[dhanley]

I have a '97 328i right now. I test drove a mini cooper ( with sport package ) and liked it, lots of fun, if a little underpowered next to the 2.8L 6. But no matter, i liked it. It has that go-kart feeling BMW has gradually been losing over time.

If i got the mini, it'd likely be in chicago. Does anyone have a good sense of what it might be like to move from potholed streets in the 328i ( tolerable ) to a mini cooper?

I'd love to hear from people who moved from a 3 to a mini!

dave

[ScottyHP]

I have moved from a 320 coupe to a MINI Cooper, my 3 was lowered and had 17" wheels. The Cooper I have ordered will have SS+ and 17" like the one I test drove (a few times!!!) and to be honest I thought the ride was slightly softer. I asume you have got a saloon (4 door) 3 so by taking the fact you may have sports suspension set up and 17" wheels the jump from your 3 to a MINI will be a little much more noticable the MINI will probably be a little firmer.

[AidenL]

I own a 01 323Ci, with sports suspension and 17" wheels. Id have to say that on bumpy roads, with potholes & country roads with roughish surfaces the MINI is much harsher - the MINI has 15" wheels and standard suspension. The first time I drove the MINI, I thought it was harsh, however, over time, Im becoming more used to it! Maybe its acceptance that it will never be as smooth as the BMW. Its not filling-rattling, just harsher, maybe even you could call it a sportier feel. On smooth roads, its perfect, you would hardly notice the difference between the cars ride.

Initially, I was afriad the BMW would be harsh too, having moved from a 318iS with 16" wheels, and SS, but the 323, being a little heavier I guess, proved to be even more comfortable, on the bigger, lower profile tyres.

Maybe I should upgrade the wheels on the MINI!!??

[M]

Living in Albuquerque and buying in Chicago! wow, thats a long trip for a service! MINI will never be the same ride as a 3 due to the length of the wheel base, definitely harsher, perhaps lumpier is the word, the MINI bounces more. A 330Ci and an M3 i've been using last few days are both harder but less bumpy so feel smoother. MINI on SS+ and 17"s definitely moves more on the road at speed but doesn't jar any more than a 3 certainly doesn't rattle or shake.

[MiniMike]

I have a 2000 Z3 2.8 with the 17" BBS wheels. I'm guessing my Cooper S will ride similarly. Anyone want to compare these two (I get my test drive a week from Thursday).

BTW, by my calculations, these two cars have a really similar power-to-weight ratio

[cas]

I currently own a 323SEi 1999 V and the Mini Cooper.

Until I purchased the mini I thought the handling of the BMW was excellent. Since owning the mini the BMW feels like a "Wallowing pig" in comparison and requires far more respect when cornering. I am comparing with the mini and believe that for a family saloon the BMW would hold its own against any other.

Having said this, for comfort, power and braking, the BMW is far superior and would always be first choice for any long distance or motorway driving. The mid range performance is very good.

The two cars are a perfect mix for day to day motoring and both provide a fun factor although quite different.

The BMW 3 series suspension is very capable on any road condition and it would be difficult to find better for the money.

Why not buy both and be spoilt for choice?

P.S I understand that the Z3 is due to be replaced in 2003 and therefore, it may be wise to wait for the Z4.

[AidenL]

cas,

I agree with everything you say, the two cars are perfectly complimentary....the BMW is supremely capable for any long journey, but for fun, the MINI wins hands down!!

I loved the BM till the MINI came, but now I only drive the MINI at weekends, which my wife hates, cos I use up all her petrol !!

I consider myself very lucky to have access to both these cars.....

[dhanley]

hah!

Yes i do live in albuqueruqe, and there is no mini dealer here. The nearest one is about 400 miles, i think. I'm moving to chicago soon though, hence my living here and looking there.

My 328i is actually non sport package and has the stock 15' rims. I may be a wuss, but the roads in abq are pretty bad and they're even worse in chicago. I like hitting lousy surfaces and not really noticing.

I definitely felt like the mini was a more fun handler ( i could slice through corners as well as a m3 or m roadster ) and i loved its looks, the hatch, etc. It's tough; i'd love one, but in chicago my 328 is as harsh as i'd like to live with. Now if i end up moving to california.....

I appreciate all the replies. I'm enviouis of all of you guys! If i do get one it'll be over a year from now ( i'm returning to grad school in the fall--yikes! ).


dave