They really are fast little things, at least if feels like that because its small. I'm am, of course, talking about the Classic Mini, not the new BMW Big.
Running costs, can't comment. Thats my dads business, but as long as you look after it and stop any problems before they become too big, you'll be fine. Rust is the tricky one, but isn't it easily treatable?
Fuel, not all that bad in the one we have.
Fuel Type, we've got the 1.6 sport model. Its fun. Petrol.
Transmission is a manual 5 speed.
It is, of course FWD, but this car gets away with it. And its good fun.
Equipment, radio slot is one of them that you can just put a stereo from Halfords into. Ours has leather seats! And one of the window winders works without falling off!
Body style: Saloon will hold 4 people, I can fit in the back of a classic Mini behind where my dad sits. I'm 5' 7" and he is 6' 3" and its not too bad. I couldn't fit in the new MINI when I was 5' 2" at most. Like Dougie says, a clubman might be a good idea.
Age: You'll be looking at pre-2001, thats when the good Minis were stopped so yeah, like Dougie says, more than likely anything over 15 years old for your budget.
Umm, Minis are fun, good cars and are definitely more respectable and cool than a Proton.
And then when you gain a bit more money, shove a Hayabusa engine in it. Or knock the dash back a few inches and throw in a Rover V8.
Best advice was to get accidental damage cover. Then when your machine is outdated you "break" it and get a laptop of an equivelant price, which will be better a year on.