Mini Convertible 1.6 One Version

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Mini One Convertible with standard 1.6l engine

The Mini's success must have even surprised its BMW owners, the Mini, in all forms is still selling in huge numbers to eager buyers around the world. The phenomenon doesn't seem to be slowing down either, with Mini adding a funky cabriolet and a mild facelift across the entire range to keep interest high. The Cooper and Cooper S models are the biggest sellers but the base One is a cracking introduction to Mini ownership and can be had with a diesel engine too. The cabriolet delivers maximum summertime driving pleasure, and its neat folding roof is snug enough to make it a genuine all-year round proposition. With rumours of an estate version with wood trim aping the old Clubman Minis it seems that there's still plenty of room for expansion in the range too.

The current line-up has plenty of choice though already, the entry-level one offering a funky and relatively inexpensive entry point into the range. Start here and you'll not feel short changed,  the One really is a nice driving car, the ride and handling competent and composed. Sure, the 1.6-litre engine might lack the bigger bhp numbers of its Cooper relatives, but it counters this with easy accessible torque and a less frenetic driving experience. Surprisingly the One diesel disappoints, offering little improvement in economy over the entry-level petrol - unusual in this class. Faster Cooper and Cooper S versions are great fun, with numerous companies offering more go-faster solutions should you want to exploit the Mini's capable chassis even further. The cabriolet loses some of the ultimate driver involvement of its hatchback relatives, but the ability to drop its roof at the touch of a button more than makes up for this, and its even more compromised interior. All Minis lack space in the rear and the boot is tiny, but with great looks, huge character and comprehensive equipment and servicing it's hardly surprising it remains so desirable.

Auto Express March 2005   http://www.autoexpress.co.uk/roadtest/45877/mini_convertible.html

Article Date: Apr 01, 2005
Car Accociations: NEW_MINI
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