Overview & Reviews

In 1959, a groundbreaking new, boxy subcompact coupe emerged in England using a transverse-mounted engine and a space efficient front-wheel-drive layout. Within its tiny footprint it provided a surprising amount of usable space for people and packages. Because it was affordable, stylish, fun to drive and easy to park anywhere, the British Mini and sportier Mini Cooper quickly achieved icon status around the world -- including the U.S., where it sold as a brief counter-culture favorite during the 1960s.

After a lengthy break, the Mini Cooper returned to our shores in 2002 under BMW's direction to resurrect the legend. Through the course of three generations, new Minis have provided a uniquely sporting blend of classic British mini-car heritage and charm with precise German engineering and construction. New or used, however, you will find that a Cooper's price can rise very quickly if it has a lot of optional equipment installed. Then again, that abundance of available features is what makes a Mini a Mini. It's a pleasant dilemma to be faced with as no matter how you equip one, a Cooper hatchback or convertible is one of the most satisfying and fun subcompacts for the price.

Current Mini Cooper
The front-wheel-drive Mini Cooper is available in two-door hatchback and convertible body styles, both of which seat four people. The 2014 model year marks a fully redesigned, third generation of the hatchback. It's slightly larger and roomier than before and also features a pair of new engines. The convertible lags behind and is essentially carried over from last year.

The Mini Cooper hatchback comes with a turbocharged 1.5-liter three-cylinder engine good for 134 horsepower. The Cooper S hatchback boasts a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 189 hp. A six-speed manual transmission is standard and a six-speed automatic is optional for both models. With any combination, fuel economy is very good.

The Cooper convertible, being of the previous generation, has a 121-hp, 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine. The Cooper S convertible comes with a turbocharged 1.6-liter rated at 181 hp. There's also a John Cooper Works convertible with a higher-performance version of the turbo 1.6-liter producing 208 hp. Transmission choices are the same as for the hatchback. Fuel economy is worse with the base engine, but about the same with the S.

The Mini Cooper manages to please a wide variety of drivers, from penny-wise to thrill-seeking. Thanks to its two body styles, comprehensive options and bold interior and exterior design options, there is a seemingly infinite combination of personalized Minis. Each model -- Cooper, Cooper S and John Cooper Works (JCW) --- is essentially defined by the engine that powers it and the size of its wheels. However, slight variations in equipment exist.

All Mini Cooper hatchbacks are equipped with air-conditioning, Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity and iPod integration. The S hatchback is further outfitted with a more powerful engine, larger wheels, foglights and sport seats. There is an abundance of options that vary according to body style and trim level, but include various wheels, sport-tuned and/or adjustable suspension, a rearview camera, an automated parking system, a dual-pane sunroof, parking sensors, cloth or leather upholstery, a navigation system, smartphone app integration, automatic climate control, heated front seats, keyless ignition and entry and a premium Harman Kardon audio system.

The Cooper convertible is equipped similarly to the Cooper hatchback and adds a full power convertible top that includes a partial-open "sunroof" feature. The Cooper S convertible likewise adds performance-themed perks similar to those of the Cooper S hatchback. The John Cooper Works convertible includes an even more powerful turbo engine, upgraded Brembo brakes and an aerodynamic body kit. An even firmer suspension can also be fitted to the John Cooper Works.

In reviews of the redesigned Mini Cooper and Cooper S hatchbacks, we found the model's larger and more sensibly designed interior to be a noticeable improvement. Though its rear seat is still small, occupants gain almost an inch of legroom and a full 3 inches of shoulder room. Luggage and cargo room also grow noticeably. As before, the hatchback has an engaging personality thanks to its nimble handling and quick performance. The trade-off is still a firm ride and occasionally raucous cabin environment, but overall, the essential elements that gave the Mini its mojo from the get-go are still present and well accounted for.

The yet-to-evolve Cooper convertibles are still worthwhile for all the reasons we liked them in the first place: distinctive styling, peppy performance and the remarkably useful "sunroof in a convertible" full-power soft top. Also, the convertible is the only way to get the most powerful John Cooper Works engine in 2014. On the other hand, the drop top retains the traditional, pie-sized center-mounted speedometer and less sensible control layout. The backseat is also very small and rearward visibility is poor.

Used Mini Cooper Models
The Mini Cooper hatchback's second generation spanned from model year 2007-'13. For the Cooper convertible, Mini offered it starting in 2009 up to the present. This second-generation hatchback and convertible were available as a base Cooper, turbocharged Cooper S and, starting for 2009, the high-output turbocharged Cooper John Cooper Works (JCW).

The goal in this redesign was an evolutionary one, as befitting an icon. Though scarcely looking different from the first-generation model, the Mini Cooper's mechanicals were updated and many shortcomings were addressed. Notably, the ride was improved, build quality strengthened, cabin noise quelled, the steering effort at low speeds was lightened and all-new engines boasted more refinement and much better fuel economy.

Originally, the Cooper came with a 1.6-liter four-cylinder that produced 118 hp. The Cooper S featured a turbocharged version of the same engine that produced 172 hp. JCW versions were rated at 208 hp. For 2011, the base Cooper's output rose to 121 hp and the turbocharged S to 181 hp. A six-speed manual transmission was standard and a six-speed automatic was available (except on the JCW until 2013).

Base models were well equipped with a selectable Sport setting for steering and accelerator response, full power accessories with auto up/down windows (after '08), air-conditioning, leatherette premium vinyl upholstery, multicolor mood lighting, a tilt-and-telescoping leather-wrapped steering wheel, a trip computer and a six-speaker stereo with a CD player and auxiliary audio jack. The Cooper S added a turbocharged engine, firmer suspension, sport seats and foglights. Base and S convertibles were outfitted similarly.

Naturally, a wealth of optional features were available. Highlights included adaptive xenon headlights, automatic climate control, heated front seats, keyless ignition and entry, a Harman Kardon surround-sound audio system, Bluetooth phone connectivity and an iPod interface. Other options include different wheels, parking sensors, cloth or leather upholstery, a navigation system and a multitude of different interior trims and materials. As has been the case since the Cooper's debut, a multitude of dealer-installed features were additionally available.

In reviews of the time, we praised this Mini's spirited handling, thrifty fuel economy and excellent all-around performance in the Cooper S and JCW versions. Even the base Cooper, though, was still fun to drive. Downsides included a stiff and noisy ride, the car's very small backseat and illogical control layouts. The optional navigation system in particular wasn't especially user-friendly and hampered audio control.

There were other changes throughout this generation that shoppers of used Minis should be aware of. Bluetooth connection wasn't made standard across the line until 2013, but was optional from 2008 on. Prior to 2010, cruise control and a multi-function steering wheel were optional. And for 2007 and '08, stability control was an option. Should you see the names "Mini Camden" or "Mini Mayfair" in a used ad, these were a pair of special editions for 2010 that packaged some popular options with unique trim pieces, colors and a kitschy "Mission Control" system that featured a cast of in-car voices that responded to certain vehicle functions.

Prior to all of this, Mini sold the first generation of the modern Mini Cooper hatchback from 2002-'06. If you're looking for a Cooper Convertible from this era, they were sold from 2005-'08, while a 207-hp John Cooper Works edition arrived for 2005.

Those interested in this generation should be aware of some of the key differences between it and the current car. For starters, the standard Cooper had just 115 hp and wasn't refined so we wouldn't recommend it if you can avoid it. Secondly, Cooper S models were then supercharged (rather than today's turbocharged cars) and we'd recommend these, as they weighed in with a more forceful 163 ponies (or 168 for '05 on). Transmissions are also important to note. The Cooper came standard with a five-speed manual, while an optional continuously variable automatic did the car no favors. The Cooper S came standard with a six-speed manual, and starting in '05, a six-speed automatic with paddle shifters was optional.

Expect lively handling from either model, but be aware that the suspension setup of the Cooper S -- though enthusiasts will love it -- is even stiffer than the current model's. We would avoid those cars with wheels bigger than 16 inches. This Cooper also had much stiffer steering at slower speeds, but many have found it far more communicative and indicative of a go-kart than the current electric power steering.

Inside, this Cooper's various controls were much simpler and easier to use, but the cabin wasn't screwed together well -- almost every car suffers from frequent squeaks and rattles. While taller drivers will find plenty of leg room, there was no telescoping steering wheel available. The seats were also less comfortable.

Detail improvements and color changes carried the Mini Cooper through its first few years, so even early examples look up to date and can make particularly fine used car values. To keep things fresh and perky in 2005, Mini updated the Cooper's front and rear fascias, though it wasn't so significant that many should notice or care. More important to note are the addition of features for '04, like a more comfortable three-spoke steering wheel (versus the more classic two-spoke) and a digital speedometer mounted in the tachometer.

User Reviews:

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  I get MINI withdrawal .... - 2005 Mini Cooper
  By JennyK325 - February 2 - 2:36 am

  I bought my car used. It needed a tire speed sensor installed at 18,000 miles. Since then, it has been great. The first owner did not treat the car kindly. Other MINI owners wave or honk every time they pass. I look forward to driving my car. Its fun to take out on curvy roads, similar to driving a comfortable go-cart. I did have one passenger too large to fit in the car, but otherwise its big enough for everything else -- grocery shopping is not a problem, nor is transporting 3 teenage boys! The hatch lid hides whatever is in there providing extra security.

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  Ton-o-fun in a little package - 2004 Mini Cooper
  By KTs Cooper - January 31 - 10:00 am

  Lots of fun to drive this eye-catching car. Drives like an expensive BMW without the price tag.

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  Good Bang for the Buck - 2003 Mini Cooper
  By PJ - January 29 - 12:33 pm

  Without exception this is the best car I have ever owned. This automobile is solidly built, extremely well finished, and just pure fun to drive. I have owned a number of high end cars but none of them compare to this gem. Mini has the smartest marketing and support from the factory to the dealer, its a total winner.

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  top car - 2002 Mini Cooper
  By brady111 - January 29 - 10:00 am

  its a great car everyone should buy one. who ever dosent say its a 10.0 has problems.

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  Cooper S Convertible -Mini Mania Kits - 2007 Mini Cooper
  By JLS - January 25 - 12:23 am

  This is a really fun car to drive and turns a lot of heads. Performance is exceptional with the MINI mania HP upgrades. Borla exhaust is a little loud on extended trips. A few body fit problems noted and as yet dealer has not been able to fix. A couple of quality issues that you would not expect on a BMW product. One of the key remotes did not work-had to be replaced by dealer. Line to boost gauge pulled loose triggering all kinds of engine warnings. The car is fully loaded with all options so lots of fun things to play with. Performance and looks are real highpoints. Electric top has a few quirks but generally works very well. This is a fun ride!

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  2002 Black Mini Cooper - 2003 Mini Cooper
  By cg - January 22 - 2:00 am

  I love my car mainly because it is SO CUTE. Only problem to date is the trunk wouldnt close, but the dealer is very responsive and has fixed the problem. The ride is bumpy with run flat tires.

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  Mini Makes Sense - 2003 Mini Cooper
  By Stevesp - January 22 - 2:00 am

  Experience with the dealer and the car are perfect. Both lived up to their marketing promises and maintain a high standard you would expect from some Asian competitors. No gouging by the dealer and the car runs and performs flawlessly. I use the it to commute and it makes the drive interesting and more economical. Look at the Mini before you buy a domestic economy or Asian econo car. The other reviews here covered the fun part and I certainly agree with them.

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  One cool coupe! - 2005 Mini Cooper
  By Samuel Turner - January 20 - 10:00 am

  This has got to be the best car I have ever driven! The large speedometer is easy to read, quick steering, small steering wheel,no large blind spots,acceleration and accurate shifting.

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  GET TO BE GETTIN - 2005 Mini Cooper
  By MWO71 - January 20 - 10:00 am

  I BOUGHT MY COOPER S USED ITS A 03 WITH 15K MILES, I BOUGHT IT ON EBAY. ITS A GREAT CAR, I WANTED SOMETHING SPORTY BUT UPSCALE, WITHOUT IT BEING A KIDS CAR. ITS FAST OFF THE LINE ONCE THE SUPERCHARGER KICKS IN, AND PLENTY OF POWER IN EVERY GEAR. I PUT THE CHECKERED ROOF ON SO PEOPLE WILL SEE ME COMING, ITS A GREAT CAR AND I WILL BUY ANOTHER ONE. I HAVE A EMPLOYEE AT WORK WHO IS 68 AND 320 POUNDS. HE FITS WITH PLENTY OF ROOM LEFT.

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  Best Small Car in the World - 2002 Mini Cooper
  By st13scott - January 18 - 11:10 am

  Well I havent had my MINI Cooper S for very long, but it meets or exceeds every expectation I had for the car. How is it that MINI (Read BMW) can pack so much stuff into this price point but no one else can? Bi-xenon lamps in a car with a base price of $20,000! This can not be possible. Then you drive the car, its engine is smooth with a very linear feel to the power, especially considering that it is supercharged. Then you take your favorite corner and realize that it is going to be one of the most fun cars you will ever drive. Taking that corner at great speed, I had as big a smile on my face as I did the first time I hammered on a new 911 Turbo S. The moral of the story is stop reading buy a MINI Cooper S.