Author Topic: New Mini convertible (Read 3279 times)

84im · « **on:** November 06, 2004, 01:20:40 pm »

I've read a few previews on the new Mini convertible and I went to their website to have a look. Built-up a beautiful, dark grey Cooper S. Even with cloth seats and no navi it priced out at $39,000. A very neat looking little car, but cheap it is not. I'd consider buying one (probably used), down the road, if the quality control has improved. Anyone out there ordered one yet?
Ron

wing · « **Reply #1 on:** November 06, 2004, 03:55:48 pm »

$39,000

? WHOLLY !!!

That's WAY too much for that car IMO.

WW · « **Reply #2 on:** November 06, 2004, 04:08:22 pm »

$39,000. Hmmmmmm. Just think of all the other alternatives.

84im · « **Reply #3 on:** November 12, 2004, 10:33:03 pm »

Really.... what? Maybe used, but new? What new convertible could you buy for 40k that woulb be better? Ron

inco · « **Reply #4 on:** November 13, 2004, 07:00:19 am »

Miata and Mustang both cost less.

Both have better engines and one has much more power. Both might have less problems too unless the quality of the Mini has dramatically improved.

Fun factor and novelty would still give the Mini an edge but that's about it. Ok and seating if you compare Miata.

tpl · « **Reply #5 on:** November 13, 2004, 08:23:33 am »

A 2nd hand Miata and a 2nd hand Impreza for Winter ought to come to 39k$

Or going the other way..... $39K and some payments for a nearly new 330Ci or with even more payments a not quite so new M3 convertible or a Boxster

84im · « **Reply #6 on:** November 13, 2004, 05:55:29 pm »

Now we're talking used, and that's a whole different ball of wax. If I had a choice between a new Mini S and a used 20002001 Boxster (which goes for around 40k out here on the West coast) I'd go for the Boxster. But for now I'm happy to drive around in my Monster Miata (Ford 302 motor).
Ron

barrie1 · « **Reply #7 on:** November 13, 2004, 11:12:18 pm »

A man after my own heart, putting a V8 into a Toy. That ought to be a real fun ride. How come the Ford engine instead of the Chev which most folks use. Just curious.

davidm · « **Reply #8 on:** November 14, 2004, 12:18:40 pm »

Barrie, most V8 conversions for Miatas are Ford 302s. In particular, 84im's car is one of the 9 Cardiac Cobra conversions.

barrie1 · « **Reply #9 on:** November 14, 2004, 02:43:21 pm »

I know some of the builders use the Ford drivetrains in the Toy cars but the Chev is used more often then the small Fords. They probably slipped it in like the Sunbeam Tiger with the 260 engine years ago. That would be very quick even with only the little Ford in it. I wonder how much change on the Handling with the extra weight of the engine. Got to effect it somewhat.

wing · « **Reply #10 on:** November 14, 2004, 06:34:12 pm »

Probably because Mazda is owned by Ford

barrie1 · « **Reply #11 on:** November 14, 2004, 08:55:51 pm »

That makes sense with their Race Kits for sure but unfortunately not the best engine for the purpose. The 302 is a decent little engine but for more improved performance I'd take the small block Chevie in it everytime.

mark · « **Reply #12 on:** November 16, 2004, 12:27:36 pm »

"but for more improved performance I'd take the small block Chevie in it everytime."

Headline news, Barrie shocks the world with statement way out of left field!

mrthompson · « **Reply #13 on:** November 16, 2004, 12:39:37 pm »

I guess they decided to swap out the Chevy drivetrain for something better.

Sorry, Barrie...couldn't resist.

safristi · « **Reply #14 on:** November 16, 2004, 01:31:46 pm »

WOW !!! a 2 Horse-power increase....GM is gettin' feisty with their new Buick Odure..!!!

Drivesideways · « **Reply #15 on:** November 16, 2004, 01:45:00 pm »

I've never seen an Amish limo before.

barrie1 · « **Reply #16 on:** November 16, 2004, 09:17:05 pm »

Can you imagine 300 horses pulling that Citation, I wonder how miles to the Bale they get with that car. At least you get useful exhaust from this model.