A fabulous love affair... but will it last?

2006 MINI Cooper S Convertible (Photo: Michel Deslauriers, Auto123.com)

I spot her for the first time... and as I approach, I can't resist wanting to get to know her better. She's sexy, athletic, and just begs for attention. She's the one you're dying to bring to a gathering of friends, or a public venue, and make everyone jealous. And, whenever you want, she'll take off her top for you. Oh my god... I'm in love!

After a week, though, you'll discover things about her that will make you wonder how long this romance will last. Oh, all I've said above still applies, but there are certain things about her that you just might not stand very long.

Oh by the way, I'm talking about a droptop MINI Cooper.

2006 MINI Cooper S Convertible (Photo: Michel Deslauriers, Auto123.com)

Gorgeous from every angle
Since its introduction, or rebirth, in 2002, the Mini Cooper has and still gets the stares. What a beauty, especially in certain colours highlighted by racing stripes. With its chrome-trimmed headlights and grille, its wheels stretched out to the very corners of the car, and diminutive proportions, the MINI is unmistakable.

Some told me they prefer the coupe's looks over the convertible; personally, I find both attractive in their own way. Some convertibles have tops that look like the car has a toupee, but not the MINI. And that top is about as easy to drop as it gets; hold a button located near the rearview mirror, and the top folds back like an accordion to mimic a sunroof. Press and hold that button again, and the roof folds down in about 15 seconds. That's it, no latches to unfasten, nothing. In addition, the roof didn't leak at all at the carwash or in a couple of rainstorms that I faced.

2006 MINI Cooper S Convertible (Photo: Michel Deslauriers, Auto123.com)

Inside, you're welcomed by a speedometer the size of a pizza. As for the tachometer, it's bolted on the steering column, and you'll probably never see the numbers 3 through 5, hidden by the wheel rim. The heating and ventilation controls are simple to use, and all switches are located on the centre stack or between the front seats. The $1,850 Premium package adds chrome trim, heated seats, rain-sensing wipers and a 6-speaker stereo with MP3 capability, which sounds great.

The front seats can be adjusted in various ways, so comfort is easy to achieve. You'll get the habit of backing up the seat before stepping out of

2006 MINI Cooper S Convertible (Photo: Michel Deslauriers, Auto123.com)

the car, to make it easier when you get back in. The back seat is fine for kiddies, as they will probably be as thrilled as mine to ride in the Cooper. In addition, if the front occupants are willing to move their seats forward, four adults fit. Rear-seat occupants will be snug, but comfy. As for the trunk, it qualifies better as a giant glove box, but at least its limited space doesn't change when the top is lowered, like in some other convertibles.