This question tend to creep up when cash is short, but the AR really isn't that much more expensive.
Take stripped Stag lower ($99 shipped)
Add kit. 16" kits run $460. Complete AR for $559. Pretty close to a lot of Mini-14's
http://jtdistributing.com/store/car_kits.html
http://www.model1sales.com/
The Mini generally doesn't shoot as tight, have as many options and will retain more value should a ban ensue. The old assault weapons ban didn't effect any AR's you bought
before the ban......just those manufactured after. So...no time like the present if that is a concern of yours.