Here’s one we don’t cover often, a Mini Cooper S, specifically a 2008 “Sidewalk” edition. Having experienced only 65K miles, this clean supercharged drop top is claimed by the seller to be “the most desirable year”.  Hmmm, I wonder why? Let’s take a deep dive and see what makes this one so special. Cape Coral, Florida, is where you’ll find it, and it’s available here on eBay for a BIN price of $14,900 and comes with an extended warranty. There is a make an offer option too.

Since BMW acquired the Rover Group in 2000, they have offered a plethora of Mini models. Starting in 2005, a convertible was added to the lineup, and then in 2007 the $4,000 trim package known as the “Sidewalk “edition was made available for both the standard Cooper and the Cooper S. According to Car & Driver, Sidewalk components include, “unique, light-alloy wheels (16s base, 17s on Cooper Ss), English leather sport seats in a mandatory malt-brown color, and a steering wheel wrapped in ‘special Sidewalk sport leather’.” It seems like a huge expense for alloy wheels and a basketball hued upholstery, but that’s the way it rolled. The package was dropped after 2008 but then returned for the ’21 Model year. In this case, time has done no harm as the finish and trim are in excellent condition – this car has clearly been well cared for. The seller mentions that the folding top, however, has been replaced, but unfortunately, the exterior images are limited.

Power is provided by a 168 net HP, 1.6-liter, supercharged four-cylinder engine, driving the front wheels via a six-speed manual transaxle. The seller mentions that the clutch has been replaced and adds, “This mini is a blast to drive, 6sp a must, great gas mileage, fast and fun.” He also adds, “This mini has an active top-of-the-line warranty, very important to have…”  I’m down with that as my across-the-street neighbor has a 2008 Cooper S, and fortunately, he’s a very competent wrench. I don’t know how many times over the years I’ve seen that car with its front end removed and most of the top end of the engine scattered all over the driveway. He’s told me that one of the constant problems has to do with supercharger lubrication. As it is now, it has been sitting in his garage, inoperative, for at least a year. Just as observation…

That high-dollar interior looks great. It has been gently used and appears to have experienced limited top-down time, as there’s no indication of any obvious sun damage. Yes, this is a four-seater, but no, an adult won’t fit in the rear seat unless they, and they alone, sit sideways. (My daughter owned a 2006 Mini convertible, so I’ve had real-world back seat Mini experience – ouch!)

So, the most desirable year? Maybe, maybe not, but there’s no doubt about it, this Mini is in Maxi condition, and if it’s something that floats your boat, this is one to consider, wouldn’t you agree?