i agree with most of the opinions here, even if they're conflicting!
but here's my take on it:
-you dont 'need' a sensible car, you're not hauling around rugrats or pianos
-the mini doesn't cost *that* much more the way you want it
-you really wanna drive something that's fun!!! who wants a Saturn or a civic or an Accord when they have the chance to drive something cooler??
at first i didn't care for the new mini's at all, but i'm starting to change my mind!
life's too short to putt around in a "sensible" car. if you get the mini, be sure to get the hot-rodded version!!!
whatever it is, it's the performance model, i haven't looked it up but i know that's an option. go for a test drive with both of you in it (weight's a factor in handling) and taking turns and see if you like how it handles. i heard they're a real blast to drive.