I had a 2008 Mini Clubman for a few years I’d have it back in a heartbeat. Small, nippy, comfortable, cheap to run, easy to see out of, felt quality inside and looked nice outside. Don’t be dissuaded, they’re a great car. Personally, I wouldn’t buy a 1.4, but I can understand why you would in your circumstances.
Th clutch in a one is far less likely to go than in a Cooper S, so I wouldn’t worry too much. Find a local Indy to work on it and it should be a geart car. She’s a lucky girl.
Fiesta is also a great car, but far more prone to rust and electrical faults