I have the biggest car in the neighborhood - a Suburban, and the smallest - a Mini convertible. The Minis front seats are as comfortable as the Suburban (I have the custom malt leather that comes with the Sidewalk package). The rear seats are fine for everything but cross country trips. The only weak spot in the back is the absence of any lumbar padding. So if that is an issue for any older folks you may have occasion to transport, get a few of those really cool Mini accessory small throw pillows to keep in the boot. Not an issue for the kids. And I love the leather. No problem with the great little A/C on, in Fla.
The Leather is a bit uncomfortable under the hot summer Fla sun with the top all the way down, but the convertible mini has that great little "sunroof position" where you can open the top part way, up to 60+ mph, and ride in shade, with the top open forward of your seating position. Its the best of both worlds. You will love your mini, and when the 70 MPG diesel clubman, which will probably come to the US (hopefully in a few years) is out you will be making that your second car. Thats what I hope to exchange my Suburban for a few years down the road.

 

I've personally had more than amputee's in the back of my Cabrio. don't think I'd want to ride back there for hours on end but it's not too bad - better than the third row in SUV's I've had to endure. As far as I know (which is a big caveat) the space difference in the Cabrio is in width due to the top mechanism and not in depth (which should be the same as the first generation coupe. The clubman has about 3 more inches from what I've been told as far as back seat room.

 

Thanks to everyone for the feedback. We were able to rent a MC and have been having fun motoring around town with it

We had 4 of us in the car last night and went for a 1/2 hour ride. At some point all of us sat in the back and found it to be plenty enough room. Even behind my husband who is 6' tall. Raising the seat up does make a difference too.

Its official... we'll be placing our order this week!

 

I know you won't regret it. You'll be driving a Mini soon with a big ol smile on your face.