2003 MINI Cooper S Road Test

"Where else can you get such a peppy car with tons of standard features, xenon headlights, a supercharged engine and BMW technology for so little?" (Photo: Alexandra Straub, Canadian Auto Press)

When a guy asked me how much the MINI Cooper S costs, he was a little thrown off by the price. I then asked him, "Where else can you get such a peppy car with tons of standard features, xenon headlights, a supercharged engine, and a vehicle enhanced with BMW technology for so little?" He agreed. The base price of the MINI Cooper S is $29,950. The price as tested, including the optional sports package ($1,500) that comes with DSC II (Dynamic Stability Control), foglights, and the 17-inch S-Spoke alloy wheels is $31,450. I agree, it's not the most modest price tag but it is well worth it. If you're contemplating buying the Cooper S but are holding back from sticker shock, I say buck up because you'll have no regrets.

During my week with the Cooper S, all I had was fun. I loved seeing people's faces light up with a smile when I drove down the street. I loved the positive feedback from drivers on the road, and I must admit I loved all the attention. The MINI makes its owner stand out in a crowd and that is, for me, an essential part of buying a car. It targets the young and old, tall and short. It's a remarkable vehicle that definitely lifts the spirit. It just might change your life.

Specifications:

• Price Range (MSRP):$29,950- $42,885
• Body Type: 2-door hatchback, steel unibody
• Layout: front engine, FWD
• Engine: 163 hp, 155 lb-ft, 1.6-L, 16-valve, SOHC, supercharged I-4
• Transmission: 6-spd manual
• Brakes: disc/disc, ABS and EBD
• Seating Capacity: 4
• Cargo Volume (seats folded): 670 L (23.7 cu ft)
• Curb Weight: 1,215 kg (2,430 lb)
• Fuel Economy (city/hwy):9.6 / 6.5 L/100km
• Warranty (mo/km):48/80,000 comprehensive
• Competitors: Dodge SRT-4, Ford Focus SVT, Honda Civic SiR, MazdaSpeed Protegé, Mercedes-Benz C230 Coupe, Nissan Sentra SE-R, Subaru Impreza WRX, VW Golf GTI
• Web Site: www.mini.ca