Two years into its production run, the 2004 MINI Cooper was essentially unchanged from the vehicle that first hit showrooms in 2002. Minor upgrades included a new digital speed readout as well as an optional three-spoke leather-wrapped steering wheel.

But the essentials of the MINI Cooper remained the same. The BMW-engineered, front-wheel-drive, two-door hatchback was one of the shortest vehicles on the road, though it packed a lot of engineering and style into its small frame.

The MINI Cooper was available in both Standard and S (Supercharged) trim packages for 2004. Power for both models was provided by a 1.6-liter inline four-cylinder engine. For the Standard model, horsepower was rated at 115, while the supercharged engine in the S version pumped that up to 163 horsepower. The Standard version received a five-speed manual transmission, while the S version upped that a notch with a six-speed manual. A continuously variable automatic transmission (also known as a CVT) was optional in the Standard model.

The MINI Cooper was well-equipped with such standard features as air conditioning, power windows, power door locks, dual front and side airbags, an AM/FM stereo system with a CD player, remote keyless entry, and anti-lock brakes. The S version received larger 16-inch tires (as opposed to 15-inch tires in the Standard model), as well as a hood scoop, traction control, and a sport suspension. A sunroof, leather seats, and a navigation system were among the options.

The MINI Cooper's BMW heritage appealed to many drivers, who felt they were getting a BMW-quality car at a cost that was considerably lower than that of a typical BMW model. Drivers were impressed with the MINI's power, and the fact that it was easy to park just about anywhere. Some drivers were put off by the MINI's small size, but most drivers found the vehicle to be fun to drive, nimble, reliable, economical, and comfortable, as well as a head-turner on the road.