Mini - Mini |
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2001-06
Everyone loves MINI, now offered as a convertible as well as a three-door hatchback. It has all the fun and character of the original, plus BMW engineering - though it's expensive.
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Strong image: fun, funky, fashionable |
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Great fun to drive, good grip and precise handling |
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Very low depreciation so far |
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Cooper S Works version is costly |
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Back seats are best suited to kids |
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Petrol engines are loud at high revs |
MINI isn't perfect. One and Cooper models are slightly underpowered, with crude old engines; there's limited rear seat space and load capacity; and some reliability niggles were noted on early cars. But its roller-skate handling that nearly matches that of the iconic original - no mean achievement given today's tougher safety requirements, the extra weight and extra equipment it carries. And it is already just as iconic, with a dedicated fan club. You don't just buy a MINI, you buy into a lifestyle.
The supercharged Cooper S is a class-leader amongst small hot hatches, and the BMW-approved John Cooper Works upgrades can take it to the track. All MINIs can be infinitely accessorised and customised, in the spirit of the original. The new Convertible has to be the most desirable small drop-top of the year, even if it isn't the fastest. In terms of both image and entertainment value, nothing else comes close.
None
Nissan Micra (2003-)
Honda Jazz
Volkswagen Beetle
