The wheels are set as far out to the four corners as possible thus enhancing stability in turns and reducing hobby-horsing on bumpy straights. The wheelbase at 97.1 inches is longer than some small cars though the Mini's body is shorter at 142.8 inches (less than 12 feet).

The wide-across, short-in-depth hood is the product of unique design and manufacturing techniques. It might well hang on the wall of some corporate offices along with other shaped sculpture and not betray its origin. The round, large doe-eyed headlights (which go up with the hood) are partly responsible for the common reaction of "Oh-h-h, isn't it CUTE!" Actually, this response was by intent, not chance. Mini designers also threw in what they consider to be some voluptuous feminine curves and some masculine muscular bulges to cover all the visceral reactions. Thus the Mini is neither Guy Wheels nor a Chick Car. It is an engaging automotive device that has a wide appeal stretching across gender, age and economic status.

By the way, that toaster-body shape of the Mini is functional: it gives anyone riding in either back or front seats adult headroom, something that arch-shaped body designs (such as the Beetle) cannot do.