Answer
Aug 09, 2021 - 08:21 PM
Hi there
We're assuming that you're talking about a used Mini JCW here, because a new one is a lot more expensive than even a new Swift Sport (almost twice as much, in fact). But, while some used Mini JCWs may cost about the same as a new Swift Sport, they offer quite different characteristics.
In the Swift Sport Auto's price class (about R 370 000), you'll get a 2016 JCW with about 50 000 km, which represents good value for money at first glance. It's quicker and more powerful than the Suzuki, and offers similarly fun handling and cute looks. But there's a catch: at this age, there will be no warranty or maintenance plan left over on the Mini, which will make it a risky used-car buy if running costs are at all important.
See, because the Mini uses high-tech BMW hardware, it's bound to become a bit fragile as it ages, likely leading to plenty of costly parts replacements at BMW-dealership-level prices just to keep it in service. In addition, the Mini is notoriously difficult to work on, with very restricted access to mechanical parts due to the small engine bay and bulky hardware. So, unless you're prepared to wield spanners yourself, a used high-performance Mini may well turn out to be an expensive long-term affair.
In contrast, the Suzuki Swift Sport will have a fresh warranty and service plan, and even if it ages, it won't be too expensive to run. Suzuki parts are also quite expensive for their higher-performance cars, but because you'll start off with a new car, it should take longer before it starts needing those expensive parts. The Suzuki is also guaranteed to be cheaper to fuel and insure, so it starts off with many advantages over a used Mini JCW.
Sure, it's not a quick as the JCW, but it offers much the same driving fun in a much more-affordable package. For this reason, we'd suggest you rather make the new Swift Sport rather than a used JCW your first choice here. It's just a better all-round deal in the longer term. For even greater savings, you could get a lightly-used Swift Sport for even less money, and still benefit from the remaining warranty and service plan.
Hope this helps!
The AskAutoTrader Team
Add New Comment