The MINI Cooper Convertible
Published: 14th May 2004
MINI Cooper Convertible
Smart cabrio with a high utility value
The MINI Cooper Convertible is the result of a cleverly devised overall concept comprising a high degree of functionality and optimum utilisation of space. It is not long before the driver experiences the enjoyment of open-air driving, as the roof folds back fully automatically in a mere 15 seconds. At the push of a button, you first open the integrated sliding roof, then the entire soft roof. With the soft roof folding to the rear, the roof pillars are automatically retracted and the rear side windows move down at the same time. The intelligent Z-folding mechanism allows the complete roof to fold up in compact arrangement behind the rear seats, with no need for a tonneau cover.
The sliding roof integrated in the soft top can be opened infinitely up to 40 cm or 15¾´´ while driving, up to a speed of 120 km/h or 75 mph. Clearly, a feature quite unprecedented in the convertible market.
Compact but versatile
The MINI Convertible has a drop-down boot lid which is held in position when open by two steel cables on a spring-mounted retractor system. This allows use of the rear lid with its exterior hinges as a practical loading platform able to hold a weight of up to 80 kg or 176 lb.The MINI Convertible is able to carry a maximum of 400 kg or 882 lb, and the luggage compartment accommodates 165 litres with the roof closed. And even with the roof down, driving in the open air, luggage compartment capacity remains a substantial 120 litres.
Those who wish to get even more out of this agile little car can make use of the generous Easy Load through-loading system designed for even the most bulky of loads. With the roof closed, all you do is turn two levers in the luggage compartment to fold up the bottom section of the folding top and attach it in position. Then, with the rear lid open, you have very convenient access to the luggage compartment through a large opening able to accommodate even bulky objects. And in conjunction with the rear seat backrests folding forward and fastened securely in position, luggage compartment capacity can be increased to no less than 605 litres.
