I don't think you're going to find something 4WD/AWD that fits inside of 14ft.

On the other hand, I think you'll find that a Mini-Cooper with ABS and (when necessary chains) will be able to cope with most things. And it's quite safe despite it's size - it's really made by BMW. As a small station wagon, it's got more cargo room than most small cars.

IF you're going to go with an internal garage, and there are definately advantages, this would be my top choice.

If you want something that costs less, get an old Honda CRX and have it overhauled professionally. You'll still be into it for less than $6k - $8k total. Won't be as safe as the Mini-Cooper though.

On edit: I checked the Mini-Cooper site (http://www.miniusa.com) - you can get "dynamic stability control" (mainly a traction control system) and a limited slip differencial. Together and in a car that size, they'd be a decent compromise instead of AWD.

This message has been edited. Last edited by: Jimm,

http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/road_tests/?id=166

Maybe not avalible on your side of the pond, but sure would suit your needs perfectly!

Don't have any real figures but i reckon it can't be much bigger than 10-11ft and is a great little car off road, actually due to its size and weight it can put more 'serious' off roaders to shame!!

Actually it has the specs on the site you refer to.

DIMENSIONS
Length: 3,538mm (11' 8")
Width (body only): 1,589mm (5' 2.6")
Height: 1,540mm (5' 1")
Luggage capacity (rear seats up): 206 litres.
Luggage capacity 5-dr (2-seat mode up to roof): 775 litres.
Kerb weight (1.1 Active): 840kg (1.3 Multijet): 935kg (4x4): 980kg
Braked towing weights (4x4) 800kg


So its a little bit bigger than you thought, but still pretty small and very light. 1,900 lbs..

I still like the way The British call it PETROL and KERB weight...

Walter

Guess I missed that

Anyway, still shorter than a new mini (by 3") and has AWD (a very clever mechanical solution if your into that kind of thing)!

Petrol is just like gas, only difference is it costs 3x as much and sidewalk weight just sounds silly.

Very interesting Specs but probably never will be a North American version. I think Fiat withdrew from the North America in the late 70's. But the specs look real useable.

Thanks

Michael

quote:

sidewalk weight just sounds silly.

Which is why we ALSO use "curb" weight; we just spell it differently......

.....snort!....cough!....choke!.....gasp for air!.....damnit Gary!....geofkaye

Gary/Goef; you guys are killing me

stop picking on the new guys; you will scare them away

Me? Picking on anybody? C'monnnnn!
I was just making a little, how you say, linguistic commentary.....
Yeah, that's the ticket!
(Some one send the paramedix to the Kaye residence; he's having breathing difficulties again.....)

.....too late!...I need an new monitor[milk and strawberry syrup]....geofkaye