I'm considering trading for a used Mini but the Mini's with the sport pkg I tested drove seemed to have a stiff ride. So I want to know which Mini I should get in order to have a gentler ride. Is the "S" a stiffer ride or is it the Sport pkg that has the stiffer ride, or both? I live in NH and will be driving it year-round but not on back roads very often. I have a number of other options that are a must-have (automatic, winter pkg., sun roof, AC) but don't think they come into play in choosing the style.
Any advice would be appreciated, thanks!
Corinne

 

Getting rid of the run-flat tires on any package and replacing them with traditional rubber will really soften up the ride, especially if you go with a less "sporty" and more touring-friendly tire.

The RF tires are the biggest contributor to the rough, bumpy ride.

 

The sport suspension package gives the stiffest ride. Look for one without that suspension setup and with 16" wheels. Also the 07+ models have a softer suspension feel to them.

 

Good to know about the tires.
So what's the difference between the "S" and the base (other than price), and does that affect the ride as well? Do you recommend one over the other? And if so, why? I really appreciate you taking the time to respond. I bought a Prius last year that has everything I wanted (leather, incredible mileage, Nav, color, mp3 etc) except the most important thing. . .FUN!!! I want to be sure this is what I want.

 

Long story short, the S is gonna be a lot faster in a straight line. It's turbocharged (or supercharged if it's pre-2007.)

The suspension is the same, I think, unless it's fitted with the Sports Suspension, which can be on a Cooper or a Cooper S. S or Non S, shouldn't effect the ride other than what tires it happens to be fitted with.

You'll get SLIGHTLY better gas mileage with the base. It is generally less vulnerable to problems because it is a simpler machine. No turbocharger, no high-pressure fuel pump, etc. Lots of threads on this topic, browse away. Test drive both, see what suits your driving style best. Good luck