2005 Mini Cooper: Tester's Comments
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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.














