Well at least you have the option. The GTI comes standard with 'comfy' suspension.

 

Exactly. Since when was "it's a Mazda" a bad thing! The reliability is also far superior to that of a MINI. If you don't like the torque steer, slow down a bit! Use it on the straights where it counts.

 

This MINI challenge sounds like fun. I haven't heard of such an event for the DC area. Looking at the GTI online though, I find it curious that details of its suspension, the overall weight of the car, etc are not published. GTIs have gotten bigger and heavier over the years. In fact, I got to drive the R32 at one time, and even with gobs of power and nice features, it was too heavy for my taste. Also, I think if you balance smiles per mile vs. cost vs economy, the R56 MCS comes out ahead. I always have a huge smile on my face after driving the new MINI, even if it's just for some errands.

 

The 2007 GTI has regained a lot of what it lost when it got big and fat. It has returned to its roots as much as can be expected in 2007. But, it still sin't as fun as a MINI.

 

I think GTI´s sold in the USA are set some inches higher and therefore the handling suffers. The german version should have a much better handling. Of course no match for a MINI

 

I'm pretty sure that I heard the 07s are coming to the States lower...

 

I'm a hardcore VW lover. I own a VW Passat currently and so far it has been the best car I've ever owned. I was in the market for a new car and had my eye on the new GTI. I've also had my eye on a MINI for the longest time. So when I went shopping I compared the two. I test drove an 07 MCS and the GTI within an hour of each other. The GTI was great and fast, but the MCS was more fun and seemed to handle a bit better...and it was less expensive! My new R56 is on the boat right now and I'm awaiting its arrival with much anticipation!

 

I also drove the two on the same day. I wasn't sure I wanted a MINI, but driving the GTI convinced me. After the MINI, it seemed like I was driving a Buick.

I had a 1980 VW Rabbit, but can't say it made me a fan of VW's. It was replaced by a 1990 Acura Integra, which was a much nicer car in many ways. Experiences with the two different dealerships in my area was also quite a contrast. The Acura service department is the only dealership service dept. I've found to be competent and reliable. The VW service was a disaster, as was Dodge for an earlier van. Of course, one of the coolest dealer service depts. was the Alfa Romeo/Ferrari dealership I took my 1957 Spider to. It was fun to go there and see what they were working on.