The Mini Convertible (R57) One 1.6, producing 98 horsepower, was a short-lived variant of the second-generation Mini Convertible, offered primarily in Europe during the 2010 model year (March – August). Positioned as the entry-level model in the R57 range, it aimed to provide the open-top Mini experience at a more accessible price point. It sat below the Cooper and Cooper S models, offering a more fuel-efficient and affordable alternative. The R57 generation itself represented Mini’s second foray into a production convertible, building upon the success of the original Mini Convertible (R52) and utilizing the 1HX0/A3 platform shared with the Mini Hatchback.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mini |
| Model | Convertible |
| Generation | Convertible (R57) |
| Type (Engine) | One 1.6 (98 Hp) |
| Start of production | March, 2010 |
| End of production | August, 2010 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Cabriolet |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7.3 l/100 km (32.2 US mpg, 38.7 UK mpg, 13.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.3 l/100 km (54.7 US mpg, 65.7 UK mpg, 23.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.7 l/100 km (41.3 US mpg, 49.6 UK mpg, 17.5 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 133 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 181 km/h (112.47 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.8 kg/Hp, 84.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.6 kg/Nm, 131.9 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 98 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 61.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 153 Nm @ 3000 rpm (112.85 lb.-ft. @ 3000 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 | Diesel Commonrail |
| 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 | 1160 kg (2557.36 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1590 kg (3505.35 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 | 3699 mm (145.63 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 | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Semi-independent, coil spring |
| 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 Mini Convertible One 1.6 was the N16B16A engine, a 1.6-liter naturally aspirated inline-four cylinder petrol engine. This engine was part of the BMW N16 family, known for its relatively simple design and focus on fuel efficiency. It featured a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. Fuel delivery was handled by port fuel injection, a common system for engines of this era. The engine produced 98 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 153 Nm (113 lb-ft) of torque at 3000 rpm. The engine was transversely mounted at the front of the vehicle. The transmission was a 6-speed manual gearbox, chosen to maximize fuel economy and provide a reasonably engaging driving experience. While an automatic transmission was available on other R57 models, it was not offered with the One 1.6 variant.
Driving Characteristics
The 98 hp output and manual transmission combination resulted in a driving experience focused on practicality and affordability rather than outright performance. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph took approximately 10.7 seconds, and the top speed was around 112 mph. The gear ratios were tuned for fuel efficiency, meaning the engine needed to be revved to extract the most performance. Compared to the Cooper and Cooper S models, the One 1.6 felt noticeably slower, particularly during overtaking maneuvers. However, the lighter weight of the One 1.6, compared to its more powerful siblings, did contribute to a more nimble feel in city driving. The manual gearbox provided a direct connection to the engine, allowing drivers to maintain control and optimize fuel consumption.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Mini Convertible One 1.6 was generally equipped with a basic level of standard features. This included power windows, central locking, and an audio system. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, and the dashboard featured a simple, functional design. Optional extras included air conditioning, alloy wheels, and a more advanced audio system. The One trim level was designed to be a blank canvas for buyers who wanted to personalize their Mini with a range of accessories and options. It was common for owners to add features like leather seats, a sunroof, and upgraded infotainment systems.
Chassis & Braking
The R57 Convertible utilized a McPherson strut front suspension and a semi-independent coil spring rear suspension. This setup provided a reasonable balance between ride comfort and handling. The front brakes were ventilated discs, while the rear brakes were solid discs. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard. The chassis was reinforced to compensate for the lack of a fixed roof, adding weight but maintaining structural rigidity. The suspension tuning was geared towards comfort, making it suitable for everyday driving. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Mini Convertible One 1.6 received mixed reviews. Critics praised its fuel efficiency and affordability, but many found the performance lacking. Compared to the Cooper and Cooper S models, the One 1.6 offered a significantly less engaging driving experience. However, it was seen as a viable option for buyers who prioritized fuel economy and a lower price point. Fuel economy figures were respectable, averaging around 41.3 US mpg on the combined cycle. Reliability was generally good, with the N16B16A engine proving to be a durable unit. However, like all Mini Convertibles, the R57 was prone to occasional electrical issues and water leaks.
Legacy
The Mini Convertible One 1.6 was a relatively short-lived variant, and it didn’t achieve the same level of popularity as its more powerful siblings. However, it remains a relatively affordable entry point into the world of Mini Convertibles. On the used car market, these models are often sought after by buyers looking for a stylish and fuel-efficient open-top car. The N16B16A engine is known for its reliability, making it a relatively low-maintenance option. While not a performance car, the One 1.6 offers a unique blend of style, practicality, and affordability that continues to appeal to a niche group of buyers.
