Ah, yes, it's a 2010 Mini Cooper S Convertible. Please pardon the slightly uh...unique color. And unfortunately, the only one available was equiped with the automatic transmission, making it difficult to compare performance with the regular Mini we reviewed in a previous update.
Right. So right off the start, the Mini charm is still there as you can see. The handling, though there are some scuttle shake this being a convertible, is good, with the fast reflexes you would expect to find out of a Mini intact.
The "S" models are fitted with a 172hp turbocharged 4-cylinder, capable of propelling the little car to 60 in a factory claimed 7 seconds. We did not do any official tests, and while it seems possible, perhaps not with the one we had and not w/ the automatic. To be brutally honest, despite the noticably greater torque available off the line as compared with the standard Mini, the extra power was a bit underwhelming. It actually made it somewhat of a handful, as if you're not careful, stamping on the throttle on uneven pavement will send the sensation of a bucking rhino through your arms. I suppose that's sort of exciting... but I suspect having no idea where it will spew off will get old rather quickly. And maybe this particular car hasn't had such a loving life.
But really, that's just nitpicking. It's sunny California, and you're in a trendy convertible that's not rubbish. It even comes with what Mini calls an "Openometer," that keeps track of how long you go about topless. Ok, maybe thats a bit rubbish. But fun.
The top itself can be either opened completely, or opened 1/2 way, sorta like a sunroof. The way I see it though, some convertibles scream midlife crisis, or look at me! i'm a douche bag seeking attention! Or rental. The Mini's best part is it doesn't do any of that, and even if it did, you won't notice. The driving joy is still beyond anything else can bring. Well, anything else affordable at anyrate.
Yes, it's still a cute little car that is a hoot to drive. It is one of the best cheap convertibles we've driven, apart from maybe the Mazda Miata. Would I recommend it? Hmm... after all that considered, it would still be a tough decision. So yes, if you're in the market for a cute, joyful convertible. But actually no, if you really want the essence of the driving feel from a Mini. Good as it is, it's just nearly impossible to preserve the same feel in a car once you've chopped it's head off. And a definite no if you're gunna get it in this particularly uh...unique color.
7/10
