Cars.com Faceoff: 2008 Mini Cooper Clubman, Scion xB, Smart ForTwo

You probably just read that headline and said to yourself, boy, these Cars.com people don't know what they're doing, comparing three cars of different prices and configurations. That would be true if we were basing it on just their MSRP, but this is the Iconic Car Faceoff, so we chose three radically styled yet relatively affordable and fuel-efficient cars.

They're also three of the most eye-catching rides around, for various reasons. Check out how the hype mixes with reality, and where it pays off for each, in the throwdown below.

Cars.comparison: Iconic Cars

Comments

[Mart]

I think it's such a shame that the Scion got so large when it was redesigned. I actually like the design but in person it's HUGE. Surely this is one of those prime occassions where Toyota really should not have listened to the focus groups. What made the original model so cool was it's crazy box styling and the fact it was actually an interesting small car. The current model is just a weird looking big car.

I have however started seeing them as Taxis around downtown Chicago, which is a side effect of them being huge. If they start forcing out those wheezing Crown Vics then I guess that is one good thing...

[Cj]

If I wanted a car that makes a statement in the sub-20 grand range the xB wouldn't even be on my list. It's just a big bloated econobox. So for me it'd be a toss-up between the mini and the smart. I think I'd choose the mini, but that's probably considered too conservative for the type of people that buy cars to make a statement. So most style conscious consumers would probably choose the "flashier" smart.

[als]

The mini is the way to go. The best mpg's and the best resale value.

[Tina]

The Mini is the way to go, especially since they started making the Clubman. Resale being what it is, the Mini is the winner.