So I was set on the regular mini 'non S" and went to the dealer for a test drive. While in the showroom (Patrick Mini') I saw a 2009 Chocolate Mini Clubman with Chocolate leather interior and fell in love. My previous choice was the 2009 Pepper white mini W/ Red lounge leather interior. Know I don't know which I want more!!! any suggestions????

 

The HC Clubbie. No question about it.

...but I am a wee bit biased.

 

depends on what you use it for. It you need more utility get a clubman, if you just want to get away and have a reason not to take everyone, get a mini coop. I suggest a gettin a S model whatever you get.

 

What are your needs and your plans for the car? If this is a second car and your daily commuter, perhaps the Coupe would be a good fit (slightly smaller parking spaces needed). Otherwise if you need to carry more or this will be your only car maybe the Clubman is a better fit, IMO. There is a link on Why A Clubman that might help.

I personally like the proportions of the Coupe more, but with two dogs needed the larger space the Clubman provides. So figure out what purpose the car will be meeting and go from there.

 

You will get nothing but clear thinking, unbiased opinions here!

Go for the Clubman! It has a rear seat that you can actually use for people you want to ride with you again!

 

Clubman... like you would even think there was a choice?

 

Admittedly so, this is the voice of reason! And I have to agree, but for one thing - you can do both things in the clubman. I put my back seats down and I have a two seater. Plus it is the cooler of the two.

And if you like speed get an S.

 

I <3 Hot Chocolate Clubbies, and I own a DS/B MCS

 

I believe the mileage is identical too. So, identical mileage and more space in the Clubman...plus more stares in the Clubman (that could be good or bad)...it's definitely more attention grabbing, especially when you're loading.

 

We've owned both..Love them both...The Clubman offers just that added bit of room in the back seat area that we really needed and wanted in order for 2 more adults to ride comfortably...plus we can haul a wee bit more stuff when need be...

Donna

 

Clubman, no question.

Back seat you would want to sit in
Slightly "bigger car" feel that comes from the longer wheelbase
The fold flat seats in the rear do seem to provide a slightly more usable storage area when you need it

 

Hmmmm.... I think I'm starting to like the idea of the clubman

 

Go with your gut, your financial situation and be sure to test drive both versions (S and non S) of both the hatchback and the Clubman.

 

Don't do it miniguy5! A Clubman is a boring stationwagon used by silver haired retirees living in Florida condos. Get a real MINI instead.

 

Ha...no way Jose.........

Donna

 

Hey! are you talkin' about ME?

Meet me & my station wagon on the Dragon and we'll settle it fair and square.

 

The clubman is really nice, I got to drive one at MTTS LA and it was really fun.. so I'm kinda leaning that way haha

 

ftttubrgcm, I didn't take you to be a silver haired retiree living in Florida...my understanding is that Alan-A-Dale is a Clubman

 

Ditto, if I had cash laying around, I'd be driving the HC/Black Club "S" right now. I have enjoyed a few miles in one and think it's a great MINI to own. Then I could track my R50 to death Someday, Someday

 

Coopdy, I see that, now! I do believe you are right!

hmmmm the plot thickens....

 

Clubman>Mini

What you'll get with the Clubman over the Mini;
1. More cargo space
2. More rear passenger space
3. Minus 1 to 2 horsepower(woop dee doo)
4. Cooler rear doors
5. Same gas mileage
6. Wider turning radius(by a foot)
7. Debatable but, more stable at higher speeds
8. Flushed cargo space when rear seats are down
9. Not much change in drivability(some argue that you give up some zipp with the Clubman but I notice little difference-pretty much like the 1 to 2 horsepower difference)
10. More looks by strangers
11. Individuality-I have not seen a single Clubbie yet in my area. Other than showroom

Get the Clubbie. Even if you don't need the space right now, you will eventually. Whether it be 10 years down the road with kids or 10 weeks down the road during a camping trip or 10 days down the road when you see a broken down car full of hot ladies and they need a ride. =D

 

12. Your pockets emptier by ~$1600

Yes, the Clubman is a great car but it still isn't for everyone, let's keep things in perspective.

 

Sorry, but I am some hot chick from NY and I just luvvvvv my clubman!!

 

Now...

What about the Clubman S JCW?

Still for silver haired retirees living in Florida condos? Does Brabham know?

 

It is reported that the Clubman handles just as good or better than the coupe. You get more backseat room and more cargo area in the Clubman but it is almost 200 lbs more. I bet some would ask the reason they still make the coupe. Not me. I loved my '05 and I wish I still had it. It was truly a "go-kart".
LadyG, bring it on! I would love to make it over there someday. I thrashed around on the Western Dragon in Colorado and had the time of my life.