patrick.net

Why are you replacing the Volt?

Have you test driven a Mini?

BMW dealership staff will be like a family to you. You'll see them more often than your wife and kids.

Cars have always been my go-to passion.

I've built them, I've raced them, I've always done my own maintenance, and I read about them more than anything out there.

I recall reading periodic articles that show every car make in the USA ranked based on most annual trips to the dealer for repair.

Mini is consistently at the top of those lists...in good company with Land Rover.

Proceed with caution. If you want the best odds for low cost of ownership, look at your typical Toyota/Honda.

Straw Man says

BMW dealership staff will be like a family to you. You'll see them more often than your wife and kids.

100% on point. BMW ownership is like an extended nightmare that won't go away until you burn the car to the ground.

I will not allow another one in my family in this lifetime.

In favor of the BMW dealership, they really helped out my brother-in-law. They fixed his 535 after it caught fire, which was very nice of them.

I've had one for 10 years. What specifically do you want to know?

Coopers are great for squeezing into small parking spaces. If you need more space for family or whatnot, then go for the stylish Clubman or Countryman. Mini's have stiff suspensions so you will feel the road beneath you, but I don't know where you'd find a funner car to drive in the price range.

I have not had any major issues with repair with my mini after 10 years. It's a great car; very reliable, good power, good gas mileage, and is owned by BMW and basically has BMW parts internally.

It may not be the most practical car because of it's size, but I guarantee you Mini = Fun.

I bought my Infiniti G35 coupe when the mini c's first came to wide distribution in the US and The Italian Job was still fresh on everybody's mind. The g35 coupe spawned a bunch of meet ups and small car clubs dedicated to it. In those circles I remember discussing the mini c's a lot and they were quite highly regarded. Everything I've read since indicates they are a quality car. I think it's a fantastic city car due to size and ease of driving.

zzyzzx says

Why are you replacing the Volt?

Have you test driven a Mini?

(Haven't touched one)

My Volt is a lease and is maturing in a week, and I don't have a place to charge it anyway. I have enjoyed the car, and the HOV lane access is perfect for my commute. I live and work near public transportation so it's an option, although I'd have to alter my work patterns a bit.

The wife has an '08 Corolla, with low miles that she only uses for the dogs and groceries. I am thinking perhaps of driving the Mini (if I were to get one) for a few years, hand it off to her, and then get my own ride if still needed.

Indiana Jones says

I've had one for 10 years. What specifically do you want to know?

Really, anything like you've offered up. General satisfaction, reliability, comfort. Anything!
Do you prefer the Hardtops? Convertible? How do so many have so many different patterns in the paint jobs?

I like to buy products that are depreciated when I drive them off the lot.

The only path to wealth & immediate gratification!

I hear they can haul a load of gold bars, no problem!