2005 Mini Cooper: Tester's Comments

Archived Review

2005 Mini Cooper 

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  • MSRP: $16,950 -$24,900
  • Invoice: $15,255 -$22,410

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Find out what the Consumer Guide Automotive testers had to say about the 2005 Mini Cooper. See if the 2005 Mini Cooper is right for you.

Vehicle Evaluated


Make/Model: 2005 Mini Cooper
Trim Level: Base
Arrival Date: 06/17/2005
Engine: dohc I4
Bodystyle 2-door convertible
Transmission: 5-speed manual
4WD/AWD: No
Base Price: 20,950
Price as Tested: 23,520
Mileage at Beginning of Test: 4033
Mileage at End of Test: 4585
Total Measured Miles: 552
Total Fuel Used: 23.583 gals.
Consumer Guide Fuel Economy: 23.41 mpg (what's this?)
Problems During Test: None
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Major Options

Hot Orange Metallic, Sunrise Dark Blue Cloth/Leather, Combo #2 Sport (Dynamic Stability Control {DSC}, Sport Seats, Front Fog Lamps, 16-inch Allowy Wheels, Performance Run-flat Tires), Multifunction Steering Wheel with Cruise Control, Chrome Line Exterior, Dark Blue Soft Top, Park Distance Control, Cockpit Chrome Pkg., On-Board Computer

From the Back Seat

Chuck Giametta

Hardly a more charming car is available at any cost. Very well made, sophisticated in its handling and design, and with a surprising degree of utility once you get to know it.

Kirk Bell

I love the Mini, and I love convertibles, but given the utility compromises inherent with the Mini convertible, I'd choose the S hatchback.

Tom Appel

Not digging on this bronze color, but even a base Mini Cooper is a joy to flog, and the top-down element only enhances the charm. If I were single, remotely interesting to woman, and didn't worry about looking like soccer ball stuffed in a tube sock, I'd consider the Mini.

Vehicle Evaluated


Make/Model: 2005 Mini Cooper
Trim Level: Base
Arrival Date: 05/19/2005
Engine: dohc I4
Bodystyle 2-door convertible
Transmission: 5-speed manual
4WD/AWD: No
Base Price: 21,450
Price as Tested: 25,220
Mileage at Beginning of Test: 2302
Mileage at End of Test: 3006
Total Measured Miles: 704
Total Fuel Used: 25.4776 gals.
Consumer Guide Fuel Economy: 27.63 mpg (what's this?)
Problems During Test: None
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Major Options

British Racing Green Metallic Paint, Cordoba Beige Soft Leather, Anthracite Trim, Multifunction Steering Wheel with Cruise Control, Chrome Lined Interior and Exterior, 6-way Adjustable sport Seats, Park Distance Control, Automatic Air Conditioning, On-Board Computer

From the Back Seat

Mark Bilek

Mini Cooper convertible is a fun-to-drive car for weekend getaways, but as a daily driver you quickly become disenchanted by terrible rearward visibility and a choppy ride. In addition, climate controls and window switches are poorly designed for easy operation. Sad to say, but this vehicle reminds me of the 1995-2003 VW Cabrio. It is more fun to drive, but less fun to live with.

Rick Cotta

Great fun and good value for a convertible, but due to poor rear visibility, limited cargo room, and added rattles, I'd rather have a coupe with MINI's big sunroof.

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