Any BMW converts out there?

[Flew the Coupe]

Thanks for all the input, I have been out of town for a while. I ended up placing my order for an MCS!

I'm happy with the decision, we still have the mini van if we need room on a longer drive, and I really wanted something different to drive. It sounds like I will have no regrets. I do appreciate the lower cost to drive and maintain a Mini, my last purchase of run flats for the BMW ran almost $500 each

Once again, thanks for the input, it does make me feel better about my decision. Now, the wait...

[stilo16v]

I went from a r56 cooper to an e46 325ci, I do miss the mini's handling and economy but the bm feels more grown up and love the performance and sound the 6 cylinder makes.

[beken]

I'm going the other way. I was a GM lifer until recently. When my previous commuter car started having problems, I bought a MINI as my entry into the BMW family. The MINI is a daily high use commuter car and has been a very reliable car. In servicing, I like how the dealerships treat their customers. It was a big eye opener compared to our experience with GM, Chrysler, and Toyotas (previous cars we've owned). Our family car is now nearing end of life and my wife wants a 5 series.

[gary396]

As a new Mini owner (nearly) this is my first post so I hope I get this right!

Interesting thread as I've just ordered a Clubman D, trading in my BMW 320D which I know I'll miss. But I took early retirement a few months ago and the BMW isn't getting used as much as it used to. I've always enjoyed driving smaller cars and had the old Mini van for work many, many years ago. So I thought if I am going to change from the BMW - go for the Mini. As said I know I'll miss the BMW especially on long drives (not to mention rear wheel drive) but the Mini seems probably more enjoyable just "nipping about town" etc.

My wife currently drives a small car but is due to change it next year and we have the option of getting something a bit bigger as her car if we find 2 small cars aren't enough.

Seem to read mixed reviews about the diesel but after the BMW (being my first diesel) I'm a convert - I like the relaxed mid-range grunt. On the test drive the Mini obviously wasn't as quick but it wasn't bad either and seemed reasonably quiet. Time will tell if I've made the right decision!!!