I've been lurking awile and like what I see. I'm currently shopping and have admired the mini for some time. I recently took a test drive - that admiration has turned to love - nah, maybe lust!!! At this point, I have yet to make the plunge. I have some concerns. Perhaps your input will help me take the next step.

1. My first concern is the competition. What other cars, Those having a 'fun factor', did you consider before you chose the mini. I'm still weighing my options...

2. I don't necessarilly want the 'S', but certainly want the Sport Pkg. My concern is the 'run flats'. The dealer indicated they can be replaced with conventional tires when replaced (assuming all 4 are replaced) - I'm ok with that if true. A current owner told me that ain't so and replacing the RFs with reg. tires isn't possible. What's the truth?

Thanks in advance for any help

 

1. No other considerations. I fell in love with the Mini in 2002 and waited until this year to finally get one.

2. Not true. I just purchased a MCS (second Mini - belongs to husband!) whose previous owner had the runflats changed out to regular tires, and I'm glad he did. Or else I would have!

 

what that person told ya about the RFs is total BS. most folks, myself included, see replacing RFs with conventionals as yr first "mod." U wont believe the difference!!

 

We considered the Maza3 HB (Not Speed), the Honda Civic Coupe (I could not fit in at 5'7"), the Honda Sedan, JUST a Civic. Test drove the Mazda3, great handling and FUN Factor, but wasn't sure about reliability. Test drove the MINI and fell in LOVE. Car handled wonderfully in the West Hills of PDX w/6" of snow on the ground. Ordered Molly on 2/19 and she should be coming HOME in the 2nd week of April.
And of course the MINIs have a following that I don't think you will find with any other auto around. We are TOTALLY OC about our Babies!!

 

There is nothing to compare with the MINI. I thought my BMW was the best drive ever until I drove the MINI. I am in love with my Clubman and he was worth the 2+-year wait for U.S. release.
I will sell the BMW now to replace it with a MINI Cabrio next year if things go as planned.
I have 17-inch runflats and will change the wheels and tires later this spring. I don't hate them, but I know the regular tires will be a smoother ride and I want different wheels.

 

Sad but true. MINIs...given all the combined strengths they offer...are conspicuously unique.

 

I looked a several different cars and love the MCS the best. Also it has the best re-sell value of most other cars in it's class.

 

Thanks, folks. Seems you've all confirmed the mini is for me and my concerns are unfounded. Now, for the next step...