2007/8 Mini - reliability?

[-Mike-]

Hey all,

I realise these are perhaps looked at a "not real" mini but am keen to find out reliability info on them? I'm specifically looking at either the Cooper or Cooper S with a preference to the S. It's been a long time since I've had a reasonable performance petrol car and my sister raves about how great her mini is so figured it'd be rude not to have a test drive of a few.

Any info/tips/advice gratefully received!

Thanks

 

[-Mike-]

Buy post 2008 minis are much better than 07s
Troublesome carbon build-up (this is down to girl drivers who dont open it up) being the main problem

My main concern was the timing chain issues that seem widely reported on the internet! Its either one of these which I think I'd prefer for the extra turbo torque or a swift sport.