Issigonis, designer of the original Mini, reputedly stated, “I make my cars with such good braking, such good steering, that if people get into a crash it’s their own fault … I don’t design my cars to have accidents.” Imbued with this fusion of cockiness and sportiness, the Mini Cooper continues to, ever so slightly, superciliously beckon future drivers, begging them to try out its “such good braking, such good steering,” and such great fun.
Power & Performance
The base Cooper comes with a 1.6-liter 4-cylinder engine capable of 116-hp, which speeds the starting 2,701-lb vehicle demurely across the pavement. It is certainly not in a rush, but the Cooper does handle remarkably well. S versions of all trims sport a turbocharged 172-hp 4-cylinder, and the John Cooper Works uses a 208-hp engine, racing to 60-mph in nearly 6 seconds. Base models clock in at 8.5 seconds. Thanks to Issigonis, Minis come with a stiff suspension, superb for handling but uncomfortable for long leisurely drives. Those drives may also prove crowded for occupants in the cramped back seat.
Quirks & Bumbles
The Mini Cooper is, oddly, full of flaws. But on some level, these quirks and bumbles add to the Cooper’s charisma rather than detract. Cramped back seats, little rear visibility, a tiny trunk and odd interior controls may be the death knell for other vehicles, but for the Cooper, it is just part of the experience.
The Inside and Outside
All Coopers are available in coupe, convertible, and hatchback body styles. A retro-styled exterior, classically red, reminding viewers of a chubby baby face, shelters the quirky cabin. A/C, full power accessories, leatherette upholstery and a six-speaker stereo with CD, radio and auxiliary audio jack come standard. The convertible adds an expandable trunk, among other things, and the options roster sports a stiff and sport-tuned suspension, heated seats, audio system upgrades, automatic climate control, and practically every other worthwhile accoutrement.
The Mini Cooper is a one-of-a-kind experience. It makes no apologies for its oddities, which are many. For those that like the fringe, the Cooper is a godsend. Those interested in ergonomics, look elsewhere.
Read more about the 2009 Mini Cooper at: Consumer Guide Auto.
Pictures
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- Used Mini Cooper
- 2009 Porsche Boxster
- 2009 Pontiac Solstice
- 2009 Lotus Exige S260
- 2009 Porsche Cayman S
