[rec]

Quote: Originally Posted by Motoringfile.com

As we’ve reported previously, the 2007 MINI design was being largely shaped by the new European pedestrian impact regulations recently put in place. However we thought a closer look at the subject might be helpful in understanding what the MINI design team were up against in designing the R56.

For a topic like this, an expert opinion was clearly in order. Luckily we just happen to know one of the best. Long time MotoringFile reader and MINI owner Eric Kennedy knows all about the auto-relate injuries. He’s a military and auto safety researcher at Virginia Tech, who is currently working on projects that determine the human tolerance to impact loading (i.e. car crashes), and evaluating occupant protection systems. To say that he’s qualified would be an understatement.

Interesting article, check it out here: MotoringFile » Archive » 2007 MINI Pedestrian Protection Analysis

[MyNameIsEarl]

Quote: Originally Posted by rec (original)

So it seems the inflated hood line may be here to stay, at least for the short term. But, if you consider what the new design accomplishes in terms of packaging both safety and styling, the accomplishments of MINI’s engineers are pretty impressive. While it is true that the MINI’s new nose may not have the charm of the R50/R53’s well-proportioned lines, I think we have to be appreciative of the fact that the latest MINI can retain so much of the flavor of the Mini’s and MINI’s of the past, while continuing to keep up with the increasingly stringent safety regulations.

That doesn't explain the slanted front lights (not as bad as on the Traveller concept), the huge plasticky side indicators, big bonnet gap and huge rear lights. The general shape is fine, but these things IMO move away the new MINI too much from the original design. And that isn't good.

[rec]

i didn't write that, but here's my input:
i read somewhere why the lights were pointed out, i think it was to do with the bonnet. straight headlights looked weird, so they pointed them outwards slightly.
the rear lights are larger cos the **** end of the car is larger. the little ones would have looked too small.

i dont know why they did the side indicators the way they did... i cant wait for aftermarket options to appear to make them a little more, shall we say, stylish !

[rec]

hope not

[mikeythemini]

When I saw the title of this thread I thought you were going to say you had hit a pedestrian & comment on how they appreciated being hit by an R56 instead of an R53

[rec]

"what ho chap, many thanks for hitting me with your fine example of a MINI" ;]

[baskers]

Quote: Originally Posted by mikeythemini (original)

When I saw the title of this thread I thought you were going to say you had hit a pedestrian & comment on how they appreciated being hit by an R56 instead of an R53

PMSL