>>Well, the Civic is a stunning design that turns heads and a design that one would never out grow....
>>
>>NOT!
>>
anyway, I went to the MINI dealer and drove it again and I have to be honest, the car is totally cute and unique! but what about all the "little problems" I read in this same forum? I know every single car has its issues but I just want to make sure it the right car for me I will keep you updated, and thanks again for all the nice comments. I am going to check out the Monte Carlo now

 

I'm with those that feel that if you don't just LOVE the MINI and must have it then you should get the Honda.

I don't think most MINI owners spent much time deciding if they were going to buy a MINI or something else. They spent their time aganizing over what COLOR of a MINI they were going to buy.

 

>>>>>>
>>>>>>>>I am a bit confused now, The MINI or the CIVIC SI which one to get?
>>>>>>
>>>>>>If you can't decide now, then go with the Civic. It's really a love or hate thing with the MINI. Either it's the only car you can think about (which it appears you don't fall into that category) , or its just another cute car (which it appears you do fall into that category). If you haven't fallen in total love with the MIN now, you probably never will. Again, go with the Civic, because if you get the MINI and have a single problem with it (cracked windshield, coolant tank, stalling, etc), then you'll be second guessing yourself all the time.
>>>>>>
>>>>>>Just my 2 cents...
>>>>
>>>>
>>>>Here! Here! Total agreement from me.

 

>>All I want is the perfect car, and I have never bought a new car before so you must know how it feels :smile:

MINI problems ... with 7500 on my MC I have had none that concern me. My driver window rattled a little in the door frame when the door was open - turned out that it could be fixed (and was) but I was never in a position where it really troubled me.
I have not had any gear box or cable trouble, I do not have a rattling sunroof, my car is manual so no CVT issues ...

With most web sites, like real life news, you will read the bad stuff - the happy people are too busy being happy!

I bought my MC in May 2002, to keep me driving happy till my ordered MCS came (now only days away!)
I had a Lexus RX300 (nice SUV) and planned to keep it for transportation and poor weather ... did not drive it for three weeks. Then when I did, it was awful! Big body roll, no spirit. No SMILES

Best fun so far was the MINI get together with other owners in November last year; the MINI is great fun, it introduces you to smiling people. But it is not perfect.

Like others say be CERTAIN you want it and can live with its challenges (for me, no rear passenger space, and harsh runflat tire ride on less-than-perfect roads which is most of them!)

 

>>Wow some of you guys are rude and totally not friendly at all!

Name one. I re-read every message in this thread and not one person not being friendly. Two of us took time out of our busy lives and checked out your photography and made good comments to you about it.

You asked for our opinions and we gave them. There's no rudeness or un-friendlyness here that I can see. Can you name one with specifics?

 

I have never bought a new car before either. But, when I first saw the MINI it was love at first sight. Even my husband, who is much less extravagant than myself, fell in love and agreed that we needed to buy one. It is a love or hate thing. Don't buy one if you have to weigh all the options. Buy one because you have to....

:smile: :smile:

 

The problems are overblown. I'm sure the vast majority of MINIs, even 02s, have been trouble-free. I have an April 02 build Cooper and it has been completely flawless. The squeeky wheels get the oil.

 

>>I don't think most MINI owners spent much time deciding if they were going to buy a MINI or something else. They spent their time aganizing over what COLOR of a MINI they were going to buy.


AMEN ! I know the options, wheels, etc... that I want but I think there are about 4 colors that look great! In the end, I'll just have to put the colors in a hat and draw one at random!!!

 

Well, let's look at who YOU are. After all, this is a very individual thing. Emotionally, I think the MINI is definitely for you. You are a photographer, and I've viewed your work. You focus on abstract shape, line, and shadow in much of your work. So, you obviously have an affinity for good curves and clean lines. The MINI certainly fits the bill for you, there. Your other choice does not do such a good job there, in my opinion.

Also, emotionally, you have to ask yourself if you want attention or do you want to blend into anonymity. If it is the later, the Civic would be a better choice. But, if you don't mind a little attention, the MINI should be the one. (Hint: Put a magnetic sign on your car advertising your photography.) :smile:

Now, I'm a photographer, also, and one thing I like to do is buck the trend. I like to express my uniqueness. I get enjoyment from breaking from what I refer to as the Sheep Principle in people. I don't like to follow the leader. So, for me, the MINI is a good choice.

Now, let's look at the logical side. I don't know if you've ever taken one of those personality tests, but I'm a fence sitter. I'm more logical than a feeler, but not by much. If I went purely by feeling, I'd jump on the MINI. But the logic side of my brain takes over, and says to myself, "Self, you better check this car out and quit listening to the ad agency's Motoring campaign." :smile: Find out the crash test data, read reviews, read road tests, talk to owners. Graph it, weigh it, sort it, test it. And that's exactly what I did.

And what did I find?

Let me put it this way, if you must have an automatic transmission, I would run, not walk, to the Civic. I don't know what the heck BMW's problem is with getting their CVT transmission working, but it is causing many folks some huge headaches. The only thing I can think of (and this may be totally off the wall) is that the CVT trans was originally designed to perform as a true continuous variable transmission, and folks in the US couldn't get used to the sound of the shifting/rev pattern, so BMW programmed in some traditional engine deceleration shifts. Seems crazy to me. It only lowers the performance, and I think the US public would have gotten used to it. But, hey, they have focus groups, and I've already stated that I like to buck the trend.

There were some problems with leaking trans cables which caused freeze up. There were linkage problems. There were handbrake problems.

Interior paint. I'm still not sure what to think on this one. Instead of spending the money (or maybe it was a true style choice), BMW decided to paint the interior plastic instead of creating plastic with color imbedded. Well, on metal, that's not much of a problem. But, I've heard problems with the paint being easily scratched on the plastic. I've also heard the paint will "melt" if you get suntan lotion on it. Some have even lacquered their painted plastic pieces for better protection. So, I don't know about that one. It may still be a problem. Seems BMW should invest in some lacquer if it is a problem.

But, now let's get back to the overall logical issue. From my research, 99% of the problems have been solved on new production, and those that had the problems with earlier vehicles had them taken care of under warranty and are pleased with the repairs.

So, if logic appeals more to you and you are worried about getting a good car, and you are going to buy a new MINI through the custom ordering process and not off the lot, I would say that your chance of getting a car devoid of any problems is 99% (assuming it is not an automatic--still dont have faith in that, yet).

I have looked at the car from both sides. I felt the emotional tug, but I also did my homework. This car is obviously something special. It obviously has a synergy seldom found in an automobile. In almost every post I could find from an owner frustrated by a problem with the car's quality control, that message was nearly always ended with the statement: "I love my MINI." or "I STILL love my MINI". I think that says a lot.

I hope this helps in your decision. I certainly empathize with your concerns. For some, the MINI may be a $25K play toy, so who cares if it has a few problems. If it becomes a hassle, it's a throw away. For me, I want a fun special car, but I need this car to be reliable as well.

For me, my concerns have been allayed. My decision has been made. I am getting a Mini Cooper S, and I expect to have a heckuva good time driving with little to no problems. Now, it's up to you to decide.

And for my next novel, check out Amazon.com.

See ya,
JS

 

Asking people on a MINI forum if you should get a Civic Si or a Mini? Duh! If I were to get an Si, I'd get a used ones... the new ones look like guppies. Ugh. Take a look at VWs, too...

 

>>>>
>>
>> I have to be honest, the car is totally cute and unique! but what about all the "little problems" I read in this same forum? I know every single car has its issues but I just want to make sure it the right car for me

I had to chime in on my wife's behalf (username). Some background-we have 22 Hondas throughout my immediate family, 2 of our own. Been a Honda service technician for 7 years in a past life so I'm a liitle biased.
The day before buying another Honda, wife and I decided to price out a MINI at the local dealer. WOW! Affordable even at MSRP. Shelved the Honda idea and placed an MC order after one test drive the following day....for reasons already posted on this thread.
Yes, Hondas are very reliable but not perfect, I've had my fair share of "little problems" and "fixes" that turned into technical service bullitens(TSB's). So if you have to second guess your purchase, the MINI is not for you. I didn't have to ask anyone or get opinions if I should get a MINI, the MINI did that for me. This is just my personal experience and humble opinion. Good luck on your choice!

 

Can anyone say "Egg-mobile"? If you get a civic, just don't buy white or you'll have to change your name to Mork.

 

take the basic civic - and the basic cooper s and it will spank the civic all day

I thought the post was about the civic Si......civic wins 0 to 60, but the MCS is better handling especially if you get rid of the lousy runflats...

 

If you need anymore proof, just go to the project cars section of Grassroots Motorsports Magazine's site and look at how much work they had to do to get the Civic to perform at a competition level. A bone stock Cooper S blows away a modded out Civic on the tracks, and even competes with modified Porsches and M3s.

 

A bone stock Cooper S blows away a modded out Civic on the tracks, and even competes with modified Porsches and M3s.

better check the water you have been drinking regarding the M3, laugh...I have driven a M3 on the street and also around a closed track course and sorry but they are not even in the same class as far as being competitive, but they aren't suppose to be which is ok......my bone stock MCS was toasted by the new VW Turbo, which was pretty surprising as well as funny since I don't take 0 to 60 that seriously....I know I could take him through the slalom, laugh!

 

I drove a Subaru Impreza 2.5RS, Civic Si, VW GTI 1.8T (the new 180hp one), and a MINI Cooper before I decided on the MINI. (I never drove a S for various reasons...)

The Civic Si has more power and will probably be more reliable. Also, the plastic panels probably won't rattle like my MINI's. It's a Honda so it's going to have great resale value and more than 70 dealers to work with. Despite the fact that it had a distinctly Euro handling feel to it, I found it boring to drive and never bothered with more than one test drive. It's styled like a shrunken minivan and the doors fit ridiculously into the body of the car. The dash shifter seemed like a cool idea but didn't turn out to be any more fun or useful than a well placed floor shifter.

The MC was way more fun to toss around on the street. It's not as fast (get the S), but, who cares? It's more fun.

I made my decision based on this important performance index: Number of smiles/laughs/gasps/squeals I can illicit from my passenger(s) per trip. The MINI wins this hands down!

(If you want to drag race, get a GTI. It handles like a boat but it's _FAST_.)

 

I totally agree with 2ndgear! I have owned several Hondas over the years, including the 50hp on my boat and the 02 100 Sabre in the Garage! My brother owned the Civic Si and I had the Civic. Great cars, but no comparison to the Mini if you are looking for that special something or mystique! I love my MCS!! Hands down, it would be my choice over the Civic at this time. The new Civic catches your eye, but the Mini camereadere is unparalleled!!

 

but if you buy the Honda your will be joining the rice burner group


Its another one of those lets bash on the rice burners comment. Just cuz someone drives a honda doesnt mean theyre a rice burner. Are all the grandmas out there that drive hondas and toyotas rice burners too? And by the way Mini rolls all that stuff that you said about Mini owners talking to each other and helping each other out with their cars well rice burners do that too, beleive it or not even the muscle car folks do. Its called a car club. I have a honda accord so I guess you can say im in the rice burner group. but I also have a mini cooper and I love it. Oh and the new civic si looks like an egg to me, but its fast.

 

All of this is getting worse and worse......I am really confuse!!!! I keep thinking about the MINI every DAY, I know is there, but...

 

Well, I'm another photographer who drives a MINI. I was driving a VW GTI before that, and the MINI basically hit me as a unique and wild car to drive. I have a Cooper and am very happy with it. It's actually the first car I've had that I want to tinker with and modify. Not that it NEEDS it, but it just makes me want to. The way it handles the curves and back roads is fantastic. I have taken more drives than I can count in that car out in the country, etc., just to drive. No car I've had previously inspired me to just randomly drive in no real direction. And as a photographer, that can be a good thing. Yeah, it rattles when it's 5 degrees out, so did my GTI. But as spring comes around...forget it. That big sunroof stays open with the windows, and at night, that dashboard is amazing. Just my thoughts...

 

I recommend you to go check out the Si forums at 2k1civic.com they have a lot of comments about the new Si. My honest recommendation would be to go for an Acura RSX Type S (if you decide not to get the Mini).

General comments on the Si are that it´s too heavy (even heavier than sedan and coupe) and not that fast at all. Styling is subjective but most civic people don´t like the little minivan. The only thing you do need to get would be bigger rims and tires, since the Si has skinny 195 15 inches.

Having a civic myself (a 01 EX sedan) I can tell you they are really good daily driver cars, the vtec engines are great and it won´t rip your wallet when you get gas (the Mini won´t either). But beware, 7th gen civics are far from being a perfect car also, they also have quite some issues. My car has an extremely soft suspension that makes the car bounce, and it is full of rattles. Other than that I still love to drive it.

 

I used to have a Honda...they are reliable, but very boring IMHO.

Mexminime makes a good suggestion. Check out some Si forums and see what you think. Obviously most people on this board are going to try and push you towards the MINI because the vast majority of us love our cars very much (myself included). Since you have our point of view, you can get the Si drivers' also.

I was looking at GTIs before I got my MINI and I am 100% satisfied with my decision. I was driving back from Alexandria last night on 95 and the whole time I was just completely thrilled with how my car was handling.

 

I've owned many Civics over the years...started puttin' fat tires on 'em back in '84, which makes me, like, Grampa Rice, or something. I never like the looks of 'em when they first come out, but love the looks right around the time they're bringing out the next one...aesthetics are subjective...pick what you like.

Despite being on this board, and despite owning a MCS, I think Civics are great cars. I've never had any issues with one...just change the oil. I recommend them all the time to somebody that's lookin' for reliable transportation.

Obviously the difference is PASSION...hard to get real worked up about a Civic...not hard at all with a MINI...

Your mileage may vary...different strokes for different folks...Can't we all just get along...

DREW

 

Maybe I missed this ( a lot of posts here!) but I don't think anyone has mentioned price. You can't compare a Civic Si to an S if you take price into consideration. You've got to put it up against the Cooper, and that makes it a very tough call.

I actually bought my used Cooper from a Honda dealer and drove a new Si during the process. It's a very nice car, if somewhat aesthetically challenged. They wanted around $17.5k for the Si, which puts in right in the middle of Cooper territory. As far as I know, a new S will be $20k minimum. That's a big gap.

I walked away from driving the two cars feeling like the Cooper had an edge in handling, not so much in at the limit dynamics (didn't go there with the sales guy in the passenger seat!) but in feel. The Cooper's steering is really special among the FWD cars I've driven, the Si included. It's light, direct and quick, with great feedback. Brakes I thought felt were very comparable between the Cooper and Si. But when it came to engines, the Cooper couldn't touch the Si. Totally different leagues (kind of like the Cooper and the S!). And, coming from many years in an Alfa, I loved the Si's shifter placement.

Why did I go for the Cooper over the Honda? Resale. I knew I'd love driving both cars, but I also knew that my slightly used Cooper at $2k under list would hold its value better than a brand new Si, no matter how good a deal I could strike. I'd say the same would hold true for a new Cooper, given the demand/supply situation. Of course this assumes that MINIs don't begin self-destructing after 30k miles and go the way of the Yugo! You know this won't happen to the Si.

Hope this helps. (Probably not much!) Bottom line is that I don't think you can go wrong with either the Cooper or the Si.

 

Here's a pretty good forum and thread regarding the Civic and its review by Sport Compact Car. Have to sift through a lot of the immaturity though.

Link