you should also consider the 07 VW rabbit with the 2.4 liter 4 cylinder engine

 

My wife and I faced this exact decision a few months ago...we were looking for a sporty small car. We test drove 2 vehicles: MINI Cooper S and the new GTI (with 6 speed manual). We liked both very much. I couldn't really notice any real difference between the two in terms of acceleration. I realize that the GTI will beat out a stock S easily, particularly if it has the DSG, but driving the two back to back (with an hour or two in between), I didn't feel like: "Wow, this GTI is sooo much more powerful than the MINI." I also did a few calcs on paper. The stock Cooper S has more HP per pound than the GTI, while the GTI has more torque per pound. I guessed that in the real world that means they are fairly even, and the test drive confirmed it for me. I preferred the overall feel of the MINI vs. the GTI, especially the steering and shifting. I thought that the GTI's controls were too light. The GTI had better interior ergonomics, and certainly more interior room. Overall though, I found that the GTI's interior and exterior were somewhat boring when compared to the MINI. The GTI is definitely more practical with its larger cargo and passenger capacity. We really didn't need the extra space and I was excited that the MINI at about 2 feet shorter than the VW, would take up much less space in our 1 car garage (leaving more room for two-wheeled toys). Price-wise, the two vehicles were pretty much even (optioned to our preference). I wanted a sunroof, and it bothered me that on the VW you had to get a $3000 package in order to have the sunroof. That package included options I would never buy otherwise (like satellite radio). I really liked the ability to pick and choose with the MINI. In the end we choose MINI...no regrets.

 

Don't get me wrong. I LIKE the GTI. I test drove one a month ago. When I took the key out of the ignition, the car was still running as I held the key in my hand.. I looked at the salesguy and he shrugged. So since its a new model (is it?) I'd hold off a year or so. I held of a few years before getting my first MINI. I'd get the MINI for a few years and after VW works out kinks.. go for it. Also, VW already is working on a revised body style for the Golf since its not selling well in Europe. By then it might be both as fun and nicer to look at even (though I liked the way the current GTI looks). As an aside a friend of mine has a 03 Passat that has been nothing but trouble. He is taking a bath as he trades it in next week.. on a new MINI. Bottom line, IMHO GTI = nice, but new, wait a year or two. Get MINI and sell in a few years after they work out kinks. MINI depreciation or the lack thereof (or minimal) will surprise you..

 

LIke them both. But if it was an interior look and seating priority..VW (Why can't MINIUSA have great seats!!!)

Outside styling.. Mini


Money no object Both!


Paul