2003 MINI Cooper Review: Exterior

The Mini is low, wide, and short, with short overhangs. The wheels are set as far out to the four corners as possible, enhancing stability in turns and reducing hobby-horsing on bumpy straights. Measuring 97.1 inches, the wheelbase is longer than some small cars. But the Mini is shorter overall, at 142.8 inches (less than 12 feet).

The hood is wide, but short in depth, the product of unique design and manufacturing techniques. The big round doe-eyed headlights (which go up with the hood) are partly responsible for the common reaction of "Oh-h-h, isn't it CUTE!" Actually, this response was by intent, not chance. Mini designers also threw in what they consider to be some voluptuous feminine curves and some masculine muscular bulges to cover all the visceral reactions. Thus the Mini is neither Guy Wheels nor a Chick Car. It is an engaging automotive device with an appeal that stretches across gender, age and economic status. That toaster-body shape of the Mini is functional: it gives anyone riding in either back or front seats adult headroom, something that arch-shaped body designs (such as the Beetle) cannot do.