MINI Cooper

 

A few weeks ago, my husband and I bought a new car, a 2008 MINI Cooper. You have to understand that I am not a car-crazed female, and this will not be a post that will appeal to true automobile buffs, but a MINI is a car that I have been wanting for years. 

We wrongly assumed that we could not afford it and that it would be too small. Well, this was more my husband that me. Being a professional photographer, I tend to lug around a lot of equipment on a regular basis, and I am happy to say that I can get everything (4 tripods, 3 large lights, a portable backdrop with 2 additional tripods, large camera bag, extra electrical cords, plus a briefcase, laptop, and purse) into our new MINI. 

I knew all of this would fit because when I took one out for a test drive a few years ago, I brought everything with me. I’m sure the sales man thought me a bit odd, but he seemed happy enough to help me pack up the little car. Of course, there isn’t much room left for a passenger, but its the same story when I use our 4-door sedan.

If you also have space concerns, I suggest you do the same when you test drive a MINI, but be reasonable, it’s called a MINI for a reason. It is smaller than most cars, which makes it ideal for us. While it will seat four, the leg room in the back is not the best, but the Clubman model is much roomier.

The MINI is also quite affordable. Prices will range, depending on the model you choose, and whether it’s new or used, but more importantly, the MINI is also great on gas! I’ve been driving this little car around for 2 weeks now, and I haven’t had to fill up yet! I expect to get around 700 km (420 miles) per tank. 

The other thing about the MINI is that it is a treat to drive. Made by BMW, the engineering can’t be beat and it’s evident from the moment you start driving that this is one spunky little car. You can get an automatic transmission, but we opted to go with the standard. It’s been a long time since I’ve driven a standard, but after a few embarrassing stalls, I got the hang of it again very quickly. 

I suggest, that if you are buying new, you go with all of  protective features that are offered. After all, you will want to keep your MINI looking great for many years to come.

 

Click here for copyright permissions! 
Copyright 2008 Sandy King