Talking further on special edition models of the Mini Cooper and Cooper S celebrating nearly 60 years since this diminutive flying brick came to our attention in the early 60’s. I tested the Mini Cooper S 60-year edition automatic three door hatch at $46,700, a premium small hatch with a premium price but Mini claim it has $8,500 in extra value for its $4,000 price lift over the standard Cooper S. To my way of thinking the three-door Mini makes a lot of sense while the five-door and long-wheelbase models don’t grab me at all. The 2.0-litre turbo and 7-speed automatic with manual shift paddles proved an absolute cracker to drive – responsive, nimble with fabulous braking this is a real driver’s car – much larger of course to the original Mini but despite this it remains an iconic design. Certainly as tested the 2.0-litre turbo Mini Cooper S 60-year edition really appealed to me – very nicely built and finished, remember Mini is owned by BMW, and the interior is a standout – I found the large round centre screen well designed, best activated by the rotary dial – the interior well-thought out with good ergonomics, my only gripe access to the back seat which is awkward and not user friendly. Warranty is also not best in class at 3 years/unlimited while surprisingly it only comes with a four-star not five-star ANCAP safety rating. The Mini Cooper S 60-year edition may be a car for the true believers but it’s a very competent sports performer. I’m David Berthon.

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