November 3, 2009 By Alison Lakin, Associate Editor
2008 MINI Cooper
DriverSide Overview
The original Mini Cooper was conceived of in 1957 in England at a time when gas prices had begun to soar as a result of the Suez Canal Crisis, and people feared that fuel gulping cars would be a burden on their already tightening pocketbooks. Ironically, 2008's car buyers are being faced with the same worries, making the rendition of the Mini Cooper all the more relevant in our changing economy. When it debuted in 2001, directly after production cessation of the original model, the Mini showed the U.S. market that small cars could still be fun and practical, especially in urban environments. Though it has been through some updates since then, with a moderate refresh for 2007, the Cooper remains a present-day icon with a sporty, go-kart-like drive, a unique exterior design and surprisingly roomy interior. Our needs for a small, fuel-sipping car will continue to grow, and the Mini will be there to answer our every demand.
What's to Like
The design, a modernized version of the well-loved original, is classic in its own right, blending styling techniques with the recognizable features of the past. Its 3 years or 36,000 miles of free maintenance will help reduce the overhead cost of owning a smart car, and its BMW build quality gives you reassurance about your Mini’s future.
What's Not to Like
The Mini’s über-customizable interior and exterior is wonderful, until you look at the price tag and realize that an armrest costs $250. The retro styling of the instrument panel chooses aesthetics over functionality, and button placement is unintuitive.
The Drive:
DriverSide Driving Impressions
The Cooper fires up gently after pushing the start button, engine humming quietly in anticipation of the drive. Its passive start belies the incredibly sporty nature of this hatchback, delivering the same Monte Carlo Rally winning performance of the past. A six-speed gearbox allows easy flicks through the gears and the car accelerates mightily considering its 1,150 pounds and 118 horsepower. Though it never feels underpowered, freeway passing might require dropping the Mini into a lower gear than normal to produce adequate pull. For an increased throttle response and quickened shifts, Sport mode, a button located next to the shift knob, does the trick. The Mini’s low “bulldog” stance makes up for its light weight and keeps the hatchback grounded as it corners around the tightest hairpins. Suspension can be a little rough around town as it’s suited for more aggressive driving, but get the Mini up to speed and you’ll feel how responsive it is, especially pared with the rigid body frame that reduces body roll around turns.
Engine and Drivetrain
The front-wheel drive Cooper is powered by a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 118 horsepower and 114 lb-ft of torque. It is ...
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