I think it is the ability to "sustain the novelty", that makes Mini a desirable car.
Starting from new, by the time you select from the various pre-packaged options, then select a colour scheme, select a rim type and size, interior options and maybe add some decals and now the chances of having two identical cars on the street is pretty small.
Now when you see a Mini in the parking lot, on the street, on a run or a big weekend get together you find yourself studying the cars to see what that owner did to make this car their own, and you think I could something similar to that but with a difference.
You now find yourself back at the Mini parts department or on the internet searching through all the OEM and after market parts that are available to make your Mini even more unique and you have caught the "
mod-bug".
It is what you make it and speaking from experience I don't think you will be going back to an A to B car anytime soon.