Mini Cooper John Cooper Works vs Subaru WRX STI Special Edition 01/28/2011
Many drivers in the market for a hatchback are doing so because they're typically affordable. Yet some of these vehicles can be tricked out so that they resemble miniature versions of high-end luxury vehicles.
The Subaru Impreza WRX STI Special Edition and Mini Cooper John Cooper Works are two examples of hatchbacks that certainly fit this trend. These two vehicles both cost more than $30,000, a sharp contrast from the sub-$20,000 price tags seen on many hatchbacks. But which is the better value?
To start, the two vehicles aren't exactly a fair fight. The Mini Cooper is quite a bit smaller than the Impreza, despite both technically being hatchbacks. That means that the Impreza can fit a much larger engine inside, capable of reaching 305 horsepower and 290 lb-ft of torque. The Mini Cooper, meanwhile, can only manager 208 horsepower and 192 lb-ft. It's worth noting that the Cooper doesn't need as much power since it's quite a bit smaller.
Still, the Subaru offers a better warranty, with an extra year and 10,000 miles. And the Mini Cooper is surprisingly lacking in interior features for the price, giving the edge to the WRX STI.