My elderly MiL had a similar issue with our SUV and had no issue with the Mini R56. I do enjoy pushing the good ladies Mini about, its a fun car even at lower speeds and does not cost a fortune. I am just amazed there are not scratches on the door handles as I enjoy roundabouts etc. The aftermarket upgrades scene is good if a bit variable. You can make cheap upgrades part of basic changes (brakes, suspension etc) to tweak it if you want to. I have not tried a drop top Mini to see if the driving experience is different to the hardtop but its a fun car.
I get the idea of the Jazz but you are doubling up on all the other costs, MOT, Insurance, Service etc which could be better used?
If you try and compare the RWD MX5 directly with the Mini it is not really going to be successful would be my thought? Both fun but not the same.
