A FOUR-month-old Mini Cooper S with 4,000 miles on the clock was sold at Manheim Auctions Bristol for 99.4% of its original cost new.

The silver 1.6-litre Mini had a selection of accessories including satellite navigation, leather upholstery and a full-length sliding glass sunroof.

It was one of 112 BMW models, including Z3 and X5, which went under the hammer. More than 80% of the cars were sold, averaging 103% of CAP Clean. BMW auction manager Jeremy Raggett said: 'We are aware of the Mini's appeal through its strong new car sales performance, but with the Cooper S nearly matching its cost new we see a matching appeal in the used car market.

'The sales results were very positive for us and the conversion rate is testament to the high standards of vehicle preparation that we apply.'