You’ll always have a soft sport for the car you were driving when you met your high school sweetheart… And that soft spot is the same reason we’re so willing to overlook the nonexistent comfort of the Austin Mini.
Some things never change. The modern MINI is an eloquent testament to that fact. They may have altered the spelling, but BMW’s wizards have so faithfully reproduced the charm of the little soapbox that it remains a bone-shaker to this day.
The 2009 Cooper S Convertible that we tested nevertheless had everything it takes to surprise both the buyer and the casual onlooker. Seductive lines, becoming cabin, powerful engine, attractive price – you name it, it’s got it.
Oh-so-desirable
Like the New Beetle, the MINI banks on a cleverly crafted and successfully cultivated myth. Alec Issigonis, father of the Mini, had originally created it for the common masses. The manufacturer nevertheless managed to transform the lowly maid into a princess designed for well-to-do buyers big on personal gratification. After all, don’t people choose a MINI to stand out from everyone else, motorists, neighbours, friends and work colleagues alike?
To do so, the original concept had to be dusted off and given a modern twist. The populist shrimp of my youth wouldn’t appeal to the target consumer of the 21st century. The body, for instance, has grown a good 20 centimetres to increase occupant comfort. The new architecture, the engine and the arsenal of active and passive safety systems have more than doubled its masse.
Different versions are coming fast and furious as well. After the launch of a first convertible in 2004, we’ll soon be treated to a small coupe (likely a two-seater) and a sturdy looking crossover. Myths need to evolve to survive.
The terrible three
For 2009 the maker of the modern MINI, BMW, is offering three very stylish versions of the convertible. All share a small, 1.6-litre, 4-cylinder, direct injection engine developed by Peugeot.
Some things never change. The modern MINI is an eloquent testament to that fact. They may have altered the spelling, but BMW’s wizards have so faithfully reproduced the charm of the little soapbox that it remains a bone-shaker to this day.
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| The Cooper S Convertible is like a time machine. The myth has been given a modern twist to appeal to well-to-do, nostalgic drivers. |
The 2009 Cooper S Convertible that we tested nevertheless had everything it takes to surprise both the buyer and the casual onlooker. Seductive lines, becoming cabin, powerful engine, attractive price – you name it, it’s got it.
Oh-so-desirable
Like the New Beetle, the MINI banks on a cleverly crafted and successfully cultivated myth. Alec Issigonis, father of the Mini, had originally created it for the common masses. The manufacturer nevertheless managed to transform the lowly maid into a princess designed for well-to-do buyers big on personal gratification. After all, don’t people choose a MINI to stand out from everyone else, motorists, neighbours, friends and work colleagues alike?
To do so, the original concept had to be dusted off and given a modern twist. The populist shrimp of my youth wouldn’t appeal to the target consumer of the 21st century. The body, for instance, has grown a good 20 centimetres to increase occupant comfort. The new architecture, the engine and the arsenal of active and passive safety systems have more than doubled its masse.
Different versions are coming fast and furious as well. After the launch of a first convertible in 2004, we’ll soon be treated to a small coupe (likely a two-seater) and a sturdy looking crossover. Myths need to evolve to survive.
The terrible three
For 2009 the maker of the modern MINI, BMW, is offering three very stylish versions of the convertible. All share a small, 1.6-litre, 4-cylinder, direct injection engine developed by Peugeot.
 |
| With 172 hp, the 4-cylinder turbo engine of the Cooper S ensures a great power-to-weight ratio. |