I have been searching different forums on this site and reading lots. I am trying to decide on my second car: either a 2006 heavily modified mini s or a lotus exige or elise. The mini is $16000 and the lotus is $34000. I know, this is not an even comparison. Really what I want is a mini and a lotus, but, I need to get one first, then pay it off, then get the other. Common sense tells me to get the mini 1st, pay it off, then go for the lotus. My daily driver right now is a 2000 ford expedition, so my gas consumption is high. I will keep the expedition and will drive every now and then, however, I want something fun to drive. I really like the way the mini looks and I like the way it drives. The Lotus really is a great thrill though. Like a mini on steroids! Please let me know what you think. Opinions and pictures are great to have and to look at. Thanks for listening. This is truly a great site. My friend John whom lives around the corner told me about it. He drives an 05 s, which he has modified. Dave

PS the mini has the stop tech big brakes on the front. What should I expect in the stopping distance 60 mph to 0 ?

 

These two seems so worlds apart that I find it tough to really compare them. They are both great British cars, but what's the goal for this 2nd car? Do you want something fun but functional or are you looking for a track car? (not that the mini can't be both whereas the lotus will no utility). It's a great decision to have to make though and best of luck.

As for stopping distances, I'd guesstimate something around a ten foot drop in stopping distance.

 

Get the MINI first because you will pay it off quicker, then see if your go fast needs are met with the MINI, if not then you can step up to the Lotus. Actually I think the MINI will do it just fine, no step required.

 

Wow that is tough! Having owned both it makes it difficult. I think the MINI will be more practical and provide just as many smiles!

Let us all know which you choose!

Although with the single post count I'm wondering if we already lost you.......

 

I am still here and enjoying the site. I am more of a lurker, being that I dont own one ..... yet..... Thanks for the reply. I am hearing from the responses that the mini is really a Lotus with a back seat.

 

I really like the Lotus and they are alot of fun. But it isn't a car to drive everyday, that's why the used market on the Lotus is so big, alot of people buy them and dump them after the realize how uncomfortable they are for Daily use. They are GREAT track cars, but you can't fit 4 tires in them?? That's why I still drive a MINI. I find myself looking at Cayman's, but again can't carry tires to the track, and insurance, and I don't want to work on a Porsche.

 

Get the Exige