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I've owned two, but years ago before the brand became the modern political equivalent of a Volvo or VW minibus. Both had issues with oil consumption and in one the engine camshaft actually broke. Also, like Volvos, they're a bore to drive.

Come December and the end of the lease on our current car we're looking at getting a small tow along to match with a camper and considering a Mini Clubman or Cooper (6 speed manual). I know that they're uniquely fun to drive and I was delighted to discover they're now being manufactured by BMW. Owners' reports are generally very positive. And to avoid being mistaken for a Liberal NRA and FOP stickers ought to suffice. If any Freepers have thumbs up or down experience with Mini's I'd appreciate hearing them.

Make sure it’s a Mini with the actual BMW engine. The Mini Cooper S engine is detuned so it won’t compete with the BMW 2-series.

My mother had a 2005 Cooper S hatchback and it was a reliable mix of fun and practicality, but once things started going on it, it was nickle-and-diming her to death... even the small stuff. She wanted to get a new one, but the was surreptitiously told by one of the techs that a new one (this was in 2015 or early 2016) would probably not be as trouble-free as the old one. Why he told her that, I have no idea.

She still pines for "my little clown car."

Mr. niteowl77