I have a Gen1 Mini JCW and it's a lot of fun. It's not my DD (commute is much easier with an auto), but when I take it out it does put a smile on my face. Not the same smile as my carrera did, but a smile nonetheless. (But I am in the market for an '09+ Cayman S or R)

My big dislike about the mini is the FWD. Even with LSD it will torque steer, nothing can be done to eliminate it (make it rwd I guess) as it's just the nature of the beast.

Mini might be for sale if I can every find my cayman! Don't have enough room at home for 4 cars!