Hi Everyone.

Just getting my 'intro' out of the way. Wandered over here looking for some info & discussion on Mini's as we're strongly considering a cooper S as a new car within the next month or so.

About me? Just the average guy. married, 2 kids (12 & 15), live in S.E. WI

I looked at Mini's a few years ago when they first came to the US, but pretty much discounted them and didn't look at them since. Well, we're in the market for a new car and the wife started looking at Mini's. We went and drove the Cooper S this last weekend and OH MY GOD... I don't know that I've ever been so impressed by a vehicle.

The last sporty vehicle I drove was a Honda S2000. That thing was great, but being 6'2", it required a lot of contortion to get into it. The mini was far more comfortable and actually felt faster and more stable.

My main purpose here is to see if there are any known problems or common complaints (like with all vehicles). Will be browsing the forums to see what anyone has to say...

Well, that's about it for me...

Cheers.

-Jeff

 

Hey Jeff, I have Cooper S "04". I have found in summer when you have the A.C. in operation it can be a dog on on the lower RPM's after a stop. Its somethingI have learned to live with. Many have made the mistake of buyingthe Cooper Sfor the power, but there are many more powerful cars out on the market.I think people that buy the cooper buy it because it is a complete package.If you buy one you will see heads turn as you pass and people asking questions when you stop. Good luck looking for your new car. --George

 

Thanks George.

Really I'm looking at it as a car both my wife (5'2") and I (6'2") can drive and enjoy. Previously she had a mercury cougar which I couldn't stand from the day she bought it as I kept hitting my head on the way in and out, and it was terrible for power and blind spots. It too had issues with power and the AC (and this was in the V6 model). So I'm sure the mini will have the same hit.

Looking for an overall fun and functional vehicle. She needs it for commuting and around-town trips or away trips for 2. Anything that we do as a family, we do in the RV or in the new 4-dr wrangler.

Plus, we have a daughter turning 16 next year and something smaller like this would be a bit easier for her to drive than the wrangler which is quite sizable.

Thanks for the comments!

 

My wife eyed the mini for a year and finally while on vacation in Miami we went to a dealership and the selection was great. One day later we had the car (S) and for the past three years it has been the most delightful car to own and drive. Our 23 yo son wants his mom to bring the car to his BMW club back in Baltimore and he is as happy as she is to have it in the family. It is nimble, roomy and quick. The big downside is the runflat tires. Great handling but rough ride. Back seat riders have it the worst for the ride but its got great leg room. You will be amazed at the cargo room with the seats folded. The shifting takes some getting used to though. One last thing, you do not feel like you are in a small car, the speed and ease of handling gives it a secure place on the road. Best of Luck with your choice!