Hello, this is my first post. I've been thinking about getting a Clubman, so I have been reading as much as I can find. This site has been a great source of information.
Here is what I'm condsidering:
Clubman (non-S) BRG w/ silver roof and stripes, 6spd, sport pkg w 16" bridge spokes and the leatherette sport seats.

Pretty basic, but that is how I like it. I'm having a hard time deciding on the color. I also like the HC, and Horizon blue. I've tried about every combo on Mini's site. I even considered midnight black. I used to have a non metallic black car that was just incredible to look at when polished.

I should also mention that I am also considering a Subaru Forester. A used one of '03-05 vintage. I've owned a 98 Forester and a 00 Outback. Both were good cars. Very different from a Mini, but still a consideration. Much cheaper too (buying used).

Ryan

 

Well i took the plunge and bought a new 09 Mini Cooper hart top Lighting Blue with white top/ white bonnet stripes . I test drove a clubman and it handeled just like the base model . Only difference is the extra room in the clubman = back seat room and storage space ! Clubman cost a little more and i had a budget so i went for the hard top base model .If you need storage space go for the clubman and have kids or pack them in back seat of a base mini ! You can't go wrong with a Cooper either way !
I smile from ear to ear every time i drive now and i wash my car twice a week now to make it shine . Drive other cars and you will see ! i tried them all !

 

I know how you feel. I took the Legacy Outback in for an oil change. I tried to convince myself an Outback Sport or Forester is a more practical car. I loved my old 98 Forester, and the Outback is better equipped. My wife drives it. But the only car on the lot that really caught my eye was a Cooper in the pre owned dept. I do need the extra space, so it is definately going to be a Clubman. I keep trying to tell myself a x, y, or z would be just fine, but then I try to see myself living with any of them for 10+ yrs. The only car I've owned that was really timeless and fun to drive was a Porsche 944. I miss that car. I think the Mini can replace that void. Also, Subarus posted MPG is only 20/26. Mine always were closer to 24-28, but still is a ways from a Mini. The Porsche got 25-27, and it was over 20 yrs old when I sold it.

Still thinking. I have to wait a couple of months anyways.