We get behind the wheel of the new MINI Roadster in Cooper S guise - can it rival the big-selling Mazda MX-5?
Full review: http://www.autoexpress.co.uk/carreviews/firstdrives/277903/mini_roadster.html
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The MINI Roadster is much more than a soft-top version of the Coupe. It's the first open-topped MINI two-seater ever and the first genuine affordable roadster rival to the MX-5. Prices start from £25 more than the cheapest Mazda, at £18,015.
To succeed in the roadster market, and make the sums add up, you need big sales. Mazda has managed this, but nobody else has yet. MINI may have found a way in through the back door, with the hatchback, Convertible, Coupe and now the Roadster all essentially re-clothed versions of the same car.