The Mini Roadster Cooper 1.6 Automatic, produced between 2012 and 2015, represented a unique offering within the R59 Mini Roadster generation. Positioned as a mid-range trim, it blended the open-air driving experience of a roadster with the convenience of an automatic transmission and a reasonably efficient 1.6-liter engine. Built upon the Mini’s characteristic front-wheel-drive platform, the Cooper Automatic aimed to broaden the Roadster’s appeal beyond the enthusiast market, offering a more accessible entry point into the two-seater convertible segment. It was part of the broader R59 series, which itself was based on the BMW Group’s 1HX0/A3 platform shared with the Mini Cooper and Clubman.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mini |
| Model | Roadster |
| Generation | Roadster (R59) |
| Type (Engine) | Cooper 1.6 (122 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2012 |
| End of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Roadster |
| Seats | 2 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.9 l/100 km (26.4 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.3 l/100 km (44.4 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.6 l/100 km (35.6 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 154 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10 sec |
| Maximum speed | 192 km/h (119.3 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 capacity | 7.5 l (7.93 US qt | 6.6 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1160 kg (2557.36 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1450 kg (3196.7 lbs.) |
| Max load | 290 kg (639.34 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 240 l (8.48 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 40 l (10.57 US gal | 8.8 UK gal) |
| Length | 3728 mm (146.77 in.) |
| Width | 1683 mm (66.26 in.) |
| Height | 1384 mm (54.49 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) | 134 mm (5.28 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.7 m (35.1 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, 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 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Cooper 1.6 Automatic is the N16B16A engine, a 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder naturally aspirated gasoline engine. This engine is part of the BMW Group’s N16 family, known for its relatively lightweight construction and focus on efficiency. It utilizes multi-port fuel injection and a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. The engine produces 122 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 160 Nm (118 lb-ft) of torque at 4250 rpm. The automatic transmission paired with this engine is a six-speed unit, designed to provide smooth shifts and enhance the car’s usability in everyday driving conditions. While not a dual-clutch or particularly sporty transmission, it was well-suited to the Cooper’s intended role as a stylish and comfortable roadster.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6-liter engine and six-speed automatic combination delivers a respectable, though not exhilarating, driving experience. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph takes around 10 seconds, and the top speed is 119.3 mph. The automatic transmission, while smooth, does slightly diminish the sense of direct control compared to the available six-speed manual. Gear ratios are tuned for fuel efficiency and comfortable cruising rather than outright performance. The power delivery is linear, making it predictable and easy to manage, especially in urban environments. Compared to the more powerful Cooper S models, the 1.6 Automatic feels noticeably less responsive, but it offers a more relaxed and fuel-efficient driving experience.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Cooper 1.6 Automatic came standard with features like air conditioning, power windows, central locking, and a basic audio system. Interior upholstery typically consisted of cloth seats, although leather options were available. The dashboard layout followed the circular theme characteristic of the Mini brand, with a central speedometer and various auxiliary gauges. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, upgraded audio systems (often from Harman Kardon), sport seats, and various customization options for interior trim and exterior colors. The Roadster, in general, featured a unique rollover protection system that automatically deployed in the event of a rollover, adding a layer of safety to the open-top driving experience.
Chassis & Braking
The Mini Roadster’s chassis is based on the BMW Group’s front-wheel-drive platform, featuring independent suspension all around. The front utilizes a McPherson strut setup with coil springs and an anti-roll bar, while the rear employs a multi-link suspension. This configuration provides a good balance between ride comfort and handling agility. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, equipped with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System). The suspension tuning was generally softer than that of the Cooper S models, prioritizing comfort over ultimate handling performance. The curb weight of 1160 kg (2557 lbs) contributes to the car’s nimble feel, but also limits its outright performance potential.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Mini Roadster Cooper 1.6 Automatic was generally well-received by critics as a stylish and fun-to-drive roadster. However, some reviewers noted that the 1.6-liter engine felt underpowered, especially when paired with the automatic transmission. Fuel economy was considered a strong point, with combined figures around 35.6 US mpg. Compared to the Cooper S models, the 1.6 Automatic offered a more affordable entry point into the Roadster range, but at the expense of performance. It also faced competition from other small roadsters, such as the Mazda MX-5, which offered a more focused driving experience.
Legacy
The N16B16A engine, while generally reliable, is known to be susceptible to oil leaks and timing chain wear if not properly maintained. The six-speed automatic transmission is also relatively robust, but regular fluid changes are crucial for longevity. Today, the Mini Roadster Cooper 1.6 Automatic represents an affordable and stylish entry into the used roadster market. Its relatively simple mechanicals and readily available parts make it a relatively easy car to maintain. While it may not offer the same level of performance as its Cooper S siblings, it provides a unique blend of open-air driving enjoyment, Mini charm, and everyday usability.
