Greetings from northeast Georgia USA!

Have a keen interest in a Coupe S or Clubman S 6AT for my next car.

Not yet been to a dealer or even sat in one.

Now driving a Mazda MX-5 with 6AT, thinking I might want more room
and a roof over my head next time.

I like the way the 6AT works in manual mode in the MX-5, tho I don't
use the paddles, just the slapstick.

In photos I have seen, the MINI 6AT slapstick seems to be the same as
Mazda, ie. pull back for upshift, push forward for downshift.

If any forum members have experience driving both the MINI 6AT and
the MX-5 6AT, I would enjoy reading any comments or comparisons.

Thanks!

JR

 

Welcome, if you find a MINI come by our Atlanta shop.

 

While I don't have the AT experience, I did have a 2000SE Miata with 6 speed manual and now have a 2004 Cooper S with 6 speed manual. I sold the Miata several years ago as I didn't enjoy driving it as much as my 1975 VW Scirocco!!! I find the Mini to be much more fun to drive and very practical as well. Far quieter on the highway, more room to move around and able to carry a lot of gear as well. Plenty quick too!! I think you'll really enjoy a Mini compared to the Miata, although they're also great cars but with more limitations on utility/comfort. Best of luck with your search.

Eric

 

I own a 2009 MINI Cooper S with Automatic.
I love the Clubman S for its room and less harsh ride than the regular
Cooper S. I love working the slapstick, and also the paddle shifters , I should also mention the SPORT Button , with the Sport button pressed and in conjunction with the slapstick or paddle shifters its a blast to drive .
The Cooper S has plenty of get up and go it will get you into trouble if you don't watch it. If you LOVE the HP look into the JCW version and hoild on .
I really like driving again, havn't been able to say that in a long time. MINI's are a blast to drive, I like the automatic because you can drive it almost like a stick, and when the traffic gets heavy just put it in D go with the flow and crank up the tunes, and you will get there when you get there, and have the max amount of fun along the way.
I would suggest you visit a dealer and drive both regular Cooper S and the Clubman S automatic models.
I'll be honest and tell you that I did get rid of the Run Flats when mine wore out, I now have Yokohama Avid Envigor tires and it made my Clubman S ride even Smoother !!
You owe to yourself and go test drive both models, I chose the Clubman for the ride quaility, and the extra room.
Let us know what your findings, are and which one you like the best.

 

Will have to go drive one soon

Thanks for the comments!

JR

 

Good luck in your MINI looking, hope you find what you want.

 

The only way to know is to drive 'em and see for yourself. DO IT!