The pair of 2016 Mini Cooper hardtops don't have many direct competitors, with the closest one being the lineup of Fiat 500 models.
It too has retro styling and a growing array of versions (like the Mini), but the British car is newer, better engineered, and more spacious.
The Ford Fiesta also handles well, but its base three-cylinder version is less powerful and doesn't come with an automatic.
The larger but still retro VW Beetle is more about quirky image than the rollerskate handling and cheeky performance of the Mini.
The Beetle Convertible is a comfortable and spacious way for two to enjoy sunny weather, although the Cooper Convertible has a zippy feel that mashes up with roadster cheer.
Speaking of that, the Mazda MX-5 Miata is an interesting rival; it's a true, rear-wheel-drive sports car, although the Cooper's layout definitely affords more comfort and space for weekend bags.
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 2016 MINI CooperBrowse Used Listings |  2016 Chevrolet SparkBrowse Used Listings |  2016 Ford FiestaBrowse Used Listings |  2016 Mazda MX-5 MiataBrowse Used Listings |  2016 Volkswagen BeetleBrowse Used Listings |  2016 FIAT 500Browse Used Listings |
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| Quick Specs | |||||
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The 2016 Mini Cooper is as cheeky as its retro style implies—and its three-cylinder engine is a charming surprise. |
The 2016 Chevrolet Spark is an all-new version of the minicar that actually seats four adults; its more "adult" styling, higher-quality materials, and optional active-safety features may make it the best of the tiny cars. |
The 2016 Fiesta offers fun and features not expected at these prices, but it lacks interior space compared to top rivals. |
The 2016 Mazda MX-5 Miata shouldn’t disappoint driving purists, yet it’s been reformulated for a new generation to enjoy. |
The 2016 Volkswagen Beetle is a versatile retro compact, with a choice of powertrains and coupe or convertible body styles. |
The 2016 Fiat 500 remains distinctive and stylish, with the Abarth and Turbo models scoring high for driver excitement and the electric 500e perhaps the best all-round version (but only for Californians). |
| MSRP From | |||||
| $20,700 | $12,660 | $14,580 | $24,915 | $19,595 | $16,995 |
| Gas Mileage | |||||
| 22 MPG City / 39 MPG Hwy | 30 MPG City / 39 MPG Hwy | 26 MPG City / 36 MPG Hwy | 27 MPG City / 36 MPG Hwy | 23 MPG City / 34 MPG Hwy | 28 MPG City / 40 MPG Hwy |
| Engine | |||||
| Intercooled Turbo Premium Unleaded I-3 | Gas I4 | Regular Unleaded I-4 | Premium Unleaded I-4 | Intercooled Turbo Regular Unleaded I-4 | Premium Unleaded I-4 |
| EPA Class | |||||
| Subcompact Cars | Subcompact Car | Subcompact Cars | Two Seaters | Compact Cars | Minicompact Cars |
| Style Name | |||||
| 2-Door HB | 5-Door HB Manual LS | 4-Door Sedan S | 2-Door Convertible Manual Sport | 2-Door Automatic 1.8T Wolfsburg Edition PZEV | 2-Door HB Easy |
| Drivetrain | |||||
| Front Wheel Drive | Front Wheel Drive | Front Wheel Drive | Rear Wheel Drive | Front Wheel Drive | Front Wheel Drive |
| Passenger Capacity | |||||
| 4 | 4 | 5 | 2 | 4 | 4 |
| Passenger Doors | |||||
| N/A | 4 | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Body Style | |||||
| Hatchback | Hatchback | Sedan | Convertible | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Transmission | |||||
| Manual w/OD | Manual | Manual w/OD | Manual | Automatic w/OD | Manual w/OD |
| Detailed Spec Comparison | |||||
| 2016 MINI Cooper vs. 2016 Chevrolet Spark | 2016 MINI Cooper vs. 2016 Ford Fiesta | 2016 MINI Cooper vs. 2016 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2016 MINI Cooper vs. 2016 Volkswagen Beetle | 2016 MINI Cooper vs. 2016 FIAT 500 | |
