Hi! I am ordering my MINI this week. I will be taking my MINI with me to and from work every day (15 miles roundtrip) and will take it on road trips from Connecticut to MAryland once a month plus other little trips. I am trying to keep the cost of the car down but I am wondering if I should spring the $500 for the 16" wheels? I have a basic model Saturn now, so the rougher ride probably won't be noticable to me. I think the 16" look better but am reading about the hassles of run-flats. I live in CT and am also thinking of getting snow tires. Is that necessary you think? And what do I need to know to oreder them? :smile:

 

17"

 

I have 15" wheels and the ride is pleasantly stiff but not "harsh", whatever that is. Honestly, if you're trying to save $$$s, IMHO the standard Cooper setup is very, very nice, and I wouldn't hesitate a second in resommending it. I wanted a spare tire, too (...had a bad incident once with some scrap metal that fell off a truck...long story.) I chose the 7-hole wheels for asthetic design purposes...personal preference and another topic. Follow your heart!!!!

 

I've driven Coopers with all three combos. If you aren't going
racing and just want to drive a nice handling, great little car go
for the 15s. I have a Cooper S and recently had a loaner with 15"
wheels and it was as much fun as a barrel of monkeys.....
So, if that saves you $500, buy me something nice!!!