[mini_obsessed]

I am looking for a new mini cooper to buy and currently have 2 options.

To order an R56 mini cooper

or to buy an R52 mini cooper convertible with 3000 € more.

Currently, i am a little bit confused with the changes of the new model against the old
one.

What are the pros and cons of the new model against the old model, and which one should i go for?

Should I take in account that the convertible will be replaced in the near future (anyone knows when?) by a new model?


Really confused...

[minigolf]

If it was me, I'd go the R56 Cooper.

Are both cars going to be brand new? If that's the case, then maybe it's a toss a coin affair.

[mini_obsessed]

Yes, they are both new.

The r56 will be delivered 3 months after placing the order,
while the convertible one is a hyper blue, ready to be delivered (very tempting).

Its a tough choice.

[DaFlake]

There are quite a few changes from one model to another. The new MINI interior is different as is the engine. It was a pretty good overhaul but still a good looking car with a lot of nice features.

That being said, the only downside I can see to it is that the older model has a proven track record where the new car is still working out the "undocumented features" of the vehicle.

I would say that you need to drive them both to see which one you like the most.

[minicabrio]

If you fancy the convertible then go for it

If posisble though, borrow a demo car for 24 hours just to see if you like it - hard to believe really, but some people don't

They're both very good cars in their own way - just make sure the decision is right for you.

[mister.t]

Personally, Id go for the R56. Yes there are bad points - Gearbox groans and Bonnet alignments etc, but many of these have been ironed out - Even the 1st problem seems like a MCS only problem. The new R56 is more refined, and I believe, a slightly more rounded vehicle. Ive had both, and have no regrets about going R56. Good luck in whatever you choose

[Tigger, Eeyore & Roo]

Please look around the Forum as there are many threads dedicated to the relative merits of the R50/52/53 and R56 and a lot of passionate feeling about it. I recently had the choice of a brand new R53 or a brand new R56 (at virtually the same price). For me, there was absolutely no contest and I now have a new R53.

For every one like me, there is someone else who feels the exact opposite and that's just fine. So look at the comparison threads and work out which you prefer as there doesn't seem to be a "right" answer to that question.

Probably of more significance is whether the soft top thing is for you; I suggest you take Minicabrio's advice and take the longest test drive you can. On the down side it is a little slower, a little less sharp to drive, there is less room in the back seat and boot and there's rubbish rear visibility. If none of that matters to you, there is nothing quite like driving a convertible for shear addictive fun value If you are an outdoors / fresh air freak then the sun doesn't even have to be shining either!

Good luck and please let us know what you decide to do.

Tigger.

[DaFlake]

Both models are AWESOME as they are MINI's. Whichever one chooses you, I am sure that you will be happy.

[Richard Crofts]

For me it would be a 53 convertible (or a cooper like you have the chance at)...especially in Greece They are reasonably tried and tested where the R56 has got some issues still being ironed out....however there are plenty on the roads that are doing great so don't let the scare stories put you off an R56 (different engine box and shell)

[minicabrio]

Quote: Originally Posted by Richard Crofts (original)

For me it would be a 53 convertible

Technically doesn't exist - all convertibles (including the S) are designated R52

[scone]

Go with the convertable it seems a shame to live in a sunny country like Greece and not enjoy open top motoring and Hyper blue is a really nice colour. The new model convertable should be around in 12-18 months time and if you want the new model, trade in and buy one. Your old car will have still held its value well and the all the niggles with new cars oily bits should be sorted.

[3rdpillar]

for my two penneth.

I have a wonderful R53, having had a MCC for a week whilst mine has some minor niggles sorted, i would say next car is

CooperS Convertable ( new style , whenever that is ), BOBW

[mini_obsessed]

Thanks everyone.

I am trying to find threads that spot the differences between 1st and 2nd Gen, but I am not very good at searching..
Can you provide any links to the threads that you think are important?

My local dealer does not provide a convertible for test drive so i can not test it.
I have seen the rear view and it is really bad but i think i am more keen about the convertible, as it seems more fun.

I hope there is still there when (if) i decide to go for it.

[minicabrio]

Quote: Originally Posted by mini_obsessed (original)

Thanks everyone.

I am trying to find threads that spot the differences between 1st and 2nd Gen, but I am not very good at searching..
Can you provide any links to the threads that you think are important?

My local dealer does not provide a convertible for test drive so i can not test it.
I have seen the rear view and it is really bad but i think i am more keen about the convertible, as it seems more fun.

I hope there is still there when (if) i decide to go for it.

This FAQ post should help you

http://www.mini2.com/forum/faq.php?f...ni_generations