Given the similarities between the latest generation MINI and modern BMWs, how many of you have bought a MNI coming from a BMW? Also, what are your thoughts?

 

I just traded in my 2013 328xi for a 2016 Cooper justa. I've been a BMW owner for the last decade, but this last 328, while a nice car, was uninspiring and not much fun to drive. I missed the smaller, lighter car, and the manual transmission. On the other hand, I've always appreciated the fit and finish and the quality of the BMW. This Mini is very much a small BMW. And this is a plus for me. Set-up and controls are the same, quality is outstanding. The 3 cylinder engine is fantastic! Reminds me of the old inline 6. I know long-time Mini owners may not like how "German" the car is becoming, but I think it's a plus. It's an amazing car that is unlike anything in its class. I will also say that I resisted loading it up, going very simple. Even at its most basic, it's a well-appointed ride.

 

There have been more than a few individuals recently who have posted up their new MINI's and have noted they made the switch from BMW or that they currently have a BMW, but now own a MINI. Actually, an interesting note is that on the Porsche forums you'll see more than a few guys own MINI's as well. I see this a lot for BMW and Porsche.

 

I came from an e46, a bit of a jump (in years) from a 2000 323i to 2015 MCS but I love MINI. It was as easy as a transition as jumping from my e36 to my e46 was. And honestly, the MINI F56 seems better built than both of my previous cars. Surprisingly, the maintenance and serviceability of the MINI seems to be pretty good too. everything takes an hour longer than before because it is exactly the same as the older cars except, "remove front clip" is put in front of every install instructions. Or so it seems. Also, for the price of a new BMW I would consider, I would be looking at I could almost buy 2 MINIs I would prefer.

 

I recall reading a comment on one of these Mini forums from a former 911 owner. He said that the Mini gave him 80% of the driving pleasure for 20% of the cost. Several years back I had a Carrera Cabriolet and I have to agree.