Mini Convertible
 

Hi Everyone:

I'm new to this forum - just joined today. I'm seriously considering ordering a Mini Cooper Convertible (non-"S" model) in Cool Blue (w/ Blue top) and with most options, including navigation. For those that have the regular convertible, what have been your experiences with the vehicle (i.e.: power, reliability, problems, etc.). Also, does anyone have the navi. If so, are you glad you got it?

I went to the "miniusa" website and built my own car. With the options I wanted, the vehicle came out to around $29,000.00. The payment estimator indicated lease payments of approximately $415.00/month with $3000.00 down for 36 months. Does this sound realistic?

Thanks for you input...I look forward to becoming a "near" future Mini owner.

JGS

RE: Mini Convertible
 

Personally, I'd scrap the navigation and a couple other accessories and go with the S model, unless you've got plenty of money to spend on this car, in which case I'd get both. The navigation (which I have no experience with, so I can't tell you how good it is) doesn't really seem necessary to me because the Mini isn't exactly a car you are going to take on long trips. Also, I would highly recommend going for the S model because the non supercharged Mini isn't exactly too exciting to drive, and with the extra added weight of the convertible top, it's only going to slow it down more. Reliability-wise, the Mini hasn't exactly passed with flying colors in all of the car mag's (Car and Driver, Road and Track, etc.), but so far the only problem I've had with mine (not a convertible) is having a 3 inch nail shot into the tire.

As for the financing, I'd check with your Mini dealer, but the website is probably very accurate. We used the Mini website to design my Mini while I was at the dealership ordering. It varies for each dealership though.

Good luck and welcome to the forum!

RE: Mini Convertible
 

JGS -- Welcome to the forum. I can't address all your questions, but I do have a convertible (S version) and absolutely love it. I've only had it for about a month, but so far, no problems with the car or the top. Just went through a wicked rain storm yesterday without a drop in the car. Mechanism on the top seems sound and not overburdened whether opening/closing with engine running or on battery power. A couple of cool features -- If the top is down, you can, by holding the key in the locking position, have the top close and windows up. Thus, car is secure and locked in one easy motion. Plus, you can use the remote key to open the top to the sunroof position or all the way down.

I'd tend to agree with XCM's post re the S option. Even with it, I call the power sporty, not overpowering. I think the roughly 50 hp you get from the S is worth it. I don't have the navagation system, so can comment on how life is with or without it.

Re financing. It's just math, so you can check the numbers on other websites.

Best of luck in your decisions. With the Mini, however, you can't go wrong. It's just a matter of how right you go!