The retro charm in the compact Mini Cooper and Fiat
500 is the main reason they both remain a favorite among small car enthusiasts. With their economic running costs and city-friendly style, it is no wonder these unique models are so popular. But which one is the better choice? The Fiat vs. Mini Cooper comparison may not be as competitive as you might think. Each brand offers its own plusses and minuses and one-of-a-kind personality. Whether you decide on the classic Mini Cooper or the Fiat 500, you will want to make sure you have the best car insurance
your money can buy. The Mini Cooper is sporty and fun to drive
There is no denying that much the Mini Cooper's appeal has more than a little to do with its quirky styling. The Mini's big round headlights, flat roof, and chrome grille seem to borrow from another era of automobile history. Its unique design character is easily recognizable on the streets.
The Mini Cooper doesn't disappoint discerning drivers either. With three powertrains to choose from, the Mini is surprisingly powerful for its size. The base model offers a 134-hp turbocharged three-cylinder engine known for its great gas mileage of 29 mpg city and 40 mpg highway. Even the high-performance models, including the John Cooper Works, offer impressive gas mileage ratings.
Autotrader
points out that though the Mini Cooper initially had performance problems, it was given an above average reliability rating by J.D. Power. The Mini also packs in a lot of technology for its size: a state-of-the-art navigation system, back-up camera, and a decent infotainment system with smartphone integration.How they compare: Fiat vs. Mini Cooper
Like the Mini, the Fiat 500 takes a retro approach to its design style. You will find the same smooth front and sloping rear end you would expect to find in a classic car from days gone by. The Fiat 500 offers more legroom than the Mini Cooper, but the sloping rear hatch takes up a lot of headspace, according to Auto Express
. The Fiat 500's more diminutive size and smaller engines gives it a slight advantage over the Mini when it comes to gas mileage. The base model's 1.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine gets approximately 31 mpg in the city and 40 on the highway. Both the Fiat 500 and the Mini Cooper provide adequate and modern safety features.
As far as performance, the Mini's John Cooper Works and Cooper S models excel when compared to the Fiat 500. The zippy handling, progressive power controls, and overall agile responses make these performance Mini Cooper models as fun to drive as they are to look at. They beat out the Fiat 500 hands down.
MORE: These Cute Cars Aren't All Style and No Substance
Fiat 500 vs. Mini Cooper—which one should you buy?
Despite their similarities, the Fiat 500 and the Mini Cooper are less alike than you might initially think. The Mini unquestionably outperforms the Fiat 500 in handling and power capabilities. This is true on every Mini model, though Fiat's 500 Abarth offers a similar but not quite equal punch.
The first and most noticeable difference between the two cars is the price. The Fiat 500 has a starting price of $17,900 while the basic Mini Cooper sells for $21,700 with available options costing extra. Drivers have to decide which is the better value for their own needs and whether the extra investment is worth the Mini's obvious perks.
The Mini Cooper is the better choice if you want a touch of luxury, a nicer cabin, and more features in every model. The Fiat 500, which is no longer sold or produced in North America, is still ideal for those wanting a budget-priced subcompact city car.
MORE: The Least Fuel-Efficient Subcompact Car Will Cost You $3,000 a Year in Gas
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