or Cooper (116 hp). A budget of €10,000 gives access to a broader selection of better-maintained and better-equipped examples.
Mini Cooper Cabrio
The standard Mini Cooper Cabrio is among the most common versions. About half of all listings are base models: 116 hp in the first gen, or 122 hp in the second. The second-gen models feature Prince engines co-developed by BMW and PSA, offering great driving dynamics but sometimes higher maintenance costs at high mileage. I must mention here that I had the opportunity to drive the 122 hp version in the standard (non-Cabrio) body style shortly after its market debut. The combination of this engine with the car’s light weight gave an incredibly fun driving experience. Even today, I remember how impressed I was by the car’s handling. Paired with the 6-speed manual, it kept a constant smile on my face.
Mini Cooper S Cabrio
The Cooper S Cabrio is a tempting option due to its power and performance. The first generation, with its sturdy Chrysler engines, is especially appealing — 0–100 km/h in around 7.5 seconds and generally lower failure rates. The second generation is harder to find in good condition and may bring higher maintenance costs due to more advanced technology. If well-maintained, though, its main difference is fuel consumption — the first gen’s supercharger is always active and thirsty, while the second gen’s turbo allows for more fuel-efficient cruising. But don’t expect frugality from the first-gen Cooper S.
Mini One Cabrio
Mini One Cabrio appears less frequently in this price range, but the units you’ll find are typically newer and have lower mileage. Occasionally, you might find an early third-generation model (e.g., from 2017, 102 hp). However, performance is modest and more suited for city cruising. That may not align with the expectations of convertible enthusiasts — although for relaxed country drives, it might be enough.
Mini Cooper D Cabrio
The diesel variant is rare within this budget and typically limited to second-generation models. Finding a well-kept example may take time, due to limited availability.
Mini Cooper SD Cabrio
This sportier diesel version is even harder to come by. Most listings have high mileage, and potential buyers should weigh the risk of costly repairs. As with the regular D, one must also consider the diesel engine’s refinement — or lack thereof — in a convertible body.
Mini John Cooper Works Cabrio
The top-of-the-line, high-performance version with over 200 hp and a 0–100 km/h time under 7 seconds. Within a €10,000 budget, most examples are heavily used, increasing the likelihood of expensive issues. Realistically, better examples start at around €13,000, and buyers should be cautious unless they can stretch their budget.
Chili & Pepper Packs
Used Mini Coopers around €10,000 often feature the Chili or Pepper packages — optional equipment packs that offer a major upgrade in style and comfort over the base versions. Chili Pack leans sporty: sport seats, automatic A/C, upgraded wheels, ambient lighting, and dynamic trim. Pepper Pack emphasizes comfort: more elegant interior finishes, cruise control, LED lights, and enhanced media functionality. Choosing a model with one of these packs is a great way to enjoy a fully equipped Mini at a reasonable price.
Common Problems with the Mini Cabrio
Roof Mechanism
Issues: Malfunctioning mechanism, squeaking during opening/closing, leaks due to poor sealing.
Solutions & Costs:
Mechanism adjustment: €70–100
Actuator replacement: €220–550
Full roof replacement: up to €1,800
Engine & Timing Chain
Issue: The timing chain may stretch, potentially leading to severe engine failure — especially in 1.6 Prince petrol engines (second generation R57, 2008–2015).
Solutions & Costs:
Chain replacement: €500–800
Tensioner repair or replacement: €200–400
Gearbox
Issue: Premature wear in 5-speed Midland gearboxes in models up to 2004.
Solutions & Costs:
Oil change every 60,000 km: €70–130
Gearbox repair: €1,100–1,600
Electrical System
Issues: Comfort module failure, central locking issues, ABS sensor faults, battery drain.
Solutions & Costs:
Comfort module repair: €220–550
ABS sensor replacement: €70–180
Central locking fix: €110–330
Steering & Suspension
Issue: Power steering pump wear, often audible when turning at low speed.
Solution & Cost:
Pump replacement: €350–650
Rust
Issue: Corrosion on body panel edges, especially sills and door bottoms.
Solution & Cost:
Body & paintwork repair: €200–800
Oil Consumption
Issue: Some 1.6 petrol units (Prince N12/N14) have high oil consumption.
Solutions & Costs:
Regular top-ups: minimal cost
Major engine repair: €1,000–2,500
The Summary
With a €10,000 budget, your best bets are well-maintained, naturally aspirated second-gen Coopers — or older, more fuel-thirsty but adrenaline-filled first-gen Cooper S models. Reaching for a second-gen Cooper S is tempting, but comes with greater mechanical risk. Turbocharged cars are more likely to have been driven aggressively and may already be hiding wear beneath the surface — something to consider when shopping in this price range.
Available Versions and Specifications
| Model | Start Year | End Year | Fuel | Power (Engine / HP) | Top Speed (km/h) | 0-100 km/h (s) | Torque (Nm) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mini One Cabrio (R52) | 2004 | 2008 | Petrol | 1.6 / 90 | 175 | 11.8 | 140 |
| Mini One D Cabrio (R57) | 2010 | 2011 | Diesel | 1.6 / 90 | 175 | 11.5 | 215 |
| Mini One Cabrio (R57) | 2009 | 2010 | Petrol | 1.6 / 98 | 175 | 11.3 | 153 |
| Mini Cooper Cabrio (R52) | 2004 | 2008 | Petrol | 1.6 / 116 | 193 | 9.8 | 149 |
| Mini Cooper Cabrio (R57) | 2009 | 2010 | Petrol | 1.6 / 120 | 198 | 9.8 | 160 |
| Mini Cooper D Cabrio (R57) | 2010 | 2011 | Diesel | 1.6 / 112 | 197 | 9.7 | 270 |
| Mini Cooper SD Cabrio (R57) | 2011 | 2015 | Diesel | 2.0 / 143 | 215 | 8.1 | 305 |
| Mini Cooper S Cabrio (R52) | 2004 | 2008 | Petrol | 1.6 / 170 | 215 | 7.4 | 220 |
| Mini Cooper S Cabrio (R57) | 2009 | 2010 | Petrol | 1.6 / 175 | 222 | 7.4 | 240 |
| Mini John Cooper Works Cabrio (R57) | 2009 | 2010 | Petrol | 1.6 / 211 | 235 | 6.9 | 280 |
