Well, I drove my first mini today, an S model, and I am very intrigued. We are giving our daughter our Focus ZX3 econocar for college and need a replacement. My need for speed is quenched via my Corvette ZR-1, which I autocross and use for track days, as well as sunny day commutes, but after driving the mini today I am thinking that it would be a great commuter and autox car. It corners like a gocart.

I live in the northeast, though, and wonder what it would be like in the snow. I've had no trouble with the Focus, which has all season wide, low profile tires, so I figure the mini would be about the same.

I'd appreciate any pointers from the more experienced folks here. I am looking at a 2004, S, 34kmi, premium, cold weather and comfort package equipped, light blue model that I hope to be able to get for around 19000. Good deal?

Thanks in advance for any input.