The astras steering wheel feels like it not actually connected to the front wheels, and therefore feels more like an arcade steering wheel.
Press the clutch in the astra and it feels like isn't actually doing anything, while in the mini there is an obvious bite point, so again feels a whole lot more connected and enjoyable.
In terms of quickness - not much point having a car which could easily land you in prison or on the slab - no fun there! Reckon 120 is more than adequate for a smallish hatch.
With the mini it feels a lot more connected and therefore (in my view anyway) more predictable and enjoyable when zipping around b-roads.
120mph is an auto driving ban. you need a car with a maximum speed of about 80mph to be safe under your rules lol. fun power is about acceleration not top speed. its good to be picky about how the steering feels, seems like a lot of cars dont get it right. i'm happy with my lupo, any power steering effect takes a lot away though. good gearboxes are important aswell, if you can change in a blink of an eye then its not good enough, and the revs have to give an instant responce also, i have found the fords i have driven are terrible in this area.
....... There's got to be a hundred reasons why i should listen to diesel owners, but right now, i can't think of any.
Originally posted by gj1982: Compared a mini cooper(new) to an astra. Astra felt very artificial and wobbly in terms of steering and clutch feel, the Mini - direct and connected.
Canvassing opinions of which is more representative of currently available small-mid size hatches.
Any ideas gents?
The MINI better had be a better handler as it is significantly overpriced for what it offers, so you need to get something for the money that BMW are expecting you to shell out.
If handling is important & you don't want to be ripped off, then Ford is the way to go.
Even now, the Fiesta (which is about to be replaced by a stunning version) is one of the best drivers cars out there.
The Focus is probably the greatest affordable drivers car out there & the Mondeo can easily match or surpass some rather overpriced saloons & estates in it's class with German badges.
