Long story as short as possible but background might be relevant. I used to have a Clubman back around 2011-12 and loved it but needed more space so we got rid of it. I am now looking for a weekend ride to take day trips with. My only concern is most Mini's I am looking at require a 2-4 hour drive so I might have to buy without driving or waste a day(s) coming back without my car.

I've owned quite a few performance cars over the years but at this point in my life, I am all about smiles per gallon this time around, so it's back to Mini.

So, for my confusion:

I've narrowed it down to my interest and price range to a 2013-2015 Mini Cooper Convertible S with automatic. Then I saw the Roadster. It looks so much better with the top down, and I don't need back seats as it will be the wife and me. We might bring a cooler and some fold up chairs or change of clothes; that's about all.

So if I go the Roadster route, what do you think the differences or concerns I might have?

Thanks in advance for your insight.

 

The roadster looks like added fun factor vs a hardtop or cabrio. I chose the hardtop for balanced aesthetics (to my eyes) as well as being able to take my 25# pooch along for rides (with large cushion for her comfort and to protect rear seats). My own MCS is meant strictly for fun (hence username) with no commuting or city driving, since I live prox 85 miles from the nearest population center. Protection from weather is also a factor for me which IMO the hardtop provides better than either the cabrio or roadster - even when equipped with the glass roof as is mine and most hardtops it seems. Beyond that as is often said, "YMMV"...

 

Hardtop was never a factor (for me) simply because I want the drop top option but I think the hardtop looks best.

 

Not too many Roadster drivers it would seem?

 

"So if I go the Roadster route, what do you think the differences or concerns I might have?"

"Not too many Roadster drivers it would seem?"

Are you expecting us to read your mind about what might concern you or know the differences between a convertible and a roadster just because we have a roadster?

https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...ible-help.html

https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...rchid=14458299

 

Yes, I do. If you're a car guy.

All for nothing now; I decided to go with a hardtop since we won't use the convertible top much and the roadster coupe is too small with the top up and for some reason, everyone seems to find it more feminine. Plus the value isn't holding like the Mini as the roadsters I am seeing are thousands cheaper for comparable models.

 

Oh, I know the differences between the hardtop and roadster first hand. The hardtop is more practical and the roadster is more fun.

 

I have a R52 convertible and a R58 Coupe, drove the roadster and i really like it, did not get one because i already have a convertible. And i found a JCW Coupe' for a good price.

The roaster has a different feel and not like the four seat convertible. Post 17127

https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...today-686.html









Top down is more fun and a more involved experience that will bring you extra smiles.


Good luck.