this has nothing to do with your post again. but i started looking at other cars. i dont think the first generation camaro is ever going to be sitting in my driveway. i dont know your email and i didnt wanna ask ellen so im posting here. ive been looking at the new mini cooper S though. it looks like a nice car...any words to say about it?

yeah here's some words. Keep dreaming!

yeah rich, thats why daddy and i were looking at them the other day.

The mini is well regarded by the automotive press. It's seen as a BMW quality sedan at a Honda price. Unlike the "new beetle", the layout is thought to be very good, and the quality is seen as characteristically German (i.e., very good).

Compared to its Japanese competition, the Mini is a little pricey. The Cooper more so. However, its styling is unique, and its performance is on par if not better than the "rice burner" competition. It won't outrun a Mustang or Camaro, but it should have more than enough power to get out of the way.

A Cooper will hold its resale value longer, but if price were an option I would lean more toward a well-equipped "regular" Mini. What you'll give up in horsepower (and street-light drag racing, which I don't think you plan on doing that much of) you'll make up for in a nice interior and sound system. And, if the price is less, you'll be more likely to get it in the first place. However, if you were to get the Cooper you almost certainly would be able to dust your brother in a drag race, which does have its advantages.

FWIW, the Mini Cooper S is a car I myself am seriously considering. It's got Alfa quirkiness, at a Honda price.

*would be able to dust your brother in a drag race, which does have its advantages.* Something Scott has never been able to do :-)