I think we're getting pretty far afield. My neighbors had an Alfa-Romeo Spider, and as much as they loved it even they told me it's a big commitment in time and money. The Fiat/Pininfarina and Lotus are even more so.
These cars represent as much for those who find fun in caring for them as in driving them. For someone who is concerned about the reliability of the Mini, I wonder if these are too hands-on of an ownership experience. Otherwise, I'd throw in the RX-7 convertible as well for rarity and something different, but a lot fewer headaches.
