I am in the market for a mid to late 90s mini. JDM, manual (wife wants auto), AC (another wife requirement), left side preferred but right will work too. I have been on FB groups looking and someone told me to get in touch with my local mini group so I can get more familiar with them before I buy one. I have never driven or ridden in one and of course never owned one. But for the past 5+ years I have been enamoured with the styling and uniqueness. My wife promised me she would get me one for my 50th birthday which isn't that far away. So my question is, would I be able to stop by at a meet, check out some minis, and get some advice. I live in Winchester, VA so I am about an hour or so away. Maybe meet someone who is selling one locally that I can actually go see. Everything I have seen lately is a flight away.
Thank you,
Tom