Very tempted to jump back into the water

[JohnBLZ]

Sold off Ruska when I had my kiddo 2.5 years ago...missed my R56 every day since then. Absolutely think the Paceman JCW is brilliant, but hate the price. Looking at a new/used S/JCW Clubbie as an alternative... just don't want a car payment.

Decisions decisions...

[Zack]

Go for it. You won't regret it.

[Laurie]

Come back in John. The water's fine!

I just jumped back in myself. I traded in the MINI in 2009 for a 2010 Mazda 3. While I liked the Mazda I missed the MINI almost everyday. I was finally able to build a Countryman with options I wanted and payments I could afford. I've been motoring again for almost 2 weeks.

[Minidave]

I think you'd find a Countryman like Laurie bought would suit your needs much better than a Clubby. Go try one,, and see what you think!

[JohnBLZ]

Yo!

Good to see some familiar faces (screennames )

We test drove a Countryman awhile ago (Thanks Liz), wasn't quite what we were looking for... I just really miss the feel of my S and the shit eating grin I got when driving from A to B...

[Laurie]

I just really miss the feel of my S and the shit eating grin I got when driving from A to B...

I do miss this part with my Justa Countryman. I like the sitting up a bit higher part though.

Good luck on you search!

[Minidave]

Well, the main reason I was pointing you towards a Countryman was the 4 doors, even with the third door it can be a challenge to get a child in a car seat in the back of a Clubby.....but I'll grant you the Clubman definitely drives more like a MINI than the Countryman - not a huge difference, but there is a difference.

As far as driving the Clubman, I think the slightly longer wheelbase gives a better, smoother ride, but it really doesn't affect the handling - I've had mine on track plenty enough to know!

You need to borrow a Clubby for a weekend and try it out in daily use, that will tell you if it will work.