Space saver spare wheel

[stephenfroude]

I've been thinking about adding the spare wheel to my Mini I'll be collecting in March but seem to recall being told that this option is not available with the 17" alloys I'm getting. Is this correct? Could sombody tell me where the spare is stored and how much room it takes up? Any images would be a bonus.

I've also been told that the run flat tyres are expensive to replace (more so that normal tyres) and normal tyres give a better ride. Is this true?

TIA

[MINIAC]

The space saver spare is fitted underneath the boot on a Cooper or One [it can't be fitted on the 'S' because of the battery box under the boot]. The space saver spare is mounted on a 15" rim but can be used with 16" or 17" wheels and tires, to get you to a repair shop.

I think US spec Coopers come with a space saver spare. I thought you could order this as an option in the UK if you had larger factory wheels fitted.