Fiat 500 is nice but!!! I would still rather have a MINI. Don't get me wrong but there is something about the Fiat that bothers me. I just can't put my finger on it. Is it the seats or the smaller (1.4L) engine. or maybe the design?

 

I think with more small cars here and on the horizon, it will all eventually come down to personal choices. If one has a personal affinity or history with a certain make or model, that will kick in. If one assesses turning radius, steering feel, fuel economy, 0-60 times, number of passengers/doors and many other factors, those will also kick in. Some will choose a MINI, some will not and they will have good reasons for doing so because there are finally some nice premium small cars to choose from....and MINI led the way (just like Miata did). Thing is, there are small cars out there that do actually grab the heart, and that is a good thing. I say happy motoring, happy motoring to one and all.

 

Hey! You are exhibiting too much grace and open-mindedness -- have more Kool Aid!

 

I owned several Fiat's in my lifetime.
The early 600s were a culture car.
Had alot of fun in them and they were somewhat reliable.
The new 600 will have it's own following just as MINI does.
Some people don't accecpt a automobile for what it is or for what it does.
I don't accecpt HUGE SUV's or trucks.
As long as we can choose what we want to drive, I'm happy.

 

I saw my first today on the road. It was small but way more normal looking than the smart car. I can see buyers having fun with it. Good mileage and not butt ugly are a nice combo.

 

Saw my first one today... it was black... and filthy. How did they get it so dirty so fast?

 

Drove by a dealer open for business a little over a month ago but I have only seen one on the road so far. I think it was yellow. I'm interested in checking them out, especially the Abarth. I remember visiting London a couple years ago, there were 500's everywhere. My heart will always belong to MINI though.

 

personally i really wish they'd bring the grande punto 3 door to the us. It looks to be about mini/gti sized, and doesn't look like a peep.

 

I'm still enjoying mine as a daily driver.