I'm in central Massachusetts...get some good snows and drive like you're not an idiot and you'll be fine. Or drive like an idiot and really have some fun.
As far as practicality is concerned, the Mini has it beat, but in reality, how often are you trying to max out your car in terms of cargo? I'm not doing that very frequently, so the trade off is worth it for me. On that note, with the back seat down, I was able to get the entire cat-back exhaust system for a Jeep Liberty in my FRS, all in one piece. The guys at the dealer couldn't believe it, and frankly, I was pretty shocked and pleased as well. lol