
The MINI Coupe almost sits in a category of its own due to its unique shape, but there are a handful of other cars that come very close to offering the same overall experience.
The 2012 Fiat 500 is probably closest, though it's a bit smaller than the MINI and somewhat less high-performance.
The 2012 Ford Fiesta is a solid rival in hatchback form, offering lots of technology and modern looks, but until the Fiesta ST model arrives, it too falls short in performance.
The Mazda MX-5 Miata is much sportier, being a rear-drive convertible (or retractable hardtop coupe), but it sacrifices some interior space and doesn't deliver as much gas mileage.
The 2012 Hyundai Veloster is certainly quirky, but it's also lightweight, fun-to-drive, inexpensive, and well-made.
In fact, it may be one the few cars shoppers won't consider but should when looking at a MINI Coupe--along with the latest Volkswagen Beetle, which as a turbo has pretty brisk performance and a lot more usable space than the MINI.
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Quick Specs | ||||
If you're looking for style with a dash of sport and a handful of practicality, the MINI Cooper Coupe is a great choice. |
You could do better if you most value space and comfort, but the 2012 Ford Fiesta packs in a lot of style and substance. |
The 2012 Hyundai Veloster starts with niche appeal, but its impressive handling and strong, high-value feature set should play well to the mainstream. |
The 2012 Mazda MX-5 is a true sports roadster with great handling and fun at any speed, and more practical than you might think. |
It's a tale of two Bugs: base Beetles are boring, but 2012 VW Beetle Turbos have us seeking out the nearest exit ramp. |
MSRP From | ||||
$19,500 | $13,200 | $17,300 | $23,470 | $18,495 |
Gas Mileage | ||||
25 MPG City / 37 MPG Hwy | 28 MPG City / 38 MPG Hwy | 27 MPG City / 37 MPG Hwy | 21 MPG City / 28 MPG Hwy | 21 MPG City / 31 MPG Hwy |
Engine | ||||
Gas I4 | Gas I4 | Gas I4 | Gas I4 | Gas I5 |
EPA Class | ||||
Minicompact | Subcompact | - TBD - | Two Seater | Subcompact car |
Style Name | ||||
2-Door Coupe | 4-Door Sedan S | 3-Door Coupe Manual w/Black Int | 2-Door Convertible Manual Sport | 2-Door Coupe Automatic Entry PZEV *Ltd Avail* |
Drivetrain | ||||
Front Wheel Drive | Front-wheel drive | Front Wheel Drive | Rear Wheel Drive | Front Wheel Drive |
Passenger Capacity | ||||
4 | 5 | 4 | 2 | 4 |
Passenger Doors | ||||
N/A | 4 | 3 | N/A | 2 |
Body Style | ||||
Coupe | Sedan | 3 Door Coupe | 2 Door Convertible | Coupe |
Transmission | ||||
Manual | Manual | Manual | Manual w/OD | Automatic |
Detailed Spec Comparison | ||||
2012 MINI Cooper vs. 2012 Ford Fiesta | 2012 MINI Cooper vs. 2012 Hyundai Veloster | 2012 MINI Cooper vs. 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2012 MINI Cooper vs. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle |