The Mini Convertible (R57) facelift, produced from 2012 to 2015, represented a mid-cycle refresh of the second-generation convertible model. The Cooper 1.6, powered by the N16B16A engine producing 122 horsepower, occupied a key position in the lineup as the entry-level offering, balancing affordability with the open-air Mini experience. This variant aimed to attract buyers seeking a stylish and fun-to-drive convertible without the higher price tag of the more powerful Cooper S or John Cooper Works models. It built upon the success of the R57 platform, which itself was a significant step forward for Mini, offering a more practical and refined convertible compared to the original Classic Mini.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mini |
| Model | Convertible |
| Generation | Convertible (R57, Facelift 2011) |
| Type (Engine) | Cooper 1.6 (122 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2012 |
| End of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Cabriolet |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7.2 l/100 km (32.7 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.9 l/100 km (48 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.7 l/100 km (41.3 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 133 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 198 km/h (123.03 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.5 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.3 kg/Nm |
| Power | 122 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Torque | 160 Nm @ 4250 rpm (118.01 lb.-ft. @ 4250 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | N16B16A |
| Engine displacement | 1598 cm3 (97.52 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 77 mm (3.03 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 85.8 mm (3.38 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 11:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.2 l (4.44 US qt | 3.7 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 5.2 l (5.49 US qt | 4.58 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1165 kg (2568.39 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1595 kg (3516.37 lbs.) |
| Max load | 430 kg (947.99 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 125 l (4.41 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 660 l (23.31 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 40 l (10.57 US gal | 8.8 UK gal) |
| Length | 3723 mm (146.57 in.) |
| Width | 1683 mm (66.26 in.) |
| Height | 1414 mm (55.67 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2467 mm (97.13 in.) |
| Front track | 1459 mm (57.44 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1467 mm (57.76 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 139 mm (5.47 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.7 m (35.1 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 175/65 R15 84H |
| Wheel rims size | 5.5J x 15 LM |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Cooper 1.6 Convertible was the N16B16A engine, a 1.6-liter naturally aspirated inline-four cylinder. This engine was part of the Volkswagen Group’s EA111 family, though heavily modified by Mini. It featured a multi-point fuel injection system and a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. The engine’s 122 horsepower output was achieved through careful tuning of the engine management system and optimized intake and exhaust designs. The six-speed manual transmission was standard, offering a relatively direct and engaging driving experience. The transmission’s gear ratios were tuned for a balance of fuel efficiency and responsiveness, prioritizing everyday usability over outright performance.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6-liter engine, paired with the manual transmission, provided adequate, though not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took around 9.3 seconds, making it competitive with other small convertibles in its class. The engine felt lively enough for city driving and highway cruising, but lacked the punch of the Cooper S models. The manual gearbox was light and precise, encouraging driver involvement. Handling was typical Mini – nimble and responsive, with a well-tuned suspension that minimized body roll. The convertible top, while adding some weight, didn’t significantly detract from the car’s overall agility. Compared to the Cooper S, the 1.6 offered a more relaxed and fuel-efficient driving experience, making it ideal for daily commutes and leisurely weekend drives.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Cooper 1.6 Convertible came standard with a respectable level of equipment. Interior features included cloth upholstery, air conditioning, a basic audio system, and power windows. Optional extras included leather upholstery, a premium sound system, navigation, and automatic climate control. The dashboard layout was characteristic of the R57 Mini, with a large central speedometer and a smaller tachometer. The exterior styling featured chrome accents and alloy wheels. The “Convertible Chili Package” was a popular option, adding sport seats, a sport steering wheel, and other aesthetic enhancements.
Chassis & Braking
The R57 Mini Convertible utilized a McPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, providing a comfortable yet sporty ride. The front brakes were ventilated discs, while the rear brakes were solid discs. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard. The chassis was reinforced to compensate for the lack of a fixed roof, ensuring adequate torsional rigidity. The steering was a rack-and-pinion system, offering precise and responsive control. The relatively lightweight construction of the car contributed to its agile handling characteristics.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Cooper 1.6 Convertible was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its stylish design, fun-to-drive character, and relatively affordable price. However, some reviewers noted that the 1.6-liter engine lacked the power of its turbocharged counterpart in the Cooper S. Fuel economy was considered good for a convertible, averaging around 41.3 US mpg in combined driving. Compared to the Cooper S, the 1.6 offered a lower purchase price and lower running costs, making it a more practical choice for budget-conscious buyers. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported minor issues with the convertible top mechanism.
Legacy
The Mini Convertible (R57) Cooper 1.6 remains a popular choice in the used car market. The N16B16A engine is known for its reliability, provided it has been properly maintained. Common maintenance items include regular oil changes and timing chain inspection. The car’s stylish design and fun-to-drive character continue to appeal to buyers seeking an affordable and enjoyable convertible. While not the fastest or most luxurious convertible available, the Cooper 1.6 offers a unique blend of style, practicality, and driving enjoyment that has cemented its place in Mini’s history.
