New chassis and engines versus old?

[AstonZagato]

I have been told by my wife that we need a mini.

I am trying to work out if I should be looking at the newer chassis or the older one.

In the newer, it would be between the 1.2l and 1.5l 3 cylinder engines, I think. I need to be able to insure 22yo daughter and 20yo son on the thing.

So what are the thoughts of the mini aficionados? New or old chassis? Which engine?

Thanks

[rosejem]

I have had three R56 Minis, since 2007 , a Cooper S , Cooper Conv , now have Cooper Hatch .
Been very pleased with them. If you go for the old model I would suggest a Cooper over a One . 1.6 petrol a nice little engine.

[AstonZagato]

I tried the 1.2 and 1.5 today. Both good little cars (if pricey). I think the 1.5 is a better drive though. It's £200 a year more to insure. Decision time.