In my opinion I don't think the asking price is too exorbitant. That is if the car is genuine. A call to the owner and an inspection will give you an answer to that.

I've been tracking Cooper S sales over the last three to four years. My main methods being contacting sellers and recording sale prices.

Here is a price guide I've created based on my collection of sales data:

Below 10k - Non-runner in need of restoration.
10-15k - Average to good condition, may be missing original parts, non-matching numbers etc.
15k-20k - Good condition, matching numbers.
20-25k - Excellent condition, matching numbers.
25-30k - Immaculate to concours, matching numbers.
30k+ - Concours with the finest of details, matching numbers, original sales documents, service history etc.

Overall the trend is UP. The introduction and on-going popularity of the new MINI and the timeless appeal and "cool" factor of the original, as well as the promotion of its 50th year will only continue to drive the values up.

Now people might say, ..."but I saw a Cooper S for so and so dollars". There are always exceptions. You might get lucky, you might get ripped off. Others might say, ..."hey Red Book has them valued at $14000". This value is diluted by the many replicas sold... "Every Mini is a Cooper S" right?

Happy to hear feedback and comments.

As for the comment about prices continually going up, i'd take that with a grain of salt.

There is a limit to what people will pay, I could sell a cooper 's' easier 15yrs ago than if I were to sell one today. Like any investment luxury item, with the current economic climate, I think prices would taper off - or even drop slightly.

Im curious to know where you think this falls into your list?

Doogie

hey.... value mine -