R50/53 Honestly, what do you Mini Drivers think of your Cooper?
Thread Starter
|
2nd Gear
Joined: Dec 2002
Posts: 51
Likes: 0
Well, after much thinking, and I mean much. It takes me months to decide on cereal alone for a week. I decided to get the Mini. I was also considering the Toyota Matrix or Rav4. Yet when I drove the Mini 2nd time around, the first time I was too nervous to really drive, I drove it was my own. <p>
However, the 2nd time around I drove the test model as if I owned it for years. Even the dealer told me, " you might want to slow down, school intersection", I enjoyed it that much this time. It drove it like it was my Camaro yet it was 4 cylinders and front wheel. It was the only car that I always checked up on the net. I decided to get the Mini Cooper in Indie Blue with the chrome inserts, 16' 5-Star Run-Flats, spoiler, chrome exhaust, fog lights w/ Panther Black Kaleido Cloth interior with a CVT. My Salary is what kept me from an S. I'm 23 and still in college. As an artist as well in the need of a car, that's why I chose the Mini, the style and uniqueness....if that's a word. I drove a Camaro RS for 5 years and enjoyed that despite its flaws.... sliding and snow bounded when anything over 3 inches hit the road. The Mini completely changed my mind upon cars. I said to myself once " I don't care what it looks like, as long as it has TONS of SPACE and can get me THROUGH to WORK. It changed my outlook completely. After that, all I wanted was this car. The purpose of this post is to see what others thought when they bought this car and their afterthoughts. My car is being delivered in June, so of course I'll enjoy it then. Buy I want to hear everything from every purchaser. What they think, what they like and dilike about the car and what they think about my options. I never drove the run-flats, but $500 more for cooler rims and tires that I don't have to change when the do spring a leak, I think it's worth it. Any comment at all is appreciated.
However, the 2nd time around I drove the test model as if I owned it for years. Even the dealer told me, " you might want to slow down, school intersection", I enjoyed it that much this time. It drove it like it was my Camaro yet it was 4 cylinders and front wheel. It was the only car that I always checked up on the net. I decided to get the Mini Cooper in Indie Blue with the chrome inserts, 16' 5-Star Run-Flats, spoiler, chrome exhaust, fog lights w/ Panther Black Kaleido Cloth interior with a CVT. My Salary is what kept me from an S. I'm 23 and still in college. As an artist as well in the need of a car, that's why I chose the Mini, the style and uniqueness....if that's a word. I drove a Camaro RS for 5 years and enjoyed that despite its flaws.... sliding and snow bounded when anything over 3 inches hit the road. The Mini completely changed my mind upon cars. I said to myself once " I don't care what it looks like, as long as it has TONS of SPACE and can get me THROUGH to WORK. It changed my outlook completely. After that, all I wanted was this car. The purpose of this post is to see what others thought when they bought this car and their afterthoughts. My car is being delivered in June, so of course I'll enjoy it then. Buy I want to hear everything from every purchaser. What they think, what they like and dilike about the car and what they think about my options. I never drove the run-flats, but $500 more for cooler rims and tires that I don't have to change when the do spring a leak, I think it's worth it. Any comment at all is appreciated.
Hey BadApple, welcome to MCO! :smile:
Just so you don't think folks are ignorning your post -- of course it IS Sunday, and it seems that everyone is wrapped up in comfort food and such
)
Just so you don't think folks are ignorning your post -- of course it IS Sunday, and it seems that everyone is wrapped up in comfort food and such
)
4th Gear
Joined: Jan 2003
Posts: 418
Likes: 0
From: Baltimore, MD
Since the MINI is available with so many options, it has a fairly broad appeal. My idea of what a MINI is probably differs wildly from the guy (and I think I'm fairly safe characterizing this buyer as a guy) who orders an S with all the sport options.
I love my MINI for its classic looks, the way it handles on the twisty-turny roads here in rural MD and for all the convenience features. I don't care to race, I don't need to impress anyone with my wealth, taste, sex appeal or what-have-you. I think it's kind of neat that people stop and ask me how I like the car. Without trying to read too much into this behavior, I think that anything that increases the amount of friendly interaction among strangers can't be anything but beneficial for society.
Mark of Pemburnia
P.S. A car like this really deserves to have a stick shift. Even though I've become accustomed to the comfort of an automatic in my previous cars, I would not think of buying a MINI with a CVT. Better gas mileage with a stick, too
I love my MINI for its classic looks, the way it handles on the twisty-turny roads here in rural MD and for all the convenience features. I don't care to race, I don't need to impress anyone with my wealth, taste, sex appeal or what-have-you. I think it's kind of neat that people stop and ask me how I like the car. Without trying to read too much into this behavior, I think that anything that increases the amount of friendly interaction among strangers can't be anything but beneficial for society.
Mark of Pemburnia
P.S. A car like this really deserves to have a stick shift. Even though I've become accustomed to the comfort of an automatic in my previous cars, I would not think of buying a MINI with a CVT. Better gas mileage with a stick, too
3rd Gear
Joined: Mar 2003
Posts: 158
Likes: 0
From: Saratoga NY
OK, I have enjoyed my MCS since Sept 9. What do I think of it...The absolute most fun car I have ever driven. I have had a ton of cars over the last 30 years (can't believe its been 30 years!) from 340 Cuda's to MGB's and a MGA. The Mini I enjoy the most . It has decent performance and so far no problems of any kind (7000 miles). Of course I am looking at it from a slightly different perspective. This is not my main source of transportation and I don't intend it to be. This is my hop in when I feel like it, lets go for a ride, whatever car. For this purpose, for me, it's great! 
2nd Gear
Joined: Dec 2002
Posts: 90
Likes: 0
From: North Carolina
BadApple - Great Spec! I have a Cooper and truly don't miss the extra power for everyday driving. The larger wheels give you roadholding that is nearly the equal of its more powerful brother without the ride harshness. Truth is, they're all super. You won't regret the decision.
5th Gear
Joined: Nov 2002
Posts: 781
Likes: 0
My MC is special, I've never been so attached to a vehicle. Once you get yours, you'll enjoy adding to it: space conveniences, performance mods, appearance extras- it will make it even more fun. I have the run-flats, and they're great. The rough roads make for a rough ride, but we're driving the biggest go-cart available, not a miniature Lexus. 2 things: I agree w/ Mark P., you might consider learning to use a stick. Working the gears through curvy areas (the "twisty bits" is a large part of what makes the MINI so much fun. Also, w/ the $1250 you save on the CVT, you could pop for the MFSW, which is a terrific convenience, and if you like a the idea of a sunroof, you could add it as well- both for about the same cost as the CVT. I wouldn't be w/out either option. As far as the comments from others, well, how about the guy that circled the parking lot, stopped, called to me as I'd walked hundreds of feet from my MINI and was almost inside where I was going to ask me if that was my Cooper. Upon answering "yes"- he smiled and said "Nice car!"
is a large part of what makes the MINI so much fun. Also, w/ the $1250 you save on the CVT, you could pop for the MFSW, which is a terrific convenience, and if you like a the idea of a sunroof, you could add it as well- both for about the same cost as the CVT. I wouldn't be w/out either option. As far as the comments from others, well, how about the guy that circled the parking lot, stopped, called to me as I'd walked hundreds of feet from my MINI and was almost inside where I was going to ask me if that was my Cooper. Upon answering "yes"- he smiled and said "Nice car!" 
Coordinator :: South East - Florida
Joined: Jul 2002
Posts: 824
Likes: 0
From: Winter Haven, FL
Welcome to MCO BadApple!
All I can say is that I LOVE MY MINI!!!!!
Its an amazing car... I can't express how much fun it is to own!! There are very few things about it that I would change. And I think in time, they will change (ie: the cheapo interior plastic that scrapes too easily.)
My dad wants my MINI. He's very finicky about his automobiles (he owns a paint/body shop,) and he has totally fallen in love with the MINI. So I'll probably be selling him my MINI, and getting an MCS within a few years.
Its my daily driver...and I love the way it handles. I have the runflats, and some people don't like them, but I have no problem with them.
Just get the MINI!!!
All I can say is that I LOVE MY MINI!!!!!
Its an amazing car... I can't express how much fun it is to own!! There are very few things about it that I would change. And I think in time, they will change (ie: the cheapo interior plastic that scrapes too easily.)
My dad wants my MINI. He's very finicky about his automobiles (he owns a paint/body shop,) and he has totally fallen in love with the MINI. So I'll probably be selling him my MINI, and getting an MCS within a few years.
Its my daily driver...and I love the way it handles. I have the runflats, and some people don't like them, but I have no problem with them.
Just get the MINI!!!
Trending Topics
Congrats on putting in your order and welcome to MCO!
I've had mine now for almost 3 weeks and 2200 miles on the odometer. Yes this is my daily driver. Everything about the car is perfect for me and if I had to gripe about anything it would be the lack of power between 2K & 4K RPM's and the run-flats. They ride kinda rough and grab the grooves in concrete highways like the bias-ply tires I had on my first car.
I have found that this car has more than enough room for me on a daily basis and the sports seats are great too! Heck, I even like the heated seats (and I live in SoCal).
Again, congrats on your order...you won't be disappointed!
I've had mine now for almost 3 weeks and 2200 miles on the odometer. Yes this is my daily driver. Everything about the car is perfect for me and if I had to gripe about anything it would be the lack of power between 2K & 4K RPM's and the run-flats. They ride kinda rough and grab the grooves in concrete highways like the bias-ply tires I had on my first car.
I have found that this car has more than enough room for me on a daily basis and the sports seats are great too! Heck, I even like the heated seats (and I live in SoCal).
Again, congrats on your order...you won't be disappointed!
3rd Gear
Joined: Jan 2003
Posts: 171
Likes: 0
Welcome. I've only had my MCS for a week and a half. I have found the car to be everything I expected. Lack of power? I'm still breaking the engine in so I have to keep it below 4,500, but I have found it to have plenty of power. The ride is not stiffer than my 914 with konis. If one wants gobbs of power go buy a Vette. If you want a smooth ride buy a Ford. But is you want to smile mile after mile, the MINI is the way to go. Now if the snow will stay away... 
4th Gear
Joined: Oct 2002
Posts: 411
Likes: 0
From: Southern California
Congrats on your order and welcome!
I can only mirror what others have said. I have never liked a car so much, nor had a car that is so much fun to drive. Yes, I have had cars with more power, but none with the originality the Cooper has.
I don't think you will regret your purchase.
JB
I can only mirror what others have said. I have never liked a car so much, nor had a car that is so much fun to drive. Yes, I have had cars with more power, but none with the originality the Cooper has.
I don't think you will regret your purchase.
JB
2nd Gear
Joined: Sep 2002
Posts: 81
Likes: 0
From: Metro Detroit
Well, where do I start...
I've never much cared for cars. I was a motorcycle guy, but this car has changed all that.
I look for excuses to drive.
"Kids need to go to dance tonight? I'll take them."
"Maybe we should go out for dinner. We can take my car." etc.
I even pull my wife's Grand Prix out of the driveway so I can take my MINI when I'm just running to the corner for milk.
And then there are those times (often) where something clicks and feels so right that I never want to stop. It is hard to describe and feels almost spiritual.
My point is, not a day goes by that I regret getting my MINI. My car payment is the only check I write with a smile...
and then I make sure I take the longest twistiest way to the post office to mail it out!
Lobo
_________________
I've never much cared for cars. I was a motorcycle guy, but this car has changed all that.
I look for excuses to drive.
"Kids need to go to dance tonight? I'll take them."
"Maybe we should go out for dinner. We can take my car." etc.
I even pull my wife's Grand Prix out of the driveway so I can take my MINI when I'm just running to the corner for milk.
And then there are those times (often) where something clicks and feels so right that I never want to stop. It is hard to describe and feels almost spiritual.
My point is, not a day goes by that I regret getting my MINI. My car payment is the only check I write with a smile...
and then I make sure I take the longest twistiest way to the post office to mail it out!
Lobo
_________________
4th Gear
Joined: Jan 2003
Posts: 418
Likes: 0
From: Baltimore, MD
BadApple -- coupla things: Run flat tires are not a "cure all" for tire damage. According to the owner's manual:
Also: Join the "Can't wait for June" club (or start it if someone hasn't already. Use the other 'can't wait for' clubs as an example). It will help you through the anxious process of waiting for your MINI to be delivered -- and provide a heck of a lot of fun in the mean time!
Mark
_________________
Frau Blüecar -- MC IB/W. Motoring since 3-10-2003
With Run Flat tires, you can continue driving under certain conditions, depending on the vehicle load and the severity of the tire damage, at a maximum speed of 50 mph / 80 km/h. You can determine the possible mileage for continued driving on the basis of the following general indications:
>Tire inflation pressure 0 psi / 0 kPa: approx. 95 miles / 150 km
>Tire inflation pressure 7.2–14.5 psi /50–100 kPa: approx. 300 miles / 500 km
>Tire inflation pressure greater than 14.5 psi / 100 kPa: approx. 600 miles / 1,000 km.
>Tire inflation pressure 0 psi / 0 kPa: approx. 95 miles / 150 km
>Tire inflation pressure 7.2–14.5 psi /50–100 kPa: approx. 300 miles / 500 km
>Tire inflation pressure greater than 14.5 psi / 100 kPa: approx. 600 miles / 1,000 km.
Mark
_________________
Frau Blüecar -- MC IB/W. Motoring since 3-10-2003
4th Gear
Joined: Nov 2002
Posts: 544
Likes: 0
From: Orlando, FL
BadApple,
I had a GT Mustang convertible (performance & looks), I am a landscape architect (appreciative of all things aesthetic) and now have the MCS with the sport package. Yes, I miss the storage space but this car rules.
You should enjoy this car immensely.
I had a GT Mustang convertible (performance & looks), I am a landscape architect (appreciative of all things aesthetic) and now have the MCS with the sport package. Yes, I miss the storage space but this car rules.
You should enjoy this car immensely.
Former Vendor
Joined: Dec 2002
Posts: 1,026
Likes: 0
From: Olympia, WA
BadApple,
I just finally got past the breakin period....I have a MC with CVT and I can only say
"It's a Blast" my 22 year old son is jealous.....I took him out yesterday and we hit 100mph with out hardly a blink......it was great to get to push it.
You will love it......
I just finally got past the breakin period....I have a MC with CVT and I can only say
"It's a Blast" my 22 year old son is jealous.....I took him out yesterday and we hit 100mph with out hardly a blink......it was great to get to push it.
You will love it......
4th Gear
Joined: May 2002
Posts: 336
Likes: 0
From: Delaware, USA
I'm about to put 19,000 miles on my MINI in a day or two, had it since last May. I'm still just as excited about it as when it was new. I spent a good part of today doing some maintenance, replacing a busted foglight, cleaning the engine bay etc. I've never owned a car before that I would lavish such attention on. And the CVT is a good choice as well, especially if you have to deal with traffic. I've had no trouble keeping up with the pack of 5-speeds and S's on any of the dozen or so MINI drives I've been on.
You will enjoy!
You will enjoy!
5th Gear
Joined: Dec 2002
Posts: 973
Likes: 0
From: MINIlani,HI
ALOHA, BadApple and welcome! :smile:
It sounds like you've down some extensive research on the MINIs. For whatever reasons you selected the CVT, it's still more efficient than a "traditional" AT. Plus, if you feel the need to shift, it has a 6-speed steptronic mode.
I, too, have the MC. 115 HP is plenty power for my needs, also Velvet Red was only available on MC's. The 16" run-flats is "smooth" enough, gotta remember.....the MINI is a street legal go-kart!! Hang Loose!!!
_________________
MINIhune:'03 MC VR/VR,Sport Pak,Anthracite,Kaleido PB/SG,Leather steering. SHE'S HERE!!.
It sounds like you've down some extensive research on the MINIs. For whatever reasons you selected the CVT, it's still more efficient than a "traditional" AT. Plus, if you feel the need to shift, it has a 6-speed steptronic mode.
I, too, have the MC. 115 HP is plenty power for my needs, also Velvet Red was only available on MC's. The 16" run-flats is "smooth" enough, gotta remember.....the MINI is a street legal go-kart!!
Hang Loose!!!_________________
MINIhune:'03 MC VR/VR,Sport Pak,Anthracite,Kaleido PB/SG,Leather steering. SHE'S HERE!!.
7th Gear Gal
Joined: Jul 2002
Posts: 36,087
Likes: 3
From: Weeblegabber West (aka WLA)
>>I'm about to put 19,000 miles on my MINI in a day or two, had it since last May. I'm still just as excited about it as when it was new. I spent a good part of today doing some maintenance, replacing a busted foglight, cleaning the engine bay etc. I've never owned a car before that I would lavish such attention on. And the CVT is a good choice as well, especially if you have to deal with traffic. I've had no trouble keeping up with the pack of 5-speeds and S's on any of the dozen or so MINI drives I've been on.
>>
>>You will enjoy!<<
Ace!!!
So good to see you again!
Cheers!
Clover
>>
>>You will enjoy!<<
Ace!!!
So good to see you again!
Cheers!
Clover
1st Gear
Joined: Mar 2003
Posts: 46
Likes: 0
From: Kansas City
Why? It was love at first sight.
And just like with my fiancee, I can see no flaws, for love is blind.
(But I'm sure the Mini is far more flawlesss than he is! LOL)
BTW, I'm an artist too--and also indecisive...are we the target market?!?
And just like with my fiancee, I can see no flaws, for love is blind.
(But I'm sure the Mini is far more flawlesss than he is! LOL)
BTW, I'm an artist too--and also indecisive...are we the target market?!?
