R53 MINI Cooper S - Experiences

Well,

My names Ian and I've been a long time lurker, but a first time poster as they say. I recognise a few names from Backroads.ie

So as the title suggests I am looking at the R53 Cooper S. I originally wanted a classic (style) Mini (1990-1996, SPi) but then reconsidered because I do a lot of motorway miles and didn't want to out it through the pain of that and, of course, insurance is a d*ck so twas no go.

Though surprisingly, I am actually getting quotes for the R53 so I have decided to take my search to the next step. Anyone have any experience with them? I have read the Pistonheads buying guide and it is very helpful, as usual. Bearing in mind, I'm only 21 so finding insurance on anything is a chore

Some alternatives I have considered are:

Clio RS - Insurance companies HATE them

Megane RS - Very few found, especially within my budget

Golf GTi - Again, very few found within my budget and Golfs are EVERYWHERE. I suppose Coopers are too but still...

Astra OPC - Cool but slightly meh. They don't appeal to me as much as they used to. They also torque steer t'f**k apparently

My budget is around €4000. Am I mad? Fellow BMWHausers, please do educate me

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