Worth buying a 9-year-old Mini Convertible for Rs 25L? Pros & Cons

The Cooper S is more fun than a Ferrari in India. Like a fast go-kart really and loads of style too.

BHPian RoadFiend recently shared this with other enthusiasts.

Team-BHP friends,

I've been toying with the notion of acquiring a MINI Convertible for weekend adventures on the outskirts of Bangalore. I have other cars for regular duties and this is purely for fun.

However, the almost Rs 60 lakh (On-Road, Bangalore) price is a downer. Since it's the "Convertible" aspect I'm drawn to, I'm starting to wonder about going the pre-worshipped route.

As a case in point, what are the Pros and Cons of the 2013 Mini Cooper 3-door in the link? It's quoted at Rs 25.75 lakh (un-negotiated). What'd be the right price considering Bangalore?

Here's what GTO had to say on the matter:

Go for it, but preferably look for the Cooper "S". I found the non "S" to be dull to drive.

I don't know about Bangalore, but that price is high for a 9-year-old Cooper in Mumbai. You can try to get newer examples.

The pros & cons will be as outlined in our reviews of Cooper. Loads of fun to drive; IMHO, the Cooper S is more fun than a Ferrari in India. Like a fast go-kart really, and loads of style too. Downsides are the cabin size (hence low on practicality), it will remain a toy and the stiff ride quality.

Depending on your budget, you can also consider cars like the SLK, Boxster, A3 Cabriolet etc. Loads of options under 35 - 50 lakhs.

The Thar Convertible is a fantastic choice for open-top cruising in India and you can go offroading too. On the other hand, the Cooper S is way too much fun to drive on tarmac, something the Thar won't come close to (although a Jeep provides a different kind of kick).

Here's what BHPian 2000rpm had to say on the matter:

Any specific reason you are looking for a Mini and not a soft top THAR?

The adventure in a mini will be very limited to what you can do in a Thar!!

Here's what BHPian androdev had to say on the matter:

Thar open-top won't attract as much attention as an exotic like Mini cooper convertible. That can be a pro or con depending on the individual and his/her company.

Check out BHPian comments for more insights and information.