For The stylish Mini Roadster combines open-air thrills with agile handling. Unlike most other Minis, it’s more affordable than its major competitors.
Against It’s not as sharp to drive as the Mini Coupe because the body isn’t as stiff. You have to put up with wind noise with the roof up and buffeting with it down.
If you’re after a desirable and affordable drop-top, and don’t need more than two seats, the Mini Roadster should be on your list. After all, it’s our Open Top of the Year 2013.
The Mini Roadster range doesn’t really have trim levels as such. Instead, there are four models that feature different engines, but the same basic kit.
All models get a part-electric roof as standard and this folds neatly behind the seats without impinging on boot space. As a bonus, it can be operated at speeds of up to 20mph, although it takes a bit of muscle to clip it to the top of the windscreen.
Whichever version of the Roadster you buy, consider taking out one of the two low-cost, fixed-price servicing packages: tlc and tlc xl. The first of these covers all scheduled servicing for five years or 50,000 miles (whichever comes first) and the second for eight years or 80,000 miles.
I've had this car, with auto box & chilli pack, for a month. It looks great & the handling is excellent especially in sport mode when the steering…