Was reading on MSNBC.com and the MINI Cooper is rated in the top 10 (I believe it states number 1) in resale value for 2005. They give a great little write up on the car and why it is retaining its value. (low production, BMW design, etc.) The best part of the article attempts to explain why this little car seems to bring a sense of enjoyment to all that see, drive or own one. This is a quote from the article sums up why people are just so crazy for MINIs.

"Small yet accommodating, cosmopolitan and oozing with retro-chic. Cooper is unlike any other vehicle. If you fancy one, you can't substitute another marque the way a Honda Accord shopper might swing for a Toyota Camry if he or she doesn't find an Accord that fits. You must own a Mini Cooper alone to appropriate the playful image of sophisticated independence it imparts. Styled after the British-built mini-cars of the 1960s — but artfully expanded to accommodate contemporary sensibilities — Mini Cooper moves exuberantly, with sprite, agile road manners that complement its sassy appearance. Mini promotes the car as a palette for self-expression."

Enough said!! I couldn't put it any better. Hang on to those MINI's people. We have a history making car. Cheers!

 

This is so true. I was thinking of picking up a Civic Si. I drove it and it was fantastic, but my final reaction was "it's just not a MINI."

 

I've often had this same thought. Other cars excel here and there, but there's something peculiar about MINIs. Very odd, yet undeniable.

 

One aspect of value retention that Forbes and other mags don't mention is simply the marquee draw: the name Mini (or MINI), added with "Cooper," has quite the historical legacy (in racing, postwar automotive culture, etc.) and this is def a huge factor! BMW figured that what when it divested itself of Rover, and now they're reaping the benefits. JB

 

i was hung up between a MINI and an S2000. i just couldnt do the honda (my husband really wanted it) because it just wasnt a MINI!

glad to hear about the good press

 

An excellent summary of observations re: the brand/attitude can be found in this blog as posted by 'massive attack' on Roadfly:

http://brandcowboy.blogspot.com/2006...elian-job.html