The 2012 Mini Cooper is a car for the times. A vehicle that is friendly to the environment and fun to drive, a winning combination in today’s world for sure. This is just an enjoyable car to drive, and it is quirky enough to appeal to those with a slightly off-kilter sense of style.
The Mini Cooper is “powered” by a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine that gives you 121 horsepower. It comes with a six-speed manual transmission but a six-speed automatic is optional. It will go from 0-60 in a respectable 8.4 seconds and has an EPA rating of 29/37 mpg. There is also a turbocharged version that gives you 181 horsepower and can go from 0-60 in 6.6 seconds, for those who want a little extra boost, and that will get 27/36 mpg.
Safety features include antilock disc brakes, stability control and front-seat airbags, with side curtain airbags standard in the hatchback trim. The convertible even has pop-up rollover bars and features 17-inch wheels. It has been tested as stopping from 60 mph in 112 feet, which is an excellent result.
Imagine if you will a car that can handle tight curves with ease and is a joy to park because of its small size, and still the interior is roomy enough for adults in the front seat. However, if you plan on anyone riding in the back seat, they had better be very small people because it is cramped at best back there.
Standard equipment includes 15-inch alloy wheels, a six-speaker audio system, full power accessories, air-conditioning, and keyless entry. A wide list of options are available for all trims.
Chief competition comes from the Hyundai Veloster and the Fiat 500; you might also want to look at the BMW 1-Series and the Volkswagen Eos. Having said that, none of the competitors offers the unique blend of quirkiness, handling, and personality that you find in the Mini Cooper, and only the Veloster is cheaper.
Mini Coopers have been around for a few years now, and they are showing up in salvage yards, so you might want to consider a local salvage yard for replacement parts. Remember, this is a European automobile, so replacement auto parts are a bit pricey; why not do yourself a favor and buy quality used parts from All Import Auto Parts, your Fort Worth salvage yard where customer satisfaction always comes first.
The 2012 Mini Cooper and All Import Auto Parts: a winning combination in anyone’s book!