Cooper's Class Proves Well Worth Waiting For

Summary

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Few cars in recent times have provoked such a frenzied buying rush as the Mini Cooper. First unveiled in 2001, the car's waiting lists grew ridiculously long and models were changing hands at a premium well above the retail price. As production was ramped up to cope, the waiting times fell and the Cooper and Cooper S variants remained hot tickets. Used buyers can now get hold of a Cooper model at sensible prices but how well does it stack up second time round?

Despite its unashamedly retro appeal, the Mini has some reassuringly modern foundations. Clamber underneath and you'll spot BMW's Z-axle multi-link rear suspension. There's a wrap-around glasshouse with glazed-in side pillars featuring fully flush panes. This creates a 'floating-roof' effect which is emphasised by the Cooper's options of having the roof painted in black or white. There's a lot of chrome around the front end, but if you want a more subtle effect, it's possible to have the Mini de-chromed. There's even the option of having bonnet stripes painted on. The Steptronic CVT gearbox, as seen on the MG TF, is now available with steering wheel mounted paddles.

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Cooper's Class Proves Well Worth Waiting For

The Park Lane special edition came in one colour - Royal Grey metallic. Along with this came Park Lane leather and interior trim as well as Park Lane decals, a silver roof, two-tone sports leath...

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