The entry-level Cooper relies on the fuel efficiency of a naturally aspirated, 118-hp version of the mill. Conversely, the Cooper S I tested is all about the impressive performance of its supercharged, 172-hp engine. The Cooper JCW (John Cooper Works), is the be-all and end-all of performance, powered by a fine-tuned version of the little mill kicking out 208 ponies.
The winding country road becomes essential driving when someone offers you the keys to one of these reputedly very manoeuvrable cars. Especially when you know the Cooper S’s mill has 192 ft-lb of torque in store for you at 1,700 rpm!
But first, you have to tame the interior layout. Easier said than done. The rpm counter behind the wheel and the over-size speedometer lording it over the centre dash are disconcerting. What’s more, a plethora of flip switches has joined the fray of push buttons, the lot of them so well integrated into the dash that they literally blend in.
Here is a car where you’re better off reading the owner’s manual BEFORE you start the engine.
Thrilling ride
Though the MINI is undeniably attractive, buyers are especially seduced by the driving experience – at first. With a 172-head stable, the power-to-weight ratio promises obvious road prowess. The 7 seconds needed to power from 0 to 100 km/h confirm the assumption.
Unfortunately, driving enjoyment is relative. The well-spaced 6-speed manual transmission isn’t as smooth as that of a Mazda MX-5. What’s more, the small 1.6-litre transverse engine does produce the anticipated torque steer. Though it’s a far cry from the second generation CR-X, slippery surfaces are better approached with a measure of humility.
As for ride comfort, with the sport suspension (optional) and low-profile, run-flat tires (205/45R17) the car deserves to be called a bone-shaker. Sweet memories of youth, to be sure, but at $36,350 a pop (options extra), the lack of comfort is tough to swallow.
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| The cockpit is attractive and comfortable. |
The winding country road becomes essential driving when someone offers you the keys to one of these reputedly very manoeuvrable cars. Especially when you know the Cooper S’s mill has 192 ft-lb of torque in store for you at 1,700 rpm!
But first, you have to tame the interior layout. Easier said than done. The rpm counter behind the wheel and the over-size speedometer lording it over the centre dash are disconcerting. What’s more, a plethora of flip switches has joined the fray of push buttons, the lot of them so well integrated into the dash that they literally blend in.
Here is a car where you’re better off reading the owner’s manual BEFORE you start the engine.
Thrilling ride
Though the MINI is undeniably attractive, buyers are especially seduced by the driving experience – at first. With a 172-head stable, the power-to-weight ratio promises obvious road prowess. The 7 seconds needed to power from 0 to 100 km/h confirm the assumption.
Unfortunately, driving enjoyment is relative. The well-spaced 6-speed manual transmission isn’t as smooth as that of a Mazda MX-5. What’s more, the small 1.6-litre transverse engine does produce the anticipated torque steer. Though it’s a far cry from the second generation CR-X, slippery surfaces are better approached with a measure of humility.
As for ride comfort, with the sport suspension (optional) and low-profile, run-flat tires (205/45R17) the car deserves to be called a bone-shaker. Sweet memories of youth, to be sure, but at $36,350 a pop (options extra), the lack of comfort is tough to swallow.
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| The trunk is, shall we say, minimalist. |