Used MINI Convertible for sale: everything you need to know

The MINI Convertible is something of a rarity, being a small open-top car with bags of character. Although it may be short on rivals, it is certainly big on enjoyment. Driving one will undoubtedly make you smile. Its nearest rival is the Fiat 500C, but that lacks a proper fully opening roof. 

The MINI is also smaller and cheaper than, for example, a Volkswagen T-Roc Cabriolet or Mercedes-Benz C-Class Cabriolet. But while the MINI Convertible is fun, it cannot match the laser-focused driving experience of a Porsche 718 Boxster, or indeed the ever-popular Mazda MX-5. 

Ultimately, the MINI Convertible is in a class of its own, and makes for a great option to buy used. Here’s all the information you need to know – then take a look at a MINI Convertible for sale on heycar to discover just what’s on offer.

Should you buy a MINI Convertible? 

The MINI Convertible is arguably the only car that exists in its category. But MINI hasn’t rested on its laurels, making this open-top machine worthy of praise in its own right. With a standard ‘Always Open Timer’ to record how many hours you have the roof lowered, the intention for fun is clear to see. 

Delivering big smiles is really what the MINI Convertible does best. It handles almost as well as the regular hatchback, with plenty of grip and sharp steering. Country roads can be a real pleasure, especially with the roof down. Only a firm ride, especially on models with sports suspension, can spoil the party a little. 

Although this MINI Convertible has grown in size, it is still a relatively small car. It may be a four-seat model on paper, but the rear seats are really only suitable for children. With the roof up, the back bench can feel a little claustrophobic, although dropping the top does immediately solve this. 

Instead, we’d make use of the back seats as extra luggage space to supplement the small boot. Holding 215 litres with the roof up, the boot is actually larger than that of the MINI Hatch. Retracting the roof sees this capacity shrink to 160 litres, but this is still better than a Mazda MX-5. 

Besides, all of these concerns will cease to be a worry on the open road. With funky retro looks, a well-made and stylish interior, plus the benefit of a folding soft-top roof, there is plenty to like about the MINI Convertible.

A MINI Convertible not for you? We've got 1000s of used cars for sale to suit all budgets and needs.

What's the best used MINI Convertible to buy?

Forget the model and engine for a moment, because in true MINI fashion, it’s all about the options and accessories. Make sure any used model has the kit and bits you want and need before committing to buying.

The core range is refreshingly simple: Cooper, Cooper S and John Cooper Works. After that, it comes down to the choice of trim: Classic, Sport and Exclusive.

The ‘basic’ Cooper Classic could be all the MINI Convertible you need. The 1.5-litre three-cylinder has a characterful note that seems in-tune with the fun-loving nature of the car.

For some racier fun, the 2.0-litre engine in the Cooper S delivers quite a punch, while the John Cooper Works is for fans of hardcore action. Our advice: keep it simple.

Used MINI Convertible fuel economy and performance

The MINI Convertible has a simple selection of three engines to choose from. Almost all are petrol-powered, and can be had with a six-speed manual gearbox or an automatic transmission.

• MINI Convertible Cooper 1.5: The entry-level Cooper version uses a turbocharged 1.5-litre three-cylinder engine. It produces 136hp and helps the MINI Convertible accelerate to 62mph in less than nine seconds. Fuel economy can average 46.3mpg, with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox an option. Proving that bigger is not always better, this is a sweet-spot in the range.
• MINI Convertible Cooper S 2.0: For more power, the Cooper S uses a larger 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine. With 178hp, it makes for a noticeable jump in performance, reducing the 0-62mph sprint to just over seven seconds. Despite this, fuel economy only drops to an average of 44.1mpg.
• MINI Convertible John Cooper Works 2.0: Designed for maximum performance, the John Cooper Works version of the MINI Convertible uses an upgraded 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo engine. An output of 231hp pushes it towards hot hatchback territory, with 0-62mph taking less than seven seconds. An eight-speed automatic transmission can be combined with this engine.
• MINI Convertible Cooper 1.5 D: MINI offered a 117PS 1.5-litre turbodiesel engine in the Convertible when it was launched, but dropped it 2017. If you want a diesel-powered version, it can return a claimed 70.6mpg along with 104g/km of CO2 emissions. From rest to 62mph takes 9.9 seconds and top speed is 121mph

The MINI Convertible has proven popular, so there are lots to choose from when buying usedl. Both Cooper and Cooper S versions are evenly represented on the used market, although the John Cooper Works is a much rarer find.

What used MINI Convertible trim levels are available?

The MINI Convertible is offered with a relatively simple model structure. There are three core trim levels, which can be combined with the Cooper or Cooper S engines. There is also the standalone John Cooper Works performance version.

• MINI Convertible Classic: The entry-level version of the MINI Convertible still comes with a respectable list of equipment. Features such as LED headlights, air conditioning and electric power for the folding soft-top roof are all included. MINI also fits an ‘Always Open Timer’ to record how frequently you drop the roof. 
• MINI Convertible Sport: For the looks of the John Cooper Works model but in a more affordable package, there's the Sport version of the MINI Convertible. It has a body kit that mimics its powerful sibling, along with upgraded 17-inch alloy wheels and sport seats.
• MINI Convertible Exclusive: Intended as the luxurious model in the MINI Convertible range, the Exclusive trim level adds plenty of chrome to both the interior and exterior. Leather upholstery is included, with cabin detailing taken from the MINI Yours range.
• MINI Convertible John Cooper Works: Offering maximum performance, the John Cooper Works version has plenty of bespoke equipment to support its abilities. This includes sports suspension, upgraded brakes, a sports exhaust and plenty of red exterior detailing. 

Used MINI Convertible dimensions and boot size

The MINI Convertible’s exterior dimensions are: 

• Length: 3,824mm
• Width: 1,501mm
• Height: 1,415mm
• Ground clearance: 115mm

The MINI Convertible’s boot space is:

• 160 litres
• 215 litres with roof up

Used MINI Convertible road tax

The earliest MINI Convertible models of this generation went on sale in 2016, so they will have their road tax calculated on the emissions of the engine. Depending on which engine suits your needs, you will pay between £20 and £200 at current rates at the time of writing. For all MINI Convertibles registered on or after 1 April 2017, they will pay a flat road tax fee of £180 per year.

How much is it to insure a MINI Convertible? 

Prices for insuring a MINI Convertible will be dictated by how much performance and luxury you want. Ratings start at insurance group 21 (out of 50) for the MINI Convertible Cooper in Classic trim, while Sport or Exclusive trim takes the same model to group 22. The early diesel model is even lower with a starting point of group 16. Cooper S versions are either group 30 or 31, with the John Cooper Works in insurance group 33. 

Read our full MINI Convertible review