Just got a new 2011 Mini Cooper S Convertible, Automatic, Pepper White for my wife. Most fun thing I have ever driven!

Might want to also get myself one now.

what's most popular, automatic trans, or 6-speed manual?

Glen in Portland, OR

 

What does it matter what's more popular? Get what you want and are comfortable with! A lot of people will say def go for the manual if you're ever choosing between the two.

 

I ordered mine with the manual.

I don't know which one is more popular. I don't think you can get that answer unless Mini issues a report.

But if you're going to custom order one, you might want to do some research first. I thougt I read in one of posts that the automatic transmission comes from Japan. Due to the diaster they suffered, Mini may get the transmission from another source. I don't know if this is really true or not, but you want to check before custom ordering an automatic.

Now, if you're going to buy one off the dealer lot, then it doesn't matter. You should probably test drive an automatic and a manual, then see which one you like the most. I thought manuals are cheaper??

 

Manual if you actually enjoy the driving experience.

 

The finance guy at my dealership told me that Automatics are being reserved for special orders and that no automatics will be made for "on the lot" cars

 

Congrats n welcome.... Get yourself one..

 

Welcome!

 

Both are fun choices and you can't go wrong with either. Some are under the impression that the auto is like the one in your grandfather's Buick and is no fun, but the sport mode and the paddle shifters really liven up the fun. Most MINI's are equipped with the 6 speed manual which is also a great choice. One big difference in the two is in 6th gear the rpm's for the auto are only around 2000 rpm at 60 mph which makes for great relaxed cruising on a trip.

 

Thanks to all of you for the responses! I have a Chev. truck, a new Grand Cherokee, and a Prius, but find myself getting into my wife's Cooper S more and more because it is just kick to drive on the backroads here in Oregon. Pure driving fun! Her automatic with the sport shift is very good, but I need to test a manual before getting my own.

 

Good Lord! You got a regular used car lot at your house!