I say we all chip in and buy JT a Fiat !! I'd say $.75 a member should do it.

 

I have driven a Fiat 500 (given as a loaner when my MINI was in the shop). The biggest issue I have with that car that I am surprised is not mentioned in reviews is the horrible visibility on the drivers side. The pillar behind the driver is so big when I looked over my left shoulder it was in the way (e.g. when pulling onto a highway). The mirror on the driver side is setup with a convex mirror like a Ford van so you can see that spot. Personally that was very uncomfortable for me to drive.

One thing I love about the MINI is the visibility; it is very easy to see out of when driving. Sure I could adapt to using the mirrors more (which I probably should do anyway) but it just seemed like a poor design decision to me.

 

Italian babes! Probably pick up more in a Mini!

 

It doesn't have hight adjustment?

Both the 500s we hired in Britain has a height adjustment. Now the height adjustment was actually useless, as it just lowered the back of the seat cushion, it didn't alter the back in anyway. So you just feel your bum being swallowed up by the gap behind the seat cushion, totally useless.

 

The true comparison will be 5-7 years from now since the Fiat just came out and it's just the new kid on the block and for that it's getting a lot more credit than it should. But my prediction is that 5-7 years from now, a 2013 Fiat Agbarth will be worth around 7k, where a 2013 Mini S will probably be worth double that if not more! Lots a new models get lots of credit when they first come out but after some time ,their reputation fades away after people realize they all had the same common fever. I love my Mini for what it is and not because it's cool to have something new.

 

LOL - I love this thread. Bravo to the OP for the provocation.

Cheers,

Charlie

 

Honestly, I don't see a 2013 Fiat getting more attractive in then next 5-7 years.

 

I love this ad! But then of course, I have a weakness for Italian cars (I also happen to love British, German and interesting cars of all types).

 

Exactly my point.. ; )

 

 

I think the MINI and Fiat are both stylish, attractive cars. I think the MINI has a better, more fun history and the Abarth won't come close to my JCW in a straight line or track.

I also like that the MINI has more sophisticated options like the leather dash, Recaro seats and integrated MINI Connected system instead of a little cradle on the dash for navigation.

I also like that the MINI is made in the U.K. like its ancestors, instead of Mexico, which has no relation to the Fiat's roots. The fact that the MINI is engineered by BMW is icing on the cake IMO. Nothing against Fiat owners. I like their cars, I think they are cool and stylish, they just aren't in the same league as the MINI IMO.

You get what you pay for. I don't think the performance, OEM customization and the fit and finish are really comparable on these two brands.

 

I don't think the 500 is particularly ugly, it just isn't particularly attractive.

The 500L however, I am not sure how that made it into production.

 

You couldn't have said it better!....

 

And after that triple somersault with a quadruple twist, the Mini stuck the landing.