As with the previous-generation Cooper Convertible, the cabin is host to the occasional squeak and rattle, not a big deal if you consider that a droptop isn’t as rigid by design as its fixed-roof counterpart.
Competition
The MINI Cooper Convertible starts at $29,950 for the base 118-hp version. The JCW Convertible, however, starts at a pretty steep $44,400. Our test car also includes the hood stripes and mirror caps, interior chrome trim, a Hi-Fi sound system, intelligent key system (which also allows remote top lowering), Bluetooth and USB/iPod connection as well as leather for a grand total of $48,350. Ouch.
The John Cooper Works version’s rivals are:
BMW 128i Cabriolet, $39,900
Ford Mustang GT Convertible, $41,699
Mazda MX-5 GT, $39,995
Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder GT-P, $37,798
Nissan 370Z Roadster, $46,998
Volkswagen Eos 2.0 TSI, $36,575
Conclusion
There are obviously very interesting choices for $40,000 when it comes to sport-oriented convertibles and the MINI Cooper may seem expensive (and it is). And it might be a little too powerful for its own good.
If you’ve never driven a MINI though, you might not realize how high the car’s giggle factor is. It’s a blast to drive and a fashion statement all in one. Still, we suggest checking out a base Cooper Convertible that’s almost $15K cheaper; it might not be as speedy as the JCW, but it’s about as nimble and amusing. Sorry John.
photo:Michel Deslauriers
Competition
The MINI Cooper Convertible starts at $29,950 for the base 118-hp version. The JCW Convertible, however, starts at a pretty steep $44,400. Our test car also includes the hood stripes and mirror caps, interior chrome trim, a Hi-Fi sound system, intelligent key system (which also allows remote top lowering), Bluetooth and USB/iPod connection as well as leather for a grand total of $48,350. Ouch.
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| The JCW Convertible is a blast to drive and a fashion statement all in one. |
The John Cooper Works version’s rivals are:
BMW 128i Cabriolet, $39,900
Ford Mustang GT Convertible, $41,699
Mazda MX-5 GT, $39,995
Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder GT-P, $37,798
Nissan 370Z Roadster, $46,998
Volkswagen Eos 2.0 TSI, $36,575
Conclusion
There are obviously very interesting choices for $40,000 when it comes to sport-oriented convertibles and the MINI Cooper may seem expensive (and it is). And it might be a little too powerful for its own good.
If you’ve never driven a MINI though, you might not realize how high the car’s giggle factor is. It’s a blast to drive and a fashion statement all in one. Still, we suggest checking out a base Cooper Convertible that’s almost $15K cheaper; it might not be as speedy as the JCW, but it’s about as nimble and amusing. Sorry John.
photo:Michel Deslauriers
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