I can honestly see all sides of this discussion. I love my MINI and I can't really think of anything I would want to change about it. The demand has been so huge it does seem a bit hasty to go making any sort of drastic changes to the basic design. I understand the sentiment of wanting to keep this version around, as everyone on this forum loves it (apparently). Comparing this sentiment to the outright hatred some classic owners have shown towards the new MINI is not, IMHO, accurate. My guess is they hate the new MINI because it has better build quality, performance, and looks than the car they love so much. I suspect they do not hate the new MINI because they honestly think their classic is a better car, but exactly the opposite. Our thread starter here is merely making a case for keeping the car as it is for a while. I think that is a legitimate argument given the cars success. I can understand Paul's concern that the MINI might go the way of the new Beetle if no changes are made, but I also think the new Beetle had only unique appearance going for it. The MINI has appearance, performance and fun-driving factors the new Beetle couldn't dream of achieving, and IMO these factors will outlast some "fad", like the new Beetle. As for the new 2007 MINI, like others, I will reserve judgement until the final product can be accurately seen. Maybe the final design will, overall, improve the looks and performance of the car. Or, maybe it will be like most of our American cars and go faster but look pants. Or none of the above? Who knows? |