Across all of its three trims, the Mini Cooper Convertible comes with a standard engine option. This unit under the hood of the hatchback is a turbocharged inline-3 engine that is mated to a 6-speed manual transmission unit. Together, the duo of the engine and transmission churns out 134hp of power and 162 lb.-ft of torque. As standard, all the power generated is transferred to the front wheels of the Cooper Convertible and surprisingly, there is no other drivetrain configuration available for the buyers to choose from.
Despite its lower power outputs, the Mini Cooper Convertible manages to compete neck-and-neck with its rivals when acceleration is concerned. The hatchback can sprint from 0-60 mph in a matter of 6.2 seconds, which is on par with the segment standards. Additionally, it takes 14.7 seconds to the quarter-mile mark, and records a top speed of 120 MPH, making it a quick and steady performer.
Model
|
2019 Mini Cooper Convertible
|
2019 Mazda MX-5 Miata
|
2019 Fiat 124 Spider
|
MSRP
|
$26,900
|
$25,730
|
$25,190
|
Engine
|
1.5L turbocharged inline-3
|
2.0L inline-4
|
1.4L turbocharged inline-4
|
Transmission
|
6-speed manual
|
6-speed manual
|
6-speed manual
|
Drivetrain
|
FWD
|
RWD
|
RWD
|
Power
|
134 hp
|
181 hp
|
160 hp
|
Torque
|
162 lb.-ft
|
151 lb.-ft
|
184 lb.-ft
|
0-60 mph (seconds)
|
6.2 seconds
|
6.1 seconds
|
6.2 seconds
|
Quarter-mile (seconds)
|
14.7 seconds
|
14.4 seconds
|
14.7 seconds
|
Top Speed
|
120 MPH
|
135 MPH
|
136 MPH
|
When pitted against its rivals, the Mini Cooper Convertible has the most distinct setup under its hood. Both the Mazda and Fiat offerings come with inline-4 units and produce higher power outputs, with the former leading the segment by churning out 181hp. On the other hand, 2019 124 Spider is the torquiest option and also manages to record the highest top speed of 136 MPH. While it does have a similar 6-speed manual transmission as the others, its clunky nature might be a hindrance in its likability.
In terms of performance, however, it is difficult to declare a certain winner in the segment. All three options in comparison here are equally matched and the recorded timings in the 60mph sprint are eerily similar. And though the Mazda MX-5 Miata is slightly better in the quarter-mile sprint clocking 14.4 seconds, the difference is only fractional, and would not be a deciding factor for the traditional buyers.
2019 Mini Cooper Convertible Ride and Handling
Keeping in mind its maneuverable dimensions and easy-to-drive capabilities, the Mini Cooper Convertible creates a favorable impression for itself in the market. It is built to solve dual purposes and acts as the perfect companion in the city limits and also the open stretches of the highway. It benefits from a responsive steering system, which is accurately weighted and has ample feedback to offer. While it goes unsaid, like every other option from Mini, the Cooper is not built to be driven off-the-road.
When put to test at high speeds and in corners, the Cooper manages to uphold its authentic character and delivers rather impressively. It comes with a finely-tuned suspension system that is perfect for everyday requirements and even in the absence of an AWD configuration, the ride remains stable throughout. The standard 6-speed manual transmission unit works without delays and confusion, aiding the overall ride quality. However, unlike the Mazda MX-5 Miata, Mini’s hatchback remains devoid of an optional automatic transmission unit.
2019 Mini Cooper Convertible Braking Performance
The 2019 Mini Cooper Convertible is the heaviest option in the segment and gets fitted with a smaller set of brakes. The brake rotors of the Mini Cooper Convertible measure 11 and 10.2 inches at the front and rear, respectively. It comes to a halt at 119 ft from 60 mph, which is the highest in the segment, but it does not feel underwhelming, whatsoever. Additionally, it comes with automatic braking assists to improve its deceleration performance.
Model
|
2019 Mini Cooper Convertible
|
2019 Mazda MX-5 Miata
|
2019 Fiat 124 Spider
|
Brake (front) (in)
|
11
|
11
|
11
|
Brake (rear) (in)
|
10.2
|
11
|
11
|
Curb Weight (lbs)
|
2,855 lbs
|
2,339 lbs
|
2,436 lbs
|
60-0 mph (ft)
|
119 ft
|
112 ft
|
111 ft
|
When compared to its rivals, the Mazda MX-5 Miata and Fiat 124 Spider both come with 11-inch brake rotors at the front and rear. Both these convertible options are considerably lighter than the Mini Cooper Convertible and as a result, deliver better performance in comparison. While the Mazda comes to a halt at 112 ft, the Fiat 124 Spider is diminutively better and takes only 111ft to achieve a similar feat.