Mini Roadster R59
A sharp-handling, two-seat open-top Mini with a distinctive 'helmet' roof design.
- Power
- 184 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 6.7 s
- Top speed
- 141 mph
- Est. value
- $8k–$16k
About the Mini Roadster R59
The Mini Roadster (R59) was the brand's first two-seat open-top model, launched alongside its fixed-roof Coupé sibling to offer a more focused driving experience than the standard four-seat Convertible. Based on the R56 Hatch platform, it features a more steeply raked windscreen and a manually or semi-electrically operated soft top that folds flat behind the seats. The Cooper S variant uses the N18 twin-scroll turbocharged engine, providing punchy performance and an overboost function that increases torque to 260 Nm. Its low centre of gravity and stiffened chassis deliver the trademark 'go-kart' handling, though the firm ride and limited rear visibility are common trade-offs for its unique styling.
Mini Roadster R59 specs
The Mini Roadster R59 produces 184 bhp (137 kW) and 240 Nm (177 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 6.7 seconds and has a top speed of 141 mph (227 km/h).
| Make | Mini |
|---|---|
| Model | Roadster |
| Generation | R59 |
| Trim | Cooper S |
| Years | 2012–2015 |
| Type | Sports car |
| Body style | Roadster |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Production | About 24,609 built |
| Original price | About $29,000 when new |
| Engine | 1.6-litre turbocharged inline-4 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,598 cc (1.6 litres) |
| Induction | Turbocharged |
| Power | 184 bhp (137 kW) at 5,500 rpm |
| Torque | 240 Nm (177 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 6,500 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 6.7 s |
| Top speed | 141 mph (227 km/h) |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,185 kg (2,612 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 155 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Mini Roadster R59 worth?
A typical Mini Roadster R59 is estimated to be worth $8,000 – $16,000 (about £6,000 – £12,000).
Its original price when new was about $29,000.
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Mini Roadster R59 rarity in CarSpot
The Mini Roadster R59 is an Uncommon card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 16 out of 100. Hot hatches and premium sporty cars. An Uncommon card is worth 20 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Mini Roadster R59 fun facts
- The Roadster features an active rear spoiler that automatically deploys at 50 mph (80 km/h) to increase downforce on the rear axle.
- Unlike the standard Mini Convertible, the Roadster's roof does not have a 'sunroof' mode; it is either fully open or fully closed.
- Total production for the R59 Roadster was significantly lower than the standard Hatch, with fewer than 25,000 units built globally over its four-year run.