MY WIFE AND I BOTH OWN AND DRIVE FIAT 500s...Her's is a POP... and mine is a 500C... we love them... get about 40 MPG... drive them sporting and have had them longer then most anyone here in the USA... we love our cars and ... they are fun, safe, handle great and were much less expensive than the uncomfortable mini cooper... I drove 6 mini coopers before buying our first FIAT500 and that should speak for itself... they are both terrific little cars... but I just preferred the specifics of seating, and drive-ability of the FIATS... I have influenced a small army of folks to also get there butt into a FIAT... that all thank me with smiles on their faces... simple fact is that FIAT at it's low cost gives you more value than MINI does at its high price...
I bought a new Fiat 500 Pop in 2013 and have not looked back or had a single regret. I'm still driving it 4 years later! The only thing I've done in those 4 years is regular oil changes. I enjoy GREAT gas mileage 30+ mpg in town and about 40 mpg on the highway.
Nan Abbott-Hourigan Hi! I'm thinking about getting the 2012 Fiat 500L used to save a bit of money.. Did you buy yours used?! Also, it's good to hear the reliability was well with you.. I love that it'a a foreign car and hope that maintaince isn't a hassal.
The Mini has gotten too big over the years. It's nice to see that the Fiat 500 hasn't fallen prey to becoming big and bloayed like most other cars on the road
+U.P. dan Yep, I was parked yesterday by a Mini. My Abarth is almost half the size! Thats what makes driving these Fiat 500's so much fun! Its like a go cart with air conditioning! ....YO!
The size of the Mini has grown , they are no way near as cool or cute as the originals . They are bigger because of crash safety testing . They made the car as small as they could while maintaining a certain safety standard . It still looks nice though .
That’s a surprise. Fiat 500 as we know it’s the Most unreliable car in the world. At the end, we don’t have a lot of Choice for a small car in the US while Japan have a bunch and lot of them is way smaller than Smart Fortwo.
@@PreciousAlpschindler The North American version definitely has a sketchy reputation. The European version is likely better built since they're still selling very well. The mods owners of the Abarth line are adding to their cars can be a bit insane! I bought a 2015 North American Fiat 500 Abarth last summer as a tinker toy. I'm spending a lot more on mods than I'm spending on repairs! 😁 The car's holding up very nicely even in the winter.
I know this is an older video but they forgot the reliability category. Mini not only has more frequent mechanical issues they are also more expensive to fix. If I were trying to decide between the two, this alone would sway my vote to the Fiat 500
The Mini has grown so much that it's not really "mini" any more. The design might have been fun and fresh when it first came out as an modern interpretation of the original, but after three generations of "interpretation" and growth, it's just not fun anymore.
Sorry guys I'm going with the fiat, I paid forty two thousand for my last vehicle in 2009 and I'm still more in love with the fiat. I've driven both but like the fiat more. It's just sexy where the mini looks like nans car.
I've had my Fiat 500 Abarth for 2 days short of a month. In 1971, I was the 1st person in Buffalo, NY to own a Datsun 204Z when they became available here. The 240Z was a truly revolutionary car when it was introduced. Prior to that I had a Triumph TR4, a MGB GT, and a Saab Sonnet. I'm now seventy one, but I don't think my memory is failing me. I can tell you this is more fun to drive than any of those sports cars were. As Jay Leno commented, "You can't drive this car without a smile on your face". Oh, and additionally, at seventy one, I like that you site a little higher than the Mini. Old guys like me can get in and out of it easily. I do believe they're a bit cheaper to maintain and service. You don't need to take it to a BMW dealer. I VOTE FOR THE FIAT 500 ABARTH!
In America Fiat means excellent value, great build quality, most fun ever and most importantly, the Fiat 500 can terrorize the Mini on the highway as it screams pass, leaving the Mini driver in total shock and awe.
Fiat 500 is not a sub-compact. Misleading title invalid comparison. Fiat 500 = Minicompact. Compare it to things like the IQ, ForTwo, Spark, etc. They are comparing interior space... knowing that one car is substantially bigger and not even the same size-class. What a joke. Vehicle size-classification is based solely on interior space! I love the Mini but it's no longer a rival to a 500. The Mini is no longer mini. Leave these 2 cars be and quit comparing them. It's like comparing a Ford Focus to a Fiesta.
Oddly enough, even though the Mini is significantly larger than the Fiat, all of its interior dimensions (head, shoulder, leg) are only about 1" larger. The only exception is rear seat leg room. The Mini has 1" LESS rear seat legroom than the Fiat.
Mini and fiat are the two cars that I’m looking into buying. All other cars in their classes are super lame, not classics, so comparing these two cars is exactly what I’m looking for (niche)
When looking for my first car, I saw a 2010 Fiat 500 for $6,500 and a 2007 Mini Cooper R56 base for $5,000 at the same dealership and they both had a similar number of miles on them. While I still liked the Fiat, it felt kind of cheap and I've always been told to stay away from Crystlers. It was more expensive and it was in my least favorite color (white) so I went over to look at the Mini I began to fall in love with the Mini instantly. As soon as I sat down in it, I was pretty much sold on it. It was so comfortable and the interior was so well made and designed. Gorgeous inside and out. 4 months later, that Mini is my baby and I love it so much. Sure, the repairs are expensive, but it's worth it in my opinion. I think I'll only drive Minis for the rest of my life lol
rich kemp as an owner of a Mini Cooper s I have to tell you that mini is overpriced just for the brand. It is pathetic car and damaged all the time. This is not “a mini”. I am selling this shit to buy a lovely fiat 500!!!
[ J o n e l ] Collections the Gucci model is rare and hard to find, my friend wrecked a convertible Gucci and she got 6000 more then blue book because of its rarity
Which one do you want when you need a repair? I have a 500C, and have had a mini S. The repairs on the mini were twice as expensive. And more frequently required. I’ve had my 500C for 4 years now. Oil changes and tires. That’s it. The Minimwas a little problematic.
I would have loved to hear about the measurements of these two cars. Which one is longer? Which one is wider? That's something people in crowded cities may need to know.
wow is your info wrong. The Fiat 500 does not have one of the worst engines...and. no they are not fast at all...and finally they hardly ever break dow......you obviously are not familiar AT ALL with the Fiat 500
brian salmon no, last year Drive Magazine announced the list for best relieable engine. Fiat was right down the bottom. Mini was in the middle (just above the middle) so that settles it for engines...
no that does not settle it for the engines. The engine on the Fiat 500 is not at all on the bottom of the list. It’s a very, very good engine with next to no problems at all. Overall, the Fiat 500 is a lot more trouble free than the goofy Mini Cooper
The comments here are the best. Point to FIAT for inspiring love/ loyalty like no other car brand. We just can’t help but fall hopelessly for little guys. And yup- FIAT all day for me too. Sure, Mini wins for power/ tricked out interior, but I’m not sure it lives up to the expectations of it. With FIAT, you’ll be forever surprised with how much you get out of this minimalist package.
Here in the Uk, the Mini Cooper is in a much higher price bracket to the smaller Fiat 500, making this review totally irrelevant for people living outside America. The Mini is better built, and has a higher quality interior, so comparing both cars is totally misleading.
I love the hell out of my Fiat 500 and get countless positive comments. That said, the Mini Cooper is the more handsome of the two. I want one of each!
I've test driven both manual and automatic transmission of a 2011 mini cooper (NON S VERSION). The Manual drove fantastically all the while the automatic while it auto downshifted felt like a rookie was downshifting for the first time, it felt really bad. I will add that that was only test driving one of each and that may not be the case of all other automatic. In the end I chose the manual, more fun on the road. better for winter with the control. And I will add that having a high mount shift stick would've been perfect for the mini.
If you're on a budget, go with Fiat. I bought a used 2013 Fiat 500 Sport with 30K miles, mint condition with one owner for only $8000. Also...if you live far away from a BMW/MINI dealership, forget getting a MINI, unless you're highly skilled in car maintenance. More personal experience/opinions below... Owned two Mini Coopers. 2008 Cooper S (30K miles), 2012 Cooper S, both manual (88K miles). They're insanely expensive to maintain, make sure to get a good service warranty, and a tire & wheel contract. Especially if you live in a state with poorly maintained roads like Missouri. Tire & Wheel policy saved me $400+ on two Eagle Sport tire replacements, and I was later able to sell the contract back for a partial refund. From what GEICO told me, my fully insured auto policy does NOT cover the wheels, they're considered wear and tear. Roadside assistance insurance is required for MINI. MINI was nice enough to include most MINIs tools to put on a spare but forgot to include the spare. Repairs: Spent over $4K in repairs on most recent MINI (2012 Mini Cooper S, 6 spd). Had it for 88K thru 97K miles. Most places around me in KC metro would not work on Mini, at least all the places I called. For example, I got turned down recently by Walmart and Goodyear for a simple oil change. Last week I took my Mini to the dealership (BMW/MINI), for an in-depth checkup, and I needed another $1400 in repairs. Said the hell with that, traded it for the Fiat mentioned above. I sit a bit higher, it's roomy in the front, get a bit better gas mileage. It's comfortable. Definitely lacks in power, I'll either have to turn on Sport Mode, or shift down into 4th to pass vehicles sometimes. Fiat 500 Sport doesn't look as nice, is not as comfortable and fun to drive but gets better gas mileage for manual transmissions (40+ Hwy mpg). While I was able to safely, and comfortably drive on the highway, my FIAT feels more like something intended for mainly city transportation, for errands and such.
These guys don't know what they are talking about. Mini has horrible reliability. I would also like to say that heavy does not equate to quality, substantial feeling, or refinement! I have over 75K averaging 35mpg commuting into downtown LA! It is a pop and the engine is not gutless if you know how to drive and use the revs and don't lug the poor thing.
I think the comparison is kinda unfair because the modern version of the fiat hasn't been out all that long, they haven't had the same amount of time to develop the modern version like the mini, i'll admit i'm mini bias and i'm judging based off of the american versions, but I do hold an expectation that the fiat will catch up to a more even match with the mini as time goes on. These two are definitely cars to keep an eye on in the future.
that guy can sell the Mini all he wants...it doesn’t matter to me how much more car you get with Mini, or if the Mini is faster etc., because I like the looks of the Fiat 10 thousand times more than the Mini. For myself, the Mini is a complete eye sore in looks....ish
I test drove the basic fiat 500.. it's like a completely different car to the (US) Abarth - so slow/no feel.. the Abarth 500 in reality sells much less than the sticker price here in the US.. mine was 19K USD - the Cooper S would have been significantly more expensive at the time (2014).. no doubt about it the materials in the Fiat interior are crappy... but it's so much fun to drive (the Abarth). 25K miles.. no problems so far.. just oil changes.. and new tires.
"Fiat is barely faster than the base mini.." - Standard Fiat 500 turbo should not be compared to mini Cooper S. You should check out The Abarth 595, 695 Competzione, Essesse and Biposto and re-do this comparison. The last mentioned would rival the mini JCW GP, or at least come closer even though the mini is generally faster due to its bigger motor. But, there is also a weight difference of almost 200kg, and a huge difference in handling due to the different seating positions & wheel base measurements, which surprisingly makes these cars quite different. The mini feels more like a quick golf, and the fiat stands out more as a unique driving machine. One more thing, family trips with two adults and two kids in both of these cars is no problem. You just have to travel light :)
I like the Fiat...I saw one in the parking lot when I went to the store. The lime green color is super cute! I like the toy-like look. I love the sub-compact. I like it TINY!
Oh, that’s right, you don’t know what your talking about. Mine 2012 Fiat 500 has 199,201 miles on it and All I had done was normal wear front brakes, a second battery ,and my drivers window adjusted under warranty. The Fiat 500 is VERY reliable...you are clueless about this car, obviously
I've owned both; a 2003 Mini Cooper (purchased new) and a 2013 Fiat 500 (purchased used in '16). IMHO the newer MINIs lack the sporty suspension which shows in it's mushy handling (as was test driven in 2009). Thus showing it becoming more a family car and less of a sports car. The MINI did poorly in snow (got stuck in 4") whereas the Fiat sliced right through 8"+. MPG: My Fiat is getting mid 30's in the winter (time spent warming up on those really cold Northern Wisconsin mornings) and mid 40's when cruising the highways in the summer, even with the AC blasting away. I don't think the MINI ever hit 40 mpg. As some else posted, essentially this video is comparing apples to oranges. The MINI may be a bit more classier, but it is NOT a Fiat 500! (Might I add, MINI CVT needed to be replaced in its first year.)
Fiat has a poor reputation in the UK that nowadays is unfounded. By the early 1990's they had sorted most of the problems out and as you stood by the cars going through at motor auctions in the early 2000's this was clear to see. Fiat had solid bodies while the Astra's and Escorts where showing signs of corrosion. Old prejudices die hard but I have had Fiat as a second car since 1987 and now run Alfa Romeo. I wouldn't hesitate, Fiats are fun to drive in a way that the bloated mixed up Mini can only press its nose up at the window. And no, I don't work for Fiat.
While I LOVE and own a new Cooper, they are NOT cheap. Most Coopers S models do not start at 24k. The cheapest I've seen around was approx. 27k with ZERO options. With any options at all, they were closer to 30k. Even my moderately optioned Base model was approx. 27k.
I love how Edmunds adds tension to a fight that is completely one sided. Seriously, doesn't the fiat look like a pregnant smart car? And why do they always make Mike defend the tomato can, that hardly seems fair. I love these vids. They should do more!
The Mini looks like it had put on a few pounds over the years, losing its very identity in the process. The Fiat seems to be the truer compact hatch-back of the two. The Mini seems confused on whether it wants to be small and nimble, or larger and more spacious like a sedan.
stupid luggage space comparison, back folding seats on the Mini...... well fold the Fiat 500 seats back and you can even transport 1.31 mtr tall heavy Infinity loudspeakers in the 500 as I did recently.
You also forgot to mention in terms of reliability, fiat being the entire brand, is known to be one of the worst in reliability. Which brings us to depreciation, is why fiats few years old depreciate so fast, is because they are known to be absolute crap in terms of quality and reliability. Minis in comparison hold their value exceptionally well; I dare anybody to search up a 7 year old mini and compare the price to fiat 500 of same year to prove me wrong.... Minis have improved majorly in reliability and quality, while maintaining fuel efficiency and practicality.
The mini is a better car in general. It provides better value with its higher quality in materials and power. But if you want a car with more personality, I would have the Fiat.
You'll spend the equivalent of 500 in just maintaining mini. The 500 OTOH is just like the Japanese car qeith minimum maintenance costs not to forget the drop dead gorgeous looks of 500.
The try find one that has a 150000 mile Fiat Trump's the mini on that note mini aren't good cars what a shame not only are they bad cars here they are globally bad
how did you come up with the Fiat being unreliable? do you own one? I do, and it’s been BY FAR my most trouble free vehicle ever. MINE AT 189;788 miles with only a battery change and normal wear brake pads done does not add up to a unreliable car...you don’t know what your talking about
You forgot that Mini ALSO has crap reliability. Just look up the TERRIBLE automatic CVTs that have been installed in Minis for years. BMW has been sued time and again over how terrible it is. The Mini also gets RIDICULOUSLY expensive, since, as you begin to load it up, you can get WELL PAST 50K for one!!!!
In the 2014 Consumer Reports Reliability Survey, out of 28 car brands, BMW/Mini ranked #14 and Fiat ranked #28. Basically, Fiat is the worst car brand according to the owners surveyed. Fiats do have better crash rating than Minis according to IIHS.
+cadsux Don't know where on the iihs you got that from, but the fiats fails miserably with the small over lap test. Whereas the mini passes very well. Not to mention the countryman has been best in class safety 4 years in a row now. The fiat 500L is one of the worst in its class. As far as reliability is concerned. New mini's are bullet proof. The main problem with the older ones was the cvt and the French engines, both of which have been taken out. That BMW 2L they're using now is a great engine.
odd, I get 34 on the highway in my Abarth. I can only assume the base 500 does better. As for the Mini..........Tiny cheap car at BMW prices once you add a few options. Looks like Timothy Leary came up with the dash layout during one of his "trips".
MY WIFE AND I BOTH OWN AND DRIVE FIAT 500s...Her's is a POP... and mine is a 500C... we love them... get about 40 MPG... drive them sporting and have had them longer then most anyone here in the USA... we love our cars and ... they are fun, safe, handle great and were much less expensive than the uncomfortable mini cooper... I drove 6 mini coopers before buying our first FIAT500 and that should speak for itself... they are both terrific little cars... but I just preferred the specifics of seating, and drive-ability of the FIATS... I have influenced a small army of folks to also get there butt into a FIAT... that all thank me with smiles on their faces... simple fact is that FIAT at it's low cost gives you more value than MINI does at its high price...
I wish they did better in the IIHS small offset frontal crash..
I bought a new Fiat 500 Pop in 2013 and have not looked back or had a single regret. I'm still driving it 4 years later! The only thing I've done in those 4 years is regular oil changes. I enjoy GREAT gas mileage 30+ mpg in town and about 40 mpg on the highway.
Nan Abbott-Hourigan Hi! I'm thinking about getting the 2012 Fiat 500L used to save a bit of money.. Did you buy yours used?! Also, it's good to hear the reliability was well with you.. I love that it'a a foreign car and hope that maintaince isn't a hassal.
The Mini has gotten too big over the years. It's nice to see that the Fiat 500 hasn't fallen prey to becoming big and bloayed like most other cars on the road
I agree, the Mini now looks a bit like a squished turtle road kill.
+U.P. dan Yep, I was parked yesterday by a Mini. My Abarth is almost half the size! Thats what makes driving these Fiat 500's so much fun! Its like a go cart with air conditioning! ....YO!
The size of the Mini has grown , they are no way near as cool or cute as the originals . They are bigger because of crash safety testing . They made the car as small as they could while maintaining a certain safety standard . It still looks nice though .
> Mini has gotten too big over the years thanks to the USA....
Cough...500l......
the 500 is cheaper to fix then the mini.
I thought so, for having a simpler engine, right?
@@Sanpedranoazul Also for not being a BMW.
That’s a surprise. Fiat 500 as we know it’s the Most unreliable car in the world. At the end, we don’t have a lot of Choice for a small car in the US while Japan have a bunch and lot of them is way smaller than Smart Fortwo.
@@PreciousAlpschindler The North American version definitely has a sketchy reputation. The European version is likely better built since they're still selling very well. The mods owners of the Abarth line are adding to their cars can be a bit insane!
I bought a 2015 North American Fiat 500 Abarth last summer as a tinker toy. I'm spending a lot more on mods than I'm spending on repairs! 😁 The car's holding up very nicely even in the winter.
@@Milnoc my neighbour got an Abarth too and it’s really cool car and I hear it everyday.
The Fiat is more fun to drive, that's important
rich kemp mini has been shit for the past 20 years sir.
I know this is an older video but they forgot the reliability category. Mini not only has more frequent mechanical issues they are also more expensive to fix. If I were trying to decide between the two, this alone would sway my vote to the Fiat 500
You’re right
I like fiat 500
The Mini has grown so much that it's not really "mini" any more. The design might have been fun and fresh when it first came out as an modern interpretation of the original, but after three generations of "interpretation" and growth, it's just not fun anymore.
Sorry guys I'm going with the fiat, I paid forty two thousand for my last vehicle in 2009 and I'm still more in love with the fiat. I've driven both but like the fiat more. It's just sexy where the mini looks like nans car.
I've had my Fiat 500 Abarth for 2 days short of a month. In 1971, I was the 1st person in Buffalo, NY to own a Datsun 204Z when they became available here. The 240Z was a truly revolutionary car when it was introduced. Prior to that I had a Triumph TR4, a MGB GT, and a Saab Sonnet. I'm now seventy one, but I don't think my memory is failing me. I can tell you this is more fun to drive than any of those sports cars were. As Jay Leno commented, "You can't drive this car without a smile on your face". Oh, and additionally, at seventy one, I like that you site a little higher than the Mini. Old guys like me can get in and out of it easily. I do believe they're a bit cheaper to maintain and service. You don't need to take it to a BMW dealer. I VOTE FOR THE FIAT 500 ABARTH!
In America Fiat means excellent value, great build quality, most fun ever and most importantly, the Fiat 500 can terrorize the Mini on the highway as it screams pass, leaving the Mini driver in total shock and awe.
it looks better than the mini, the mini looks dated
The Mini looks a lot like the Fiat 500L. That's not a compliment.
Ha ha ha - In your dreams
As a used car dealer and seeing both cars with around 80,000 miles the Fiat gets back all the points and more. The Mini has sooo many more problems.
Fiat 500 is not a sub-compact. Misleading title invalid comparison.
Fiat 500 = Minicompact. Compare it to things like the IQ, ForTwo, Spark, etc.
They are comparing interior space... knowing that one car is substantially bigger and not even the same size-class. What a joke. Vehicle size-classification is based solely on interior space!
I love the Mini but it's no longer a rival to a 500. The Mini is no longer mini. Leave these 2 cars be and quit comparing them. It's like comparing a Ford Focus to a Fiesta.
Oddly enough, even though the Mini is significantly larger than the Fiat, all of its interior dimensions (head, shoulder, leg) are only about 1" larger. The only exception is rear seat leg room. The Mini has 1" LESS rear seat legroom than the Fiat.
Mini and fiat are the two cars that I’m looking into buying. All other cars in their classes are super lame, not classics, so comparing these two cars is exactly what I’m looking for (niche)
Mopar Magic for short bobo😁
When looking for my first car, I saw a 2010 Fiat 500 for $6,500 and a 2007 Mini Cooper R56 base for $5,000 at the same dealership and they both had a similar number of miles on them.
While I still liked the Fiat, it felt kind of cheap and I've always been told to stay away from Crystlers. It was more expensive and it was in my least favorite color (white) so I went over to look at the Mini
I began to fall in love with the Mini instantly. As soon as I sat down in it, I was pretty much sold on it. It was so comfortable and the interior was so well made and designed. Gorgeous inside and out.
4 months later, that Mini is my baby and I love it so much. Sure, the repairs are expensive, but it's worth it in my opinion. I think I'll only drive Minis for the rest of my life lol
The 500 easily
the mini is the most overpriced can with wheels.
rich kemp as an owner of a Mini Cooper s I have to tell you that mini is overpriced just for the brand. It is pathetic car and damaged all the time. This is not “a mini”. I am selling this shit to buy a lovely fiat 500!!!
@@nobel1840 you guys are a joke lmao. the first gen bmw minis are great and affordable and fun, but the news ones arent so much
@@kallumcoekin3401 it’s a nice car. But I still believe that’s overpriced.
@@nobel1840 oh yeah 100%, but the 1 gen ones are pretty reasonable especially right now, but yeah the news ones aren’t even really minis
The styling of the mini is 'heavy-handed' and ugly. The Fiat is far more subtle and chic.
Fiats look like fucking insects with wheels.
Exactly, anthropomorphically cute...
Michael Cuffe The fiat its looks Cartoon from the looney toons
the Fiat looks much nicer than the Mini..Michael is right
wow is that dumb
I'm always going to be a Fiat girl! I have a Fiat 500 Gucci. Everywhere I go, people look and stare then compliment.
Good one! xD
[ J o n e l ] Collections the Gucci model is rare and hard to find, my friend wrecked a convertible Gucci and she got 6000 more then blue book because of its rarity
You know just because their avatar is of a female it doesn't mean it's an actual photo of the poster, right? The OP is a dude. xD
I'm a Fiat girl too! Cheers from Poland!
fiat is ugly bitch
Which one do you want when you need a repair? I have a 500C, and have had a mini S. The repairs on the mini were twice as expensive. And more frequently required. I’ve had my 500C for 4 years now. Oil changes and tires. That’s it. The Minimwas a little problematic.
I love "Cinquecento" 🇮🇹
I would have loved to hear about the measurements of these two cars. Which one is longer? Which one is wider? That's something people in crowded cities may need to know.
Fiat 500 all the way!!!! Style, value and fun. And a whole lot nicer on your bank account.
Loyd Gravitt did u know that Fiat has one of the worst engines in the world? It’s fast but they break down a lot.
wow is your info wrong. The Fiat 500 does not have one of the worst engines...and. no they are not fast at all...and finally they hardly ever break dow......you obviously are not familiar AT ALL with the Fiat 500
brian salmon no, last year Drive Magazine announced the list for best relieable engine. Fiat was right down the bottom. Mini was in the middle (just above the middle) so that settles it for engines...
no that does not settle it for the engines. The engine on the Fiat 500 is not at all on the bottom of the list. It’s a very, very good engine with next to no problems at all. Overall, the Fiat 500 is a lot more trouble free than the goofy Mini Cooper
i love both but i'd rather have a fiat
The comments here are the best. Point to FIAT for inspiring love/ loyalty like no other car brand. We just can’t help but fall hopelessly for little guys. And yup- FIAT all day for me too. Sure, Mini wins for power/ tricked out interior, but I’m not sure it lives up to the expectations of it. With FIAT, you’ll be forever surprised with how much you get out of this minimalist package.
Which one of these sub-compact cars should have won - The MINI or FIAT?
Seriously, it's not even close, the Mini hands down, but to be honesty I would not pick either
500 looks okay (color mainly) but 110% the Mini Cooper i mean really? Is this a trick question?
***** vvbhvkl
+agi anghel this was in the 80-90's, nowadays with millions invested on technology all cars are very reliable.
The Fiat would win hands down, especially in looks
I have one Mini One 2009 and a Fiat 500 2017, both amazing and gorgeous!
Unfortunately the mini’s automatic transmission has proven to be problematic and extremely expensive to repair. My point goes to the Fiat.
i think the fiat looks and handles better
No
What years are the cars?
Here in the Uk, the Mini Cooper is in a much higher price bracket to the smaller Fiat 500, making this review totally irrelevant for people living outside America.
The Mini is better built, and has a higher quality interior, so comparing both cars is totally misleading.
I love the hell out of my Fiat 500 and get countless positive comments. That said, the Mini Cooper is the more handsome of the two. I want one of each!
for myself, the Fiat is 20 times better looking than the increasingly large Mini
I've test driven both manual and automatic transmission of a 2011 mini cooper (NON S VERSION). The Manual drove fantastically all the while the automatic while it auto downshifted felt like a rookie was downshifting for the first time, it felt really bad. I will add that that was only test driving one of each and that may not be the case of all other automatic. In the end I chose the manual, more fun on the road. better for winter with the control.
And I will add that having a high mount shift stick would've been perfect for the mini.
If you're on a budget, go with Fiat. I bought a used 2013 Fiat 500 Sport with 30K miles, mint condition with one owner for only $8000. Also...if you live far away from a BMW/MINI dealership, forget getting a MINI, unless you're highly skilled in car maintenance.
More personal experience/opinions below...
Owned two Mini Coopers. 2008 Cooper S (30K miles), 2012 Cooper S, both manual (88K miles). They're insanely expensive to maintain, make sure to get a good service warranty, and a tire & wheel contract. Especially if you live in a state with poorly maintained roads like Missouri. Tire & Wheel policy saved me $400+ on two Eagle Sport tire replacements, and I was later able to sell the contract back for a partial refund. From what GEICO told me, my fully insured auto policy does NOT cover the wheels, they're considered wear and tear.
Roadside assistance insurance is required for MINI. MINI was nice enough to include most MINIs tools to put on a spare but forgot to include the spare. Repairs: Spent over $4K in repairs on most recent MINI (2012 Mini Cooper S, 6 spd). Had it for 88K thru 97K miles. Most places around me in KC metro would not work on Mini, at least all the places I called. For example, I got turned down recently by Walmart and Goodyear for a simple oil change.
Last week I took my Mini to the dealership (BMW/MINI), for an in-depth checkup, and I needed another $1400 in repairs. Said the hell with that, traded it for the Fiat mentioned above. I sit a bit higher, it's roomy in the front, get a bit better gas mileage. It's comfortable. Definitely lacks in power, I'll either have to turn on Sport Mode, or shift down into 4th to pass vehicles sometimes.
Fiat 500 Sport doesn't look as nice, is not as comfortable and fun to drive but gets better gas mileage for manual transmissions (40+ Hwy mpg). While I was able to safely, and comfortably drive on the highway, my FIAT feels more like something intended for mainly city transportation, for errands and such.
Fiat 500 for me :)
if only the mini didn't get bigger due to people buying less smaller cars
These guys don't know what they are talking about. Mini has horrible reliability. I would also like to say that heavy does not equate to quality, substantial feeling, or refinement! I have over 75K averaging 35mpg commuting into downtown LA! It is a pop and the engine is not gutless if you know how to drive and use the revs and don't lug the poor thing.
I think the comparison is kinda unfair because the modern version of the fiat hasn't been out all that long, they haven't had the same amount of time to develop the modern version like the mini, i'll admit i'm mini bias and i'm judging based off of the american versions, but I do hold an expectation that the fiat will catch up to a more even match with the mini as time goes on. These two are definitely cars to keep an eye on in the future.
'aricaturas
that guy can sell the Mini all he wants...it doesn’t matter to me how much more car you get with Mini, or if the Mini is faster etc., because I like the looks of the Fiat 10 thousand times more than the Mini. For myself, the Mini is a complete eye sore in looks....ish
I test drove the basic fiat 500.. it's like a completely different car to the (US) Abarth - so slow/no feel.. the Abarth 500 in reality sells much less than the sticker price here in the US.. mine was 19K USD - the Cooper S would have been significantly more expensive at the time (2014).. no doubt about it the materials in the Fiat interior are crappy... but it's so much fun to drive (the Abarth). 25K miles.. no problems so far.. just oil changes.. and new tires.
"Fiat is barely faster than the base mini.." - Standard Fiat 500 turbo should not be compared to mini Cooper S. You should check out The Abarth 595, 695 Competzione, Essesse and Biposto and re-do this comparison. The last mentioned would rival the mini JCW GP, or at least come closer even though the mini is generally faster due to its bigger motor. But, there is also a weight difference of almost 200kg, and a huge difference in handling due to the different seating positions & wheel base measurements, which surprisingly makes these cars quite different. The mini feels more like a quick golf, and the fiat stands out more as a unique driving machine. One more thing, family trips with two adults and two kids in both of these cars is no problem. You just have to travel light :)
I like the Fiat...I saw one in the parking lot when I went to the store. The lime green color is super cute! I like the toy-like look. I love the sub-compact. I like it TINY!
500 is one of the most beautiful cars ever made. Mini Cooper isn't even close to it.
surprise, the English guy rated the English car higher. I wouldn't trade my 500 for a fleet of minis.
Which one is going to leave you stranded on the side of the street? Oh... thats right, both will.
Ha, good one :)
I've have my Abarth for 4 years now. It hasn't left me stranded yet.
Oh, that’s right, you don’t know what your talking about. Mine 2012 Fiat 500 has 199,201 miles on it and All I had done was normal wear front brakes, a second battery ,and my drivers window adjusted under warranty. The Fiat 500 is VERY reliable...you are clueless about this car, obviously
I would go with the MINI, even though it's overpriced. I don't trust anything from Chrysler-Fiat
reliability and repair cost? mini's will eat you alive!
The new Mini has become so ugly.
I have to agree...also huge
I actually disagree. The mini look very vintage and I live for that
The Mini is my easy win but they can easily option above 30 grand with the 3 cylinder.
I've owned both; a 2003 Mini Cooper (purchased new) and a 2013 Fiat 500 (purchased used in '16). IMHO the newer MINIs lack the sporty suspension which shows in it's mushy handling (as was test driven in 2009). Thus showing it becoming more a family car and less of a sports car. The MINI did poorly in snow (got stuck in 4") whereas the Fiat sliced right through 8"+. MPG: My Fiat is getting mid 30's in the winter (time spent warming up on those really cold Northern Wisconsin mornings) and mid 40's when cruising the highways in the summer, even with the AC blasting away. I don't think the MINI ever hit 40 mpg. As some else posted, essentially this video is comparing apples to oranges. The MINI may be a bit more classier, but it is NOT a Fiat 500! (Might I add, MINI CVT needed to be replaced in its first year.)
Here in Ecuador you can buy 2 fiats 500 for the price of the cooper 😉
I love both cars ..same Spirit ❤❤🤗
Fiat has a poor reputation in the UK that nowadays is unfounded. By the early 1990's they had sorted most of the problems out and as you stood by the cars going through at motor auctions in the early 2000's this was clear to see. Fiat had solid bodies while the Astra's and Escorts where showing signs of corrosion. Old prejudices die hard but I have had Fiat as a second car since 1987 and now run Alfa Romeo. I wouldn't hesitate, Fiats are fun to drive in a way that the bloated mixed up Mini can only press its nose up at the window. And no, I don't work for Fiat.
I really want a Smart v. Mini comparison
i hope the mini goes back to being mini(no bigger then 146 inchs), something about the front end of the f56 is unnerving.
While I LOVE and own a new Cooper, they are NOT cheap. Most Coopers S models do not start at 24k. The cheapest I've seen around was approx. 27k with ZERO options. With any options at all, they were closer to 30k. Even my moderately optioned Base model was approx. 27k.
Just bring back the original mini cooper, with a modern engine..suspension, and gearbox...
You spend a lot more time in the fix it shop with the mini.
Women dont want Mini's! ;) ...YO!
Mini is better quality, upscale, and classic. The Fiat 500 is just cheap, nothing else
Check the JD Powers list
You guys do relise that Mini, is achually british, only two versions are made outside of the UK.
Wrong ..... I am almost positive the Mini is Austrian , German car either way . Britians just made it popular .
diceman2004 No it's british
i like them both, they are both fun little cars
I love how Edmunds adds tension to a fight that is completely one sided. Seriously, doesn't the fiat look like a pregnant smart car? And why do they always make Mike defend the tomato can, that hardly seems fair. I love these vids. They should do more!
seriously, does your comment on the Fiat sound dumb? yes it does. The Fiat looks NOTHING like a Smart car...also the 500 is excellent looking
Throw out the categories Fiat is an elegant car pure Italian and super easy to work on change out parts etc. Fiat wins!! end of story
The Mini looks like it had put on a few pounds over the years, losing its very identity in the process. The Fiat seems to be the truer compact hatch-back of the two. The Mini seems confused on whether it wants to be small and nimble, or larger and more spacious like a sedan.
stupid luggage space comparison, back folding seats on the Mini...... well fold the Fiat 500 seats back and you can even transport 1.31 mtr tall heavy Infinity loudspeakers in the 500 as I did recently.
Хех! Услышав прекрасный британский акцент я ни на секунду не сомневался в том, как окончится сюжет))))) Не благодарите))!!
Fiat wins. Mini is way too awkward
You also forgot to mention in terms of reliability, fiat being the entire brand, is known to be one of the worst in reliability. Which brings us to depreciation, is why fiats few years old depreciate so fast, is because they are known to be absolute crap in terms of quality and reliability.
Minis in comparison hold their value exceptionally well; I dare anybody to search up a 7 year old mini and compare the price to fiat 500 of same year to prove me wrong....
Minis have improved majorly in reliability and quality, while maintaining fuel efficiency and practicality.
its almost a tie....both are beautiful fun to drive and "UNRELIABLE" LOL
The mini is a better car in general. It provides better value with its higher quality in materials and power. But if you want a car with more personality, I would have the Fiat.
You'll spend the equivalent of 500 in just maintaining mini. The 500 OTOH is just like the Japanese car qeith minimum maintenance costs not to forget the drop dead gorgeous looks of 500.
Feeyaat 500 vs Mini Cooper
Fiat hands down. Just bought a used 12 500 pop and ready to find a Arbrath.
Why do you say Chrysler ?
fiat 500
I'm here not to find out which is best, just to get confirmation that the car I prefer (the mini) is the best. If you say otherwise you're lying...=P
Decent argument
I like the Fiat ... The Mini looks like a short cartoon station wagon.
The Fiat is gorgeous but the Mini is the better one.
I prefer the look of the fiat
FIAT 500C 😍🥰
5:01 LOOOL Fiat got owned.
No poseen objetividad en su test de comparación...
Mini is 100% better
The MINI!
最早的灵感来源于谁
mini is better
Fiat is much better
British bias
The Mini is a Mini ! Well it is if you have a pig in a thong .
ABARTH = CHARLIE SHEEN! .....''WINNING!'' ....YO!
The Mini Cooper seems snobby
The try find one that has a 150000 mile Fiat Trump's the mini on that note mini aren't good cars what a shame not only are they bad cars here they are globally bad
stop using the word "Trump"
Mini is an absolute joke of a car.
Both get passed by the Fiesta. Period.
Very untrue. Not to mention, the Fiesta is quite a boring turd on wheels compared to a beautiful Fiat 500, period.
Mini - shitt
i dont wanna see your faces I want to see cars
Honda fit wins.
LMFAO Honda "fat"
The Honda Fit also wins the ugly stick award...it’s a boring turd on wheels.
This mini guy is annoying
Mini is farrrrrr better than unreliable Fiat
how did you come up with the Fiat being unreliable? do you own one? I do, and it’s been BY FAR my most trouble free vehicle ever. MINE AT 189;788 miles with only a battery change and normal wear brake pads done does not add up to a unreliable car...you don’t know what your talking about
Fiat unreliable, what are u smoking.
Fiat has crap reliability and crap resale value. Cooper has one of the highest resale values. Why is there even a comparison ?
You forgot that Mini ALSO has crap reliability. Just look up the TERRIBLE automatic CVTs that have been installed in Minis for years. BMW has been sued time and again over how terrible it is. The Mini also gets RIDICULOUSLY expensive, since, as you begin to load it up, you can get WELL PAST 50K for one!!!!
In the 2014 Consumer Reports Reliability Survey, out of 28 car brands, BMW/Mini ranked #14 and Fiat ranked #28. Basically, Fiat is the worst car brand according to the owners surveyed. Fiats do have better crash rating than Minis according to IIHS.
Thought this comparison was about which is the best when you driving them not when you selling nor fixing them.
+cadsux Don't know where on the iihs you got that from, but the fiats fails miserably with the small over lap test. Whereas the mini passes very well. Not to mention the countryman has been best in class safety 4 years in a row now. The fiat 500L is one of the worst in its class. As far as reliability is concerned. New mini's are bullet proof. The main problem with the older ones was the cvt and the French engines, both of which have been taken out. That BMW 2L they're using now is a great engine.
odd, I get 34 on the highway in my Abarth. I can only assume the base 500 does better. As for the Mini..........Tiny cheap car at BMW prices once you add a few options. Looks like Timothy Leary came up with the dash layout during one of his "trips".
the fix it again tony is cheap looking. drives ok. Mini is much better car.
how fuckin original