Used 2007 MINI Cooper

A few years ago the MINI Cooper established itself as an instant automotive icon, representing unexcelled driving fun, and today the MINI, in both the Cooper and higher-performance Cooper S versions, continues to sell at a brisk pace. In 2005 MINI introduced a convertible version and added an open-air aspect to the concept of motoring that was fun, fashionable, affordable, fast and frugal. The MINI Cooper Convertible is practically alone in its segment, with head-turning style, a long list of standard equipment and a back seat actually capable of seating two people.

The MINI Cooper delivers steering response that is nearly instantaneous, excellent acceleration (especially in the supercharged S model) and an eager and capable suspension. Removing the MINI Cooper’s top has not caused any noticeable deterioration in the handling, feel and response, and the MINI Cooper Convertible feels every bit as tight and rattle-free as its hatchback cousin. The 1.6-liter engine of the non-supercharged version provides brisk acceleration perfect for city driving, merging or passing on the highway. Load in a few passengers or try climbing a steep hill, however, and the Cooper isn’t so willing. The MINI Cooper Convertible S provides a significant increase in performance, yet costs only a few thousand dollars more with very little penalty in increased fuel consumption.

In the MINI Cooper Convertible the rear seats have been moved forward and offer less hip and shoulder room than in the hatchback, but two agreeable adults can squeeze in and, with the top down, getting in or out of the back seat is quite easy. The MINI Cooper Convertible offers more fabric and color choices than the hatchback models, including a handsome two-tone cloth and leather seat package. Power window switches for the roof and rear windows are conveniently mounted above the windshield.

The overall body shape, including the hood, headlights and grille, remains identical to the MINI Cooper hatchback, but the rear of the MINI Cooper Convertible features a flip-down lid with exposed hinges covering a small trunk. The convertible top is designed to mimic the hatchback’s roofline, and the rear quarter windows can be lowered, which is not possible with the hatchback model. The top is power operated and features a clever sunroof feature allowing it to slide back and expose the front seats to the open air. Press another button and the entire top retreats behind the rear seats.

The Two-Stage Convertible Top
The MINI Cooper Convertible’s power top can be partially retracted to act as a sunroof or fully retracted for a completely open-air experience.

John Cooper Works Kit
For the ultimate high-performance MINI Cooper S, add the John Cooper Works Kit. It’s not inexpensive, but it delivers 207 horsepower and includes dual exhaust, larger brakes and a limited-slip differential.

The 2007 MINI Cooper Convertible’s standard equipment list includes a five-speed manual transmission, manual air conditioning, keyless entry, power windows/locks/mirrors, 15-inch alloy wheels, climate controlled glove box, AM/FM/CD sound, cloth or leatherette bucket seats and a power canvas top. The S model adds a 168-horsepower supercharged engine, six-speed manual transmission, 16-inch run-flat tires, aluminum foot pedals, sport seats and a stiffer suspension.

The 2007 Mini Cooper Convertible offers such desirable options as an upgraded Harman Kardon audio system, xenon headlights, heated mirrors, auto climate control, dynamic stability control and a wide, wide range of performance-oriented and appearance-enhancing options.

The non-supercharged 1.6-liter engine delivers a noteworthy combination of decent acceleration and excellent fuel economy. It has plenty of performance around town, but somewhat less at higher speeds. The Cooper S model uses the same basic engine, modified by the addition of a supercharger. It provides a drastic increase in performance with only a slight loss of fuel economy.

1.6-liter in-line 4
115 horsepower @ 6000 rpm
111 lb.-ft. of torque @ 4500 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 27/35 (manual), 26/33 (automatic)

1.6-liter in-line 4 Supercharged
168 horsepower @ 6000 rpm
162 lb.-ft. of torque @ 4000 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 25/32 (manual), 22/32 (automatic)