I've got a Cooper now, handles really well but is a bit gutless until you get past 4000rpm.
I also ditched run flats and have the mobility kit in the boot (tyre sealant, compressor etc..) won't help if you get a cut tyre or dented wheel though.
Handling in the wet is interesting to say the least though, they do understeer in the wet but you get so much feel from the chassis it's easy to drive around it.
Only downside of having the Cooper is all the grief you get off your mates asking why you didn't get the 'S'!

 

Done a bit of digging and it would appear that there MAY be a warranty issue if I replace the tyres with anything other than the recommended run flats, typical.

As the wife's car is only 6 months old I think I'll double check directly with the stealer before I do anything else.

 

This WILL invalidate your warranty!

 

And they'll tell you its not an issue. There's so much hype surrounding the subject that people believe in the folklore.

 

Despite what anyone says or what "folklore" I read I shall be checking with the stealer first just in case. Would be a tad foolhardy not to really.

 

Not driven a new one but having just been to the classic car show I have a real deep seated urge to get an original.

Fantastic

 

Which is precisely what I did, hence the comment.

 

I appreciate what you're saying and hopefully that's the response I'll get when I ask.

Perhaps my reticence is due to the differing levels of service I've had from different dealers. Allow me to clarify that a little....

Question: Is the MkII Mini in a lower VED band than the MkI?
Local Dealer Response: No
Out of Town Dealer Response: Yes

Question: Is there a noticeable difference in performance between a Cooper S and a Cooper S Works?
Local Dealer Response: No
Out of town dealer response: Yes

Question: Can my wife have a test drive of a Cooper S and Cooper S Works please?
Local dealer response: No, only the sales manager is allowed to drive the Cooper S Works
Out of town dealer response: Which one would you like to try first madam?

 

Best ask your 'out of town' dealer then.

 

You'll find a scooby owner with good fuel consumption before you find a Mini dealership thats any good... They are all next to useless!

 

I had a JCW Cooper S and sold It after 2 months. The car was OK very quick sounded superb on full chat and handled like a go-kart ( I had Coilovers though ) They've just got this girls Image attached to them. It felt like people in other high performance cars were laughing at you.. Maybe that's just my paranoia


My JCW...

 

If you're that worried about what others think of you, then you're going to struggle with any vehicle you drive. Remember, opinions are like arseholes - everyone's got one.

Re. mikee's comments I have to say that although largely he's correct there are some good/knowledgeable dealers out there but you need to work hard to track them down but with the economy as it is I reckon the only companies that will survive will be customer focused so the chaff should be separated from the wheat...