I really love that the MINI is sticking to the old-school manual instead of throwing in something like an SMG. Swinging the manual around is so much fun in this car!!

I tried out the GTI, and it was a stompingly quick little car. The DSG was OK, but I like a manual more. That's all personal preference, though. The ride quality was a little better than the MCS, which you get used to but never feels good when you're a new passenger.

One thing about the GTI- it's underrated, horsepower-wise. The engine's been dyno'd by tons of people at around 220 hp, 210 tq. Not bad!

The MINI felt much more involving and much more characterful. Driving the MINI is like playing with a big puppy - driving the GTI is like... driving anything.

 

I couldnt have said it better myself. I see other cars and some might be faster for cheaper or some price but I see the Mini as having a soul. Other cars just seem like nuts and bolts while the Mini has a soul to her. To me, there is more to a car then just HP of Car X > then HP of car Y and etc.

 

Location: Watkins Glen, NY = 2,149

according to Rand McNally '03

Earl

 

I agree. I love, love, love my cooper and would never sell it. However, the GTI (an '00, VR6) was a very spirited little car with great power. It handled well, and if it weren't for the electrical probs, it'd probably still be around.

I am not in the market for a new car, but I'd liek to see the new R32.

 

This is what we (My Fiancee and I) are doing. Get both! hehehe... She is trading in her '06 Jetta TDi for a new GTI package 1 with 18's in candy white. Its gonna be a great looking driveway! I have been working for VW for 3.5 years, (Sales and Service) and I am the vice-president of Wasserwerks VW/Audi club. VW has a great product that is ten-folds better than the MK3/MK4 generations. Yes, it is heavier, and NO it is not faster than a MCS. It feels faster just because the turbo spools so quick, and the car has great torque. If you have any questions you think I may be able to help you with regarding the VW product, let me know! Good luck, they are both a great bet, but I prefer the MCS.

 

So, after all the hype of the new GTI, I thought I would go take a look at it. Visually the front of the car is pleasing, however the back end just screams economy car. I told the salesman that I have ordered a MINI and it was really funny how quickly he backed off. Its like, in his mind, oh, this guy has ordered a MINI, he will have no interest in the GTI. He then said that there was one in the showroom and if i had any questions, ask. Well, hell, that was kind of off putting right there. Sat in the car for a while and it just didn't feel right. It was very bland to sit in. Like some people have said, no soul. Never did get around to test driving it, but at that point, I really didnt want to. For me, a lot about my car is looks, and performance is an extra. And don't get me started on the plaid seats. Ugh.