As an ex-owner of a 2007 Cooper S, what stood out for me was its highway manners! 40 mpg at up to 80 mph, stable and fast, plenty of power. In town, torque steer was annoying. Fun car!
Not really my style, but you can’t ignore the fun factor. The best reviews are the ones where you can tell the reviewer is loving it. You would definitely take the back roads on the way to the beach. Thanks for the review.
I love this video. It’s a fair view of the Miata. The Cooper convertible doesn’t compete with the Miata but they do have many important things in common. They are both are unique, there aren’t any other competitors. They’re the last of a dying breed and may never be replicated.
I had a 2010 John Cooper Clubman 6 speed turbo blacked out, drove it across country and that car was great. Only sold it because they were $&!$ in the snow. Now I live in the desert and have been looking at getting another. If it’s good enough for Lori, good enough for me. Great review Joe.
My wife has a 2015 Mini Cooper convertible in the same colour she frigging loves it. I hear her coming a mile away with Van Halen blasting. Some pick up truck guy cut her off once…she literally chased him down throwing terrible language at him in a Ram 3500 diesel. I heard he didn’t know what to do, just looked ahead at the lights avoiding any eye contact 😂😂😂 there is some dumb stuff with it but it’s a Mini it’s what it is and you just put up with it…
Nice seeing an adult sit in these back seats. (Picking up one of these for my first convertible). Didn't like the MX-5 as much when I test drove both and the mini fits my lifestyle better as well with the extra seats.
Have previously owned both a '99 Miata Sport 5 sp (100k miles) and a '08 Miata PRHT 6 sp (60k+ miles) and loved them both....but...purchased a last year MINI Roadster S in 2015 (now with 50k+ miles) and even though it is an automatic, prefer it over the Miatas for several reasons. Longer wheelbase makes for a much better long distance cruiser and as the reviewer stated, much less wind buffeting that either Miata. The turbo and low end torque, even though FWD, make it just as enjoyable to drive. While my Roadster does not have the rear seats of the convertible MINI, it has an amazing large boot (compared to the Miata) and there is also a space behind the front seats as well. The newest Miata (ND, soft top or RF) is much more confined inside and will likely be a determining factor for those comparing the MINI to the Miata. Either way, both provide a great way to enjoy the drive...whatever the destination. Zoom, zoom or Keep on Motoring!
Great review on the Cooper S 👍🏼👍🏼 lots of fun thru the twisties 👍🏼👍🏼 Gotta get your hands on a 4door JCW with the stick! Awesome car. Thanks Joe & Lori!!!
I loved this video though I am surprised that you did not mention the two levers that allow easier access to putting things in the boot. Still, I love this car and just ordered a mini convertible in zesty yellow with a 6-speed manual. I can't wait to get it.
Thank you for such a thorough, fun review! I have a 2022 mini cooper convertible on order and am so excited to receive it. They are a blast to drive and definitely puts a smile on your face. As you said, there aren't a lot of convertibles on the market that can seat 4 and also have that fun factor. I loved your review of the 2022 mini cooper hardtop as well. You covered several features I wasn't aware of yet.
I understand that a manual transmission will never be as fast as an automatic. I just hope other manufacturers take note and bring the Manual transmission back for enthusiasts.
@@satti0309 I’m not in Paris. Contrary to popular belief in Paris, there are other places than Paris on Planet Earth. Oh!, if you could leave Paris where that is when you travel outside of Paris, that’d be greatly appreciated! It might be incredible to read, but nobody wants this snobby way to judge other people outside of Paris. Keep Paris and your “That’s not how this is in Paris” for your Paris friends and your overpriced uptight Paris restaurants. :) I might’ve watch a Bill Burr show 10 minutes ago, hehehehe.
JOE ~ beware to Mini people - don't use a drive thru car wash > the brushes are famous for grabbing the chrome work around the hood/front bumper & ripping it off, also the wheels are hard to keep clean, but is you have or get a Cooper S you won't be let down. I concur the drop top cover is a great idea, then it would look like a roadster. my Mini is the exact same color with white racing stripes, it's a blast to drive, but it has no suspension haha, hit a pothole & it's like I hope I didn't just break an axle. great report, thank J - tony
Good review lots of nice detail - the beatles all had a radford mini in the sixties. mini could make a psychadelic version like 60s theme electric with LSD theme - lowered suspension drive
Another great review. As others have said... not my cup o' tea... but a cool car in its uniqueness nonetheless. I much prefer my 124 Lusso, but different strokes for different folks. One thing I always notice... when you hit the twisty bits, your face goes from big smile, laughing, to stone faced concentration. You're obviously focusing on the car, "feeling" it so to speak, ready to react if something goes South. I always just found that abrupt change in your demeanor interesting.
Whaaaaaaaaaat!!!! Mini out here bringing the driving engagement in a BIG way with that 6 speed!!! Makes for a great lil runabout!!! Great review as usual Joe and Lori!!! #RaitisRides #521kSubsAndCounting #OnThrottle #ToTheDoorPanel #TwinkiesForDays #OnThrottleAgain #LoriGotAngles #CameraQueen #Zonkmeister #OnThrottleAllOverThePlace #IfYoureReadyImReady #Mini #Cooper_S #Savethemanuals
The last question first: Having owned a 97 Miata and a 2005 Mini Cooper and have driven the latest versions of both, here's my view: The Mini Cooper's handling is more visceral than the Miata. (The JCW version is almost punishing) However, the Miata seem to meld with the driver. The handling envelope of the Mini seems greater, but getting and holding that edge can be downright frightening. That never happens with the Miata. You are so tuned in, there is no fear, trepidation, or white knuckling. You simply know when you reach its limits, then react accordingly with confidence. As for the stick vs auto: It depends how you use the car 75% of the time. But today, automatics shift more quickly than manual, have better gas mileage, often no savings with manual and allows for more drivers to drive your car. 90% of my cars have been sticks in the past. Not anymore.
It’s cute but a fiat 124 abarth or mazda mx5 fits the bill equally well and are more dynamic to drive. Not to mention, Mini’s can get EXPENSIVE with the options list
Raiti, great video but there is just one issue. There's no way this could be an mx5 replacement/competitor! The Mx-5 has a price of entry at 25k, this mini is nearly double that.
I would love to see a comparison of each of the three generations of MINI convertibles. I agree that the current MINI convertible is a great car for someone who wants a fun to drive small convertible, however, I don't think the current version is any better than the first. I suspect the first version is more fun to drive and only lacks in technology.
I love every aspect of this car at even the things you've docked except for the door panel I don't like the door panel I agree it should have that checkered texture but like manual seats that's amazing you know weight savings on terms of like not having the electrical stuff and plus it just feels more authentic I don't know and I am gonna dock the petals the petals are really slow I would definitely upgrade the petals if I owned one which I am definitely going to a dealer buying one this is amazing I'm gonna get one before they switch to electric cause *** **** I need this in my life
Agreed on the heads up display. I actually choose the Signature trim on my MINIs to avoid it, looks super cheap. It’s odd, you would think BMW would put one of their own in.
Raiti, did you find that the weight of the convertible took away from the fun feel versus a regular MCS of similar years? I really want a convertible but as long as it’s still as fun!
I personally like chrome on some cars if it's done right. Selectively tho. It helps make the cars not look super cheap. I do think they should squeeze a little more hp out tho. A turbo 2.0 should easily be over 200hp, 215 - 220 at minimum. I get that it only weighs 3k pounds but Idk 180 seems too low for not being naturally aspirated. My Elantra GT Sport is a 1.6T and it is rated at 201hp, although they have been dyno'd stock and actually are around 220hp at the crank. And that's a $27k hot hatch, this is a $40k sports car. I just think it should have a bit more personally. No doubt that it's still a fun car, it's funner to drive a slow car fast lol, just seems too low for a 2.0t
Bro, this reviews are on another level there is something magic in the videos of this couple!
Thanks for saying that and letting us share it with you!
As an ex-owner of a 2007 Cooper S, what stood out for me was its highway manners! 40 mpg at up to 80 mph, stable and fast, plenty of power. In town, torque steer was annoying. Fun car!
STILL being a teacher!!! LOVE IT Joe!!!! Lori did a BANG UP job capturing the details on the stripes!!!
Not really my style, but you can’t ignore the fun factor. The best reviews are the ones where you can tell the reviewer is loving it. You would definitely take the back roads on the way to the beach. Thanks for the review.
I totally agree with you!
I love this video. It’s a fair view of the Miata. The Cooper convertible doesn’t compete with the Miata but they do have many important things in common. They are both are unique, there aren’t any other competitors. They’re the last of a dying breed and may never be replicated.
Nothing compares to a Mini S Conv. with a six speed shift. Coops still there. Great video. Driver clearly obsessed with Cooper magic.
Cool little car! Definitely some serious character to it. Shout out to the queen of the camera for the great angles!
You are so very right! Lori does such a great job!
Such a great review. I'm thinking of getting the John Cooper and this review has really helped.
Loving the absolute joy! I was smiling along.
Wow the color combo on this car is great, classic Mini design and a manual is great!
I totally agree with you!
"A screeching tire is a happy tire!" Yeah!
Heck yeah!
Not really for me, but I appreciate Mini for what they are and the history of them, I can certainly see the appeal. Awesome review!
Thanks man!
Manual tramission is my favorite!
Same here!
I had a 2010 John Cooper Clubman 6 speed turbo blacked out, drove it across country and that car was great. Only sold it because they were $&!$ in the snow. Now I live in the desert and have been looking at getting another. If it’s good enough for Lori, good enough for me. Great review Joe.
I like the way you think!
The screech on the tires sounds awesome
Thanks man!
My wife has a 2015 Mini Cooper convertible in the same colour she frigging loves it. I hear her coming a mile away with Van Halen blasting. Some pick up truck guy cut her off once…she literally chased him down throwing terrible language at him in a Ram 3500 diesel. I heard he didn’t know what to do, just looked ahead at the lights avoiding any eye contact 😂😂😂 there is some dumb stuff with it but it’s a Mini it’s what it is and you just put up with it…
Not even close to my kind of car, still clicked on the video the second I saw it. Thanks Joe great video!
My disappointment is immeasurable and my day is ruined
All of your videos are Great! I just picked up a new 2022 Mini Cooper 2 door and I love it!
Awesome Review As Always Joe, Also That's One Clean Convertible Car & I Totally In Love With This Car With The Manual Transmission.
I totally agree with you!
what a cutie car
Nice review, on the fence and this helped me get to the dealer. Now the fun starts!
That is so awesome Luis! My videographer Lori loved it so much she bought one.
Planning on getting one and thank you for the review!
Great drop-top! Love the manual! A fun ride, for sure. Thanks for everything you do, Lori!
Thanks for giving Lori the awesome support!
My man loves his coffee and his own voice. But I’m here for it. 😂
Nice seeing an adult sit in these back seats. (Picking up one of these for my first convertible). Didn't like the MX-5 as much when I test drove both and the mini fits my lifestyle better as well with the extra seats.
I have a red JCW convertible 21 with classic chrome detailing rather than black. Love it 😍
Congrats Susan! I really love these.
I literally just watched your older Cooper review before this was uploaded
That is so awesome! Thanks man!
Everybody loves your vids Joe Raiti!
That really means so much!
That blue is gorgeous
I agree with you!
Have previously owned both a '99 Miata Sport 5 sp (100k miles) and a '08 Miata PRHT 6 sp (60k+ miles) and loved them both....but...purchased a last year MINI Roadster S in 2015 (now with 50k+ miles) and even though it is an automatic, prefer it over the Miatas for several reasons. Longer wheelbase makes for a much better long distance cruiser and as the reviewer stated, much less wind buffeting that either Miata. The turbo and low end torque, even though FWD, make it just as enjoyable to drive. While my Roadster does not have the rear seats of the convertible MINI, it has an amazing large boot (compared to the Miata) and there is also a space behind the front seats as well. The newest Miata (ND, soft top or RF) is much more confined inside and will likely be a determining factor for those comparing the MINI to the Miata. Either way, both provide a great way to enjoy the drive...whatever the destination. Zoom, zoom or Keep on Motoring!
Thanks for that great input based off owning both brands. I know Lori loves her Mini Cooper S!
Definitely a sweet little ride. Hope you’re having a good day Joe!
I sure am! Thanks for saying that!
Nice review on the fun little Mini! Is Lori enjoying her new one? Thanks Joe! Lori killin it as usual!! 👍🏻👍🏻🇺🇸
We appreciate you Larry! Lori is heads over heels in love!
These little cars have some of the coolest interiors!
17:12 ON THROTTLE!!!!!!!! Wow it sounds awesome
Great review on the Cooper S 👍🏼👍🏼 lots of fun thru the twisties 👍🏼👍🏼
Gotta get your hands on a 4door JCW with the stick! Awesome car.
Thanks Joe & Lori!!!
I totally agree with you Bob! Thanks my friend!
The dual exhaust looks cool
AGREED!
"Sometimes things come back, mate" - Jack Sparrow on the 6 speed manual.
They mostly come at night..
@@keithclayton1271 LOL FACTS
That’s the best antenna that I’ve heard in my life
I loved this video though I am surprised that you did not mention the two levers that allow easier access to putting things in the boot. Still, I love this car and just ordered a mini convertible in zesty yellow with a 6-speed manual. I can't wait to get it.
Much Love, Lori!!! Great video work!! You should have your own videographer channel!!...call it Lori's Lux.
Thank you for such a thorough, fun review! I have a 2022 mini cooper convertible on order and am so excited to receive it. They are a blast to drive and definitely puts a smile on your face. As you said, there aren't a lot of convertibles on the market that can seat 4 and also have that fun factor. I loved your review of the 2022 mini cooper hardtop as well. You covered several features I wasn't aware of yet.
I understand that a manual transmission will never be as fast as an automatic. I just hope other manufacturers take note and bring the Manual transmission back for enthusiasts.
"If the car you buy is available with a MT, ALWAYS...ALWAYS...ALWAYS pick the MT" - words of a wize man.
Thanks man!
Come to Paris and you’ll rethink that decision
@@satti0309 I’m not in Paris. Contrary to popular belief in Paris, there are other places than Paris on Planet Earth.
Oh!, if you could leave Paris where that is when you travel outside of Paris, that’d be greatly appreciated! It might be incredible to read, but nobody wants this snobby way to judge other people outside of Paris.
Keep Paris and your “That’s not how this is in Paris” for your Paris friends and your overpriced uptight Paris restaurants. :)
I might’ve watch a Bill Burr show 10 minutes ago, hehehehe.
JOE ~ beware to Mini people - don't use a drive thru car wash > the brushes are famous for grabbing the chrome work around the hood/front bumper & ripping it off, also the wheels are hard to keep clean, but is you have or get a Cooper S you won't be let down. I concur the drop top cover is a great idea, then it would look like a roadster. my Mini is the exact same color with white racing stripes, it's a blast to drive, but it has no suspension haha, hit a pothole & it's like I hope I didn't just break an axle. great report, thank J - tony
The manual transmission is really cool
Yes indeed!
Good review lots of nice detail - the beatles all had a radford mini in the sixties. mini could make a psychadelic version like 60s theme electric with LSD theme - lowered suspension drive
I love the Union Jack tail lights
Same, I hate the original back taillights of the Clubman. I prefer the Union Jack taillights on the Clubman.
Same here!
@@brianlee7738 AGREED! It was a good move!
Joe......what a talented guy you are.....thx so much for the Review.....
Don't forget, you upgrade those seats to leather, you get the manual dial lumbar support on the front seats!
Scotty hate this brand but the European customers love it, thanks for the review.
Whether you're a quarter mile away, or halfway around the world in Australia.... we'll always be family. A screamin' tire is a happy tire lmbo !! :D
I like the way that you think.
Lmao*
Another great review. As others have said... not my cup o' tea... but a cool car in its uniqueness nonetheless. I much prefer my 124 Lusso, but different strokes for different folks. One thing I always notice... when you hit the twisty bits, your face goes from big smile, laughing, to stone faced concentration. You're obviously focusing on the car, "feeling" it so to speak, ready to react if something goes South. I always just found that abrupt change in your demeanor interesting.
@18:56 the tire tracks. Was that you, Joe? lol
SHHHHH.....
@@RaitisRides lol
Dang, after watching this review and that color, i have a craving for Welchs Grape.
LOL PERFECT!
Great review Joe 👍🏼
I appreciate you saying that Robert!
Whaaaaaaaaaat!!!! Mini out here bringing the driving engagement in a BIG way with that 6 speed!!! Makes for a great lil runabout!!! Great review as usual Joe and Lori!!! #RaitisRides #521kSubsAndCounting #OnThrottle #ToTheDoorPanel #TwinkiesForDays #OnThrottleAgain #LoriGotAngles #CameraQueen #Zonkmeister #OnThrottleAllOverThePlace #IfYoureReadyImReady #Mini #Cooper_S #Savethemanuals
Thanks for taking the drive with me!
8:35 wow that sounds really cool
Indeed
The last question first: Having owned a 97 Miata and a 2005 Mini Cooper and have driven the latest versions of both, here's my view: The Mini Cooper's handling is more visceral than the Miata. (The JCW version is almost punishing)
However, the Miata seem to meld with the driver. The handling envelope of the Mini seems greater, but getting and holding that edge can be downright frightening. That never happens with the Miata. You are so tuned in, there is no fear, trepidation, or white knuckling. You simply know when you reach its limits, then react accordingly with confidence.
As for the stick vs auto: It depends how you use the car 75% of the time. But today, automatics shift more quickly than manual, have better gas mileage, often no savings with manual and allows for more drivers to drive your car. 90% of my cars have been sticks in the past.
Not anymore.
I like the way that you did that!
@@RaitisRides a bit of creativity is pleasing from both sides.
The current Miata is just too uncomfortable to drive for any decent length of time. It's an ergonomic mess of a car.
Shout out to Lori and Joe. Cool car loads of fun 😎 thanks again to team awesome 👌
Thanks for letting us share it with you!
It’s cute but a fiat 124 abarth or mazda mx5 fits the bill equally well and are more dynamic to drive. Not to mention, Mini’s can get EXPENSIVE with the options list
Looking forward hearing the new review of the 2022 Toyota Tundra Hybrid Pick up.
Stay tuned!
Chic I miss the classic Minilite mag wheels of the '60s & '70s
Those are amazing!
Honestly I love my Mini Cooper convertible with automatic so that way I won’t keep shifting on long trips
Sounds like a good plan.
My uncle was inside one and he said it was a fun experience.
I love it my boy Joe keep up the work and I love the video lot real true and funny 😄😆🤣💯😂good 👍
Thanks Dominic! That really means a lot!
I'm digging that Mini and that watch ⌚!
Thanks for saying that Chip!
Make a video about the new 2021 Ram 1500 Built to Serve Edition
You got it!
Raiti, great video but there is just one issue. There's no way this could be an mx5 replacement/competitor! The Mx-5 has a price of entry at 25k, this mini is nearly double that.
Yes, and it 2x better the car as well so it's worth the asking price.
That tire squeal was insane, lol.
A car that has 4WD and a manual transmission is the Toyota Yaris GR, but isn’t available in the United States.
I would love to see a comparison of each of the three generations of MINI convertibles. I agree that the current MINI convertible is a great car for someone who wants a fun to drive small convertible, however, I don't think the current version is any better than the first. I suspect the first version is more fun to drive and only lacks in technology.
A 2.0L turbo 4 cylinder great engine
Looks like fun car.........I agree with convertible top........should be tucked in
Great review, thanks !
I love every aspect of this car at even the things you've docked except for the door panel I don't like the door panel I agree it should have that checkered texture but like manual seats that's amazing you know weight savings on terms of like not having the electrical stuff and plus it just feels more authentic I don't know and I am gonna dock the petals the petals are really slow I would definitely upgrade the petals if I owned one which I am definitely going to a dealer buying one this is amazing I'm gonna get one before they switch to electric cause *** **** I need this in my life
I am looking for a gentler ride, what about it. bigger tires smaller rims or vice versa?
It looks extremely easy to drive
Manual Transmission All. The. Time. When it comes to "play toys"‼️
I can't do MT as my everyday driver, though.
I agree with you!
I used to have a 2005 blue mini convertible but with a automatic
Agreed on the heads up display. I actually choose the Signature trim on my MINIs to avoid it, looks super cheap. It’s odd, you would think BMW would put one of their own in.
6-Speed manual all the way!
With all those animals chirping in the background I thought I was listening to my latest AVGN binge
LOL
This makes me miss my Mini.
You can always get another!
But the base model of the Mini Cooper convertible is really enjoyable to drive the one with the 1.5L 3 cylinder but the S looks fun
You are correct. The base 3 popper is all you really need.
Raiti, did you find that the weight of the convertible took away from the fun feel versus a regular MCS of similar years? I really want a convertible but as long as it’s still as fun!
No Andriod Auto on all MINIs 😞
Sorry Joe. You have humidity we have heat in Las Vegas. No drop top for me.
I can understand that!
Youve got to do more MINIs!!
Very good review
We need more Manuals!!!!!!
Should every single vehicle on the road have a manual transmission?
I would keep this mini in my bedroom 😂😂
LOL
@stang 04 I agree with you!
I like mini convertibles great thing to have
I agree with you!
Do you think the Toyota 4Runner 4X4 will be a hybrid too?
Now Joe this is such a great car the mini cooper s Stand's supercharged is that right
No
@@alh06 well my older brother's told me that
@@bearlogangaming Well he’s wrong, fact check yourself
This made me wonder do they still make chevy avalanche the last one i seen had like 500 thousand miles ?
great vid
Drop top MINI. Not so mini any more but it’s maxi on fun. 👍🏻
I like what you did there!
great little car! Gotta go convertible!
Wich has more rear space between the Cooper and the Mustang ? 🤔
The Mustang.
@@RaitisRides thanks
I've been reviewing your last mini s cab 6 speed or auto. Is this kind of build still possible for 2022.
I personally like chrome on some cars if it's done right. Selectively tho. It helps make the cars not look super cheap. I do think they should squeeze a little more hp out tho. A turbo 2.0 should easily be over 200hp, 215 - 220 at minimum. I get that it only weighs 3k pounds but Idk 180 seems too low for not being naturally aspirated. My Elantra GT Sport is a 1.6T and it is rated at 201hp, although they have been dyno'd stock and actually are around 220hp at the crank. And that's a $27k hot hatch, this is a $40k sports car. I just think it should have a bit more personally. No doubt that it's still a fun car, it's funner to drive a slow car fast lol, just seems too low for a 2.0t