We have got both but they are completely different cars so I don't think that you can compare them too much .
IMO the 500 is easier too drive but it is smaller and I cannot get used to 6th gear on the L.
I think the styling on the 500 wins hands down and in this respect the styling should be more consistent on both models :why are the dashboards so different ? The one in the 500 is a work of art .Why square headrests not round ? why no dash mounted gear stick? All of the Mini family share common styling so you know it is a Mini.
Shouldn't be called a 500 (L) IMO but that's marketing ( and the 500x is also very different )I think that Fiat have missed a trick��