2012 MINI Cooper Review

Performance
In terms of horsepower, the typical convertible packs quite a punch and will knock the MINI Cooper down a few rungs. On the flip side, bear in mind that high horsepower engines often command higher insurance premiums.

Handling
With their similar turning radii, the MINI Cooper and the typical convertible definitely handle almost the same into and out of tight spots.

Drivetrain
The average convertible has a more massive engine than the Cooper. Note that smaller engines typically get better gas mileage, but smaller engines can be stressed more. The average convertible packs quite a punch compared to the MINI Cooper with respect to torque, which is the force that lets you accelerate quickly. Torque equals pickup, and the average convertible will have picked up and gone by the time the MINI Cooper finally gets moving.

Utility
Drivers with frequent child-duty might favor the typical convertible over the Cooper. The average convertible is a better choice than the Cooper when it comes to hauling capacity, especially if you often need to carry a lot of suitcases or big dogs.

Convenience
You'll definitely have to take the MINI Cooper for a fill-up more often than the average convertible because of its tank size and fuel economy.

Comfort
While the front cabin in the typical convertible offers a bit more head room than the MINI Cooper, there honestly isn't much of a difference. While the rear of the MINI Cooper offers a bit more head- and leg-room than the average convertible, there really isn't much of a difference.

Dimensions
The average convertible is tremendously heavier than the MINI Cooper. Your wallet will hurt more every time you fill up the average convertible than the MINI Cooper because of its larger tank. The Cooper fits in smaller parking spaces than the typical convertible.

Cost
The destination charge is a standard charge for transporting the vehicle from its point of origin to the dealer. The MINI Cooper is considerably cheaper to get to the dealership than the average convertible. The average convertible consumes a lot of gasoline compared to the Cooper. The average convertible pales in comparison to the MINI Cooper with respect to fuel economy. When it comes to MSRP, the MINI Cooper costs tremendously less than the typical convertible. The MINI Cooper will save you a bundle at the pump every year compared to the average convertible. The average convertible will cost you a bundle in gasoline every year compared to the MINI Cooper.

Warranty
The basic after-sale protection that comes with the average convertible isn't quite as generous as the MINI Cooper's.