New Car: Cooper v Cooper S

[roltster]

Hi all,

I'm new to the whole Mini thing and I've been doing my research, however, I wanted views from actual Mini drivers rather than an editorial in a magazine or online.

I'm due to be buying a Mini and I really can't decide whether to go for the standard Cooper or the Cooper S. I'm not a massive petrol head but I do like the body shape of the S rather than the standard hatch.

Apart from the obvious (S has higher insurance, tax, etc) what are the real differences. Specifically on cost? Is it really worth paying the extra for an S?

For example I was told the other day that the cost of replacing a tyre on the S was a lot more.

Any feedback would be great.

Thanks

[iain cooper]

I would say briefly that the bottom line is whether or not you would enjoy and would use the extra power that the S gives you, in other words if your appreciate the "driving experience"

as you have said everything about the S is more expensive than a cooper, so you need to be prepared to pay for your extra fun !!

the cooper is fun to drive but could not be described as "fast", whereas in my opinion the S is "fast" and a well driven S would keep up with the majority of cars on the road.

you pays your money and makes your choice !!

Iain

[hernibles]

Since you asked, here are my costs (excluding depreciation) for my 2008 R56 MCS for the last year.

Expect 30-35mpg from an S (if you aren't that low then it's not being used for the intended purpose!)

IMO just over £200/month is a bargain.

[you may have the impression I am slightly data obsessed. You would be correct]

[Ryanjdover]

I would say that you should get the S as you'll grow to love it BUT I say the owning an S really does put the "owner" into ownership. If your willing to pay the cash then go ahead but ultimately if you are just after a regular runner that's a bit of fun then just get the cooper


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[Macguyvic]

Get the S and you won't be sorry. The S is the most fun car I have owned! The S uses run Flat tires which is why the tires are higher priced.

[Ryanjdover]

Quote: Originally Posted by Macguyvic (original)

Get the S and you won't be sorry. The S is the most fun car I have owned! The S uses run Flat tires which is why the tires are higher priced.

If you want cheaper tyres though you can ditch the run flats and carry a can of tyre weld and air compressor


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[UtilityGuy]

Get the S, S stands for Super Sporty Speed! i've clocked my S at the 140mph on a private road,

[roltster]

thanks for this all.

Really helpful.

One more question. Which would you say is the most popular colour? I quick like red however, would there be an issue when reselling as it isn't as popular as I think?

[Ryanjdover]

Personally I'd have a red one if I could choose but if you want to think about resale then I'd be looking at midnight black, Astro black and eclipse grey. Can't go wrong with those...I have Astro black myself!


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[UtilityGuy]

Its all about personal choice, I would have liked a Silver one but I went for the white one due to work reasons as my one is an advertising car,

[The Nun]

You could get a standard Cooper and have the Sports body kit fitted? almost the same in looks??