My MINI is loud. I really notice it in the parking garage and if I get out when it is running. The car is also loud on the inside with a bit of vibration. I would say the noise comes from the side and front more than the back.

Is this normal?

Are all MINIs loud?


There is another MINI at my work and it seems loud as well.

I have 2005 r50 Automatic with 44,000 k on her.

 

Since loud is kinda relative, it would serve you better if you could get a sound clip of some sort and post it. Otherwise, a local opinion is probably the way to go, since sound does not usually replicate well over the interwebz.

Do you have any point of reference for comparison? Any other MINIs around for comparison? Maybe dig around and try to pinpoint where the sound is coming from?

Sorry I'm no help, but I'm sure with a little more info someone can help better. I will say this though, the MINI radiator fans are LOUD under normal circumstances.

 

No matter what anyone says, the MINI is not a quiet car. With that said, loudness comes from a variety of sources:

Aftermarket exhaust, aftermarket headers, noisy tires, interior rattles and squeaks. You can quiet the car interior using sound deadening material but it will never be a Lexus.

I don't have the loudest MINI, but it's far from quiet. With my noise cancelling headset..talking to me on a cell phone while I drive is like standing next to a jet engine. Turn off the engine and park, and it's like I've entered a sound proof chamber. The difference is that great.

I really don't mind the noise however. I can still plainly hear my supercharger whine as well as the chattering of my worn axle bearings along with all the noise. As soon as I drive over smooth pavement, the sound reduction is also night and day, so the roads make a huge difference as well.