2002 MINI Cooper Reviews, Pricing & Specs
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The 2002 MINI Cooper was the right car for the right time. Appearing shortly before the current gas crisis made small cars cool again, the new MINI was surrounded by the same mystique that made Volkswagen's New Beetle so popular. The MINI was a small, peppy, good-looking car in an era of ever-larger SUVs, with a distinctive personality that appealed to drivers on the lookout for something completely different.
A rebirth of a small, fuel-efficient, innovative car that first appeared in the late 1950s in Great Britain, the 2002 MINI retained the same basic looks of its iconic ancestor, with a boxy cabin and the wheels pushed all the way out to the sides to create more interior room, although the new MINI was larger and more powerful than its predecessor. Design elements, such as the taillights, fender, and roofline, all mimic similar elements in the 1960s-era Minis, while interior components such as the center console, instrument panel, switches, and air vents all draw inspiration from the classic Minis.
The 2002 MINI Cooper was a front-wheel-drive, two-door hatchback available in both Base and S trim packages. Power for both was provided by a 1.6-liter inline four-cylinder engine. Horsepower for the Base model was rated at 115, while the supercharged engine in the S version pumped that up to 163 horsepower. The Base version received a five-speed manual transmission, while the S version upped that a notch with a six-speed manual. A continuously variable automatic transmission (also known as a CVT) was optional in the Base model.
The MINI Cooper was well-equipped with such standard features as air conditioning, power windows, power door locks, dual front and side airbags, a CD player, remote keyless entry, and anti-lock brakes. The S version received larger 16-inch tires (as opposed to 15-inch tires in the Base model), as well as a hood scoop and a sport suspension. A sunroof, leather seats, navigation system, and traction control were among the options.
The MINI Cooper's BMW heritage appealed to many drivers, who felt they were getting a BMW-quality car at a cost that was considerably lower than that of a standard BMW model. Some drivers were put off by the MINI's small size, but most drivers found the vehicle to be fun to drive, nimble, reliable, economical, and comfortable, as well as a head-turner on the road.
Published Aug 8, 2022 by CarGurus Editorial Team
User reviews for 2002 MINI Cooper
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by Michael D
Feb 08, 2022
It’s a fun little car, serves the purpose of mean of transportation. For the money I’m very satisfied. Feb 08, 2022
by Jerry Z
Aug 17, 2020
It was the first year Minnie was reintroduced back into the US by BMW it was supercharged nothing compares it to the new one the years to avoid 2008/2009 mini Cooper sAug 17, 2020
by Anonymous
Mar 07, 2014
I like the overall sports car feel, even the owner's manual says the driver's seat is, "the cockpit." -VERY true I have to say, its bucket seats and easily accessible controls and easy to see monitors make this car feel like it's folding around you. When that supercharger kicks in you sit deeply in the seats. My only complaint thus far is the issue (seems to be common with 2005 models and earlier) with the BCM and water getting into the module. This can lead to costly repairs if not complete module failures. I've experienced a couple issues with water leakage, but honestly those issue(s) paled in comparison to all the things that I truly enjoy about it.Mar 07, 2014
User rating:
by Michael D
Feb 08, 2022
It’s a fun little car, serves the purpose of mean of transportation. For the money I’m very satisfied. Feb 08, 2022
by Jerry Z
Aug 17, 2020
It was the first year Minnie was reintroduced back into the US by BMW it was supercharged nothing compares it to the new one the years to avoid 2008/2009 mini Cooper sAug 17, 2020
by Anonymous
Mar 07, 2014
I like the overall sports car feel, even the owner's manual says the driver's seat is, "the cockpit." -VERY true I have to say, its bucket seats and easily accessible controls and easy to see monitors make this car feel like it's folding around you. When that supercharger kicks in you sit deeply in the seats. My only complaint thus far is the issue (seems to be common with 2005 models and earlier) with the BCM and water getting into the module. This can lead to costly repairs if not complete module failures. I've experienced a couple issues with water leakage, but honestly those issue(s) paled in comparison to all the things that I truly enjoy about it.Mar 07, 2014
by Xime Z
Apr 13, 2013
You can do no wrong in this car. Best handling, most fun car on the road. Car is balanced with extreme handling, braking and power. And this one in particular is a very reliable car, you will have a blast driving it as much as I do!Apr 13, 2013
by Eric C
Nov 13, 2012
Although car is small, the interior seems surprisingly spacious given the ample head room and upright windshield.
Preventive maintenance, e.g. all fluid change, replace worn bushings, is a must!
With a few modifications, the Cooper S can be transformed to a fun, fast and comfortable daily driver. I recommend installing the 15% reduced pulley ($100), replacing the factory run-flats with regular tires ($500), and installing beefier rear anti sway bar like 19mm from Alta ($150).Nov 13, 2012
by Haley B
Jun 08, 2012
The MINI Cooper is a great car for the money. It is reliable and fun to drive. Heads turn when you drive because it sparkles. The engine is made by BMW, so it's quality. The seats are comfortable and most of the MINIs are leather and heated seats.Jun 08, 2012
by Erin N
Feb 03, 2012
Great acceleration for the small 1.6L four banger. I do have a smaller pulley for the supercharger on right now, so that definately helps. The breaks aren't as responsive as I'd like but definately work when you need them to. Handing is out of this world, and I can't wait to auto cross it this summer. The only thing that I don't reccomend is driving this little go kart with bald tires in the rain. It is a very light wieght car with a curb weight of approx 2400lbs so you must be careful, but she does great in the snow! The color and design of my specific Cooper is very simple, but attractive. Miliage is good even with the smaller pulley about 28 MPG. N/A engines run you about 40 MPG. This car is a must if you love driving like your the cast of Italian Job! Good car for experienced drivers. Feb 03, 2012
by Derry H
Jan 15, 2012
gr8 performance just not goin up hills
BMW 1.6i engine
looked cool
good petrol mileage easy to keep
AWESOME FUN FACTOR ITALIAN JOB EAT YA HEART OUT
had alot of room considering its a small car,
my best car yet Jan 15, 2012
by Jake C
Nov 19, 2011
BEST CAR EVER! Its a mini cooper. Nippy and reliable. Solid car, good mileage.
Leather seats, full electrics, panoramic sun roof. No squeaks, tiny rattle. And SO
MUCH FUN to drive!! Just take it out for a spin occasionally for a drive.Nov 19, 2011
by Tom V
Feb 13, 2011
This car was one of my favourites. Enormous power/weight ratio, 1.6 litre
engine with compressor and the sound is marvelous! Also equipped with
custom NOS injected system brought this baby up to 255 Bhp. Small
disadvantage: I needed 4 new tires every 14.000 km. Feb 13, 2011
by Kevin K
Jan 14, 2011
It's a gocart with A/C. The sound from the blower is addicting. Cost of ownership has been ok so far, the only problem has been a broken power window regulator. I have been averaging about 27 mpg with a very heavy right foot.Jan 14, 2011
by Philip H
Jan 09, 2011
Quick but could be quicker, brakes are adequate but could be sharper
Build quality A1
I love the exterior and interior styling which is retro but modern in a way that really works unlike the newer Mini
Had TLC so service costs were nil,struggled to average 30 mpg
Fun factor 9/10Jan 09, 2011
by Glen D
Oct 30, 2010
the mini is a good fun car which is enjoyable to drive, looks good, handles well and puts a smile on your face allthough it can be a bit expensive to run but overall its a good all round package Oct 30, 2010
by Rhys T
Jul 24, 2010
i like thios car because i can drive it and it helps me so im ready for a driving test and it is a bit fast. i can get a bit out of control but it is fun to drive.Jul 24, 2010
by Miguel R
Mar 09, 2010
Its a beauty of a car and it turns like hell, its fast for such a small car its a joy to drive and who doesnt like it??? :P i would recommend for all people! Just love it! try it!Mar 09, 2010
by Eduardo M
Jan 26, 2010
Performance: not exactly a fast car, however it makes up
for its lack of speed through
amazing handling.
Build Quality: since the new MINI brand is owned by
BMW, most of the parts apart from the engine are from
BMW so in that aspect it's very good. the only problem
I've ever had with this car is that at one point the power
lock on the driver's side stopped working, this has been
repaired however.
Appearance: this MINI is in near mint condition both
inside and out. the only signs of wear are a few
scratches on the front of the car and a chip in the chrome
where rocks have hit it. it is in a very exclusive color
called velvet red which is very much like maroon.
Cost of Ownership: this MINI is very nearly fully loaded.
it even has the sport suspension. the only features it
lacks are the navigation system and the sunroof. overall
price was about $24,000. gas mileage is terrific, you get
mid to high 20s in the city and low to mid 30s on the
highway.
Fun Factor: if you find a twisty road, there are very few
cars which will offer the fun factor of a MINI. while the
ride can be harsh in the city and on the highway, the stiff
sport suspension makes sense when you feel how this
thing corners. it's easily one of the most fun cars you can
buy for the money.Jan 26, 2010
by Paul N
Oct 21, 2009
I love my car. I've had it for almost 8 years and I still enjoy it as much as the day I bought it! I like the older New MINI than the newer New MINI. I would by another one.Oct 21, 2009
by Kaitlyn F
Oct 17, 2009
accelaration is great! braking is good. handling is excellent-although i do slide sometimes going round the roundabouts :P no repairs,sunroof rattles a bit...exterior i love it. and interior had to grow on me, i love the tacho bein so massive, does about 8 letres per 100 km, maintenance- not yet. the car is great fun to drive!Oct 17, 2009
by Holly W
Aug 26, 2009
i love it so much :D great fun to drive
could be quicker but i havnt done anything to it so that can be expected
decent with petrol
only had a couple of problems with it n they were very minor
cant complain at all but i will probs end up doin somethin to make it a bit nippierAug 26, 2009
by Jeremy P
Aug 15, 2009
Quick 0 to 100 in 6.0sec, what brakes, go kart handling with no suspension, tuff as a brick, all ways needs new parts, it shakes you to peices on the freeway, matt grey paint job, cost me about $4000 in about 8 years of spending, fuel mileage- its a mini. Best fun you can ever EVER have with a car.Aug 15, 2009
by Richie H
Jun 26, 2009
Small cc car with amazing power,fun car to drive but not everyday,reason is cooperS is a drinker. Price is reasonable to own one. acceleration 0-100 in 6.8s. The more you look at the car the more you will love it.Jun 26, 2009
by Melesh K
Jun 24, 2009
Only problem with this car is that it is FWD.
Nippy go-kart handling,
go-build quality, can be economical if driven with a light foot, but if the power is needed it is there. Managed to get 38-40 MPG on a 50 mile run, that consisted mainly of motorway driving.
Solid BMW build quality, Jun 24, 2009
by Nicolas M
Jan 28, 2009
This car Rulessss!!! It was my first car but sady I drove it too aggressively and ended up totaling it. Only problem with this car is that all of the spare parts for it are expensive and its kinda hard to work on Jan 28, 2009
by Roger F
Sep 03, 2008
I love my Cooper S. Grew up in Oxford (where they're made), had 2 of the original mini's (1100 and a 1275 GT). Why wouldn't I have one?!?!?!? Taken it down to the Dragons Tail a couple of times now. Fun, fun, fun. Definitely the best car I've ever owned.Sep 03, 2008
by Andy S
Aug 08, 2008
I loved this car so much, but the built quality was quite poor. I mean what car, after 40,000 mile needs a new gear box and steering rack? Plus BMW's customer service was not a lot of cop either!!!!!! But she great for slinging into corners and she held the road very well and gave good MPGAug 08, 2008
by Sean Y
Aug 07, 2008
It is the equivalent to an adult gokart, slotcar and motorized roller skate. Every time I drive it, it just makes me happy. Saying that about a 115 HP car after owning a Lightning, Several Mustangs and various other 300+ HP vehicles should tell you something about the MINI. It's just an amazing little car. Aug 07, 2008
by Drew B
Jul 11, 2008
I love everything about my car!!!!!!!!!
It handles like a dream and is decent on speed.
Also great gas mileage.
This insurance is super cheap since it has a 5 star crash test rating. Its just an all around awesome car for looks and performance the best in my opinion.Jul 11, 2008
by Melissa T
Jul 01, 2008
MINI rocks, but gotta have cash to maintain it .So if you are wealthy and can afford a MINI. BUY at least 3 of them! So fun to drive . I have taken mine 16 hours into Mexico 3 times. I have been to Cali and Vegas countless times and love my car. except maintenance has been uber expensive and right now it is in the shop which has cost me 3 grand already and still counting. I would rather eat ramen noodles than give it up though.Jul 01, 2008
by Stephen J
Jul 01, 2008
Responsive handling and turning, fantastic mileage in today's gas prices, and is large on room inside despite the appearance from the outside. Truly a commuter car that makes it fun to commute.Jul 01, 2008
by Philip H
May 16, 2008
great handling, the enginge is a bit weak under 2000 rpm but in higher rpm its great funMay 16, 2008
by Jay C
Apr 22, 2008
comfortable, nippy needs a little more poke but its a good little car, and the other half loves itApr 22, 2008
by David B
Apr 10, 2008
great car for running around places...also great on the highway...very solid and stable...turns on a dime...plenty of power to stay out of trouble...can park where others can't which is great for going to special events and such...not a car to have if you do not want people asking you how much you like it...not for everyone but the car I have wanted for 40 yrs...super stereo...perfect little bubble for traffic jams...Apr 10, 2008
by Philip C
Mar 22, 2008
Superb handling but the ride is a bit hard!Mar 22, 2008
by Anonymous
Mar 14, 2008
Totally awesome handling, nippy when you need it and an eyecatcher!!Mar 14, 2008
by Paulo M
Mar 03, 2008
There is nothing I can say bad about it....or maybe if you have to travel for LONG periods of time, say like 7 hours straight. The short wheel base and the thin tires make it a bit chalenging on long routes. But then again, it's not made for that. PURE FUN AND JOY!Mar 03, 2008
by Ryan P
Jan 17, 2008
i know this isnt a 2002 i owned it , but MYGARAGE wont allow me to use the correct year.
rover mini 1998.
amazing car to drive lived up to all my expectations and made living in london that much more authentic....pip pipJan 17, 2008
by Kevin G
Jan 09, 2008
fantastic chassis and control ...hard to beat for out and out fun Jan 09, 2008
by Anonymous
Jan 04, 2008
It's a superb car , wich offers you plenty of joy!Jan 04, 2008
by James F
Jan 01, 2008
Loved this car, had few mods to squeeze 200bhp out it it. It looked good, handled well and was great fun.Jan 01, 2008
by Gabriel C
Dec 27, 2007
Bought in 2002. Nice handling car but very slow. Had the sport package, everything from the 'S' except the engine.... Dec 27, 2007
by Neil F
Dec 27, 2007
Great after the 1st year of warranty problems, BMW dealers suck and couldn't give a monkeys nut for your custom. Dec 27, 2007
by Robbie M
Dec 02, 2007
Yeah ok bit girly, not half as much fun as a proper mini but still a laugh to chuck about. About time they got a proper engine. Dec 02, 2007
What users have asked
Long cranking 4-5 seconds except when car parked for several days
My mini always needs a long crank 4-5 seconds except if the car has been parked for many days. I read somewhere that one or more injectors may be leaking fuel into the cylinder when stopped and flooding the cylinder. Perhaps if it sits long enough, then the gas evaporates enabling the car to start immediately?
79 views
MINI Cooper CVT heavy drive engagement
I have a MINI Cooper 2002 CVT and it has very heavy enegagement when I select Drive. It then feels like it is really pulling against the brakes and wants to go. Engagement into R is very smooth. I have replaced the CVT oil which helped slightly. Any thoughts please on how to fix the heavy engagement?
41 views
idle
when car is at idle, cel is on and car starts to sputter. I have changed spark plugs and the sputterring has ended unless car stays at idle too long. any thoughts?
823 views
Mini Cooper lights flashing while the car is off
A few months back I pulled the key out of my car but the dinging was telling me the lights were still on. I didn't think much about it but a little while later, I washed my car and water had gotten in through the hatch back and my lights are flashing like crazy. A couple weeks later My altinator burnt up and I replaced it, the second altinator burnt up. Please if anyone could give me some insight on what to do. Thank you
3798 views
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2002 MINI Cooper Pricing
Original MSRP
$16,850 to $19,850Price range
N/AAverage price on CG
N/AYoY price change
N/ATrims & specs
Air Conditioning
Automatic climate control front air conditioning
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Front side airbags · Front side curtain airbags
Audio System
Single disc in-Dash CD · Premium Brand: Harman-Kardon · AM/FM radio
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel
Comfort Features
Steering wheel trim: leather
Convenience Features
Multi-function remote: trunk release · Steering wheel: tilt-adjustable · Steering wheel mounted controls: audio
Exterior Features
Bumper color: chrome
Lights
Exterior entry lights: security approach lamps · Headlights: Xenon
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: power
Rear Seats
Type: split-bench
Roof
Sunroof: power panoramic
Safety
Parking sensors: rear
Seats
Front seat type: bucket · Heated: front seats · Upholstery: leather
Suspension
Front Spring Type: coil springs · Rear Spring Type: coil springs
Tires and Rims
Wheel type: aluminum alloy
Windows
Front wipers: intermittent
Air Conditioning
Automatic climate control front air conditioning
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Front side airbags · Rear side curtain airbags
Audio System
Single disc in-Dash CD · Premium Brand: Harman-Kardon · AM/FM radio
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel
Comfort Features
Steering wheel trim: leather
Convenience Features
Multi-function remote: keyless entry · Steering wheel: tilt-adjustable · Steering wheel mounted controls: audio
Lights
Exterior entry lights: security approach lamps · Headlights: Xenon
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: power · Inside rearview mirror: electrochromic
Rear Seats
Type: split-bench
Roof
Sunroof: power panoramic
Safety
Parking sensors: rear
Seats
Front seat type: bucket · Heated: front seats · Upholstery: cloth
Tires and Rims
Wheel type: aluminum alloy
Windows
Front wipers: rain sensing