Even if you could squeeze four 3/4 sized people into the original Mini, they would be insane to ride in one. That poor thing had zero modern safety equipment, no crumple zones, pathetic occupant suitability in an impact with other modern-sized cars.

I'm speaking from the experience of taking the original Mini for an autoX lap last year. Other than being really slow, I felt like if I stretched my legs much, I would punch through the floor to the ground, stand up, and walk off with the rest of the car draped over my shoulders. Cute, but neither comfortable nor safe for the modern day.

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This is for me the best "Mini" ever made.Two adults have a lot of place, very safe, comfy, reliable.I will keep it ,they no longer make them. I prefer of course my "real" Mini.

 

I tend to agree.

 

Some time ago I had one park next to my R56. I couldn't help but to notice how much larger it appeared compared to my R56. Something about the front end gives it an odd look to me.

 

Even a gen1 MINI looks HUGE...park it next to a classic...
When I drove mine home in 2004, I parked it next to my 89 HONDA CRX...the MINI was about a FOOT TALLER, AND LONGER...got rid of the CRX a few days later...but didn't need more than 3 cars at the time!!

 

I get that. One time I parked my MINI next to a gen. 1 MR2, I got out and looked at both cars. Weelbase wise both cars were about the same but the main thing that I was thinking was "damn my car is top heavy compared to the MR2". Even compared to my e28 ///M5 the MINI looks top heavy, but I think some of it is in the wheels, 16" vs 18's on my R56. I've always felt that the R53/R56 sized 2dr hatchbacks are the ideal size for a modern age MINI. I bought mine as a commuter car, and 90% of the time I'm in it by my self. Every now and than a small cute girl rides with me in it... Its the ideal size for what I need it to be. If I needed a bigger vehicle with more leg room and space I probably wouldn't even consider MINI.

 

wow.

 

Agree. I have a second gen and have to say i prefer the look of the first. For me i don't see the point of the larger ones. i do like the clubman though.

 

BMW has sacrificed MIni's distinctiveness, sharp handling, individuality, and charm in an effort to reach a broader market. BMW also cut costs using their inappropriate, too large 1 Series platform. As B.B. King famously sang, the thrill is gone. Very sad.

 

Remember when mini vans were small and midsize trucks were too? I have to say i really liked our Mazda 5 we had as far as room, power and options. Too bad it was a POS. If it was actually a good car i can't think of a more versatile small car for the money.

 

The only thing I find odd about the new Minis is how the dealer refuses to deal.