MINI2

Sejanus · Sep 22nd, 2003, 10:35 PM

Quote: Originally Posted by Spy Car

Only got to drive a Vue because an old friend bought one

.
Only drove it a couple of blocks because I was curious about the CVT. .

So does it have something like a steptronic feature?

Quote: Originally Posted by Spy Car

But believe me I understand I'm in a minority of the general car buying public in the USA. But that's part of the fun of keeping the MCS "auto-free", this way the car remains the preserve of those who value "motoring" over convenience.

So let me get this straight you get an actual sense of "fun" from knowing that some people can not obtain a type of car they might like? Charming.

Quote: Originally Posted by Spy Car

Didn't MINI create the car to fill a gap for a brother and sisterhood of drivers who wanted an alternative from luxurious but spiritually life numbing cars like Lexus, and those damn "auto transmissions"? I think so.

No, I'm pretty sure they created it to make money.

Sejanus · Sep 22nd, 2003, 10:37 PM

Quote: Originally Posted by Spy Car

You mean this isn't the CVT MCS debate?

No, this is the CVT v. MCS debate. Very important difference that.

drgrey · Sep 22nd, 2003, 11:53 PM

Is there a possibility of a CVT MCS any time soon?

Spy Car · Sep 23rd, 2003, 12:33 AM

Quote: Originally Posted by Sejanus

So does it have something like a steptronic feature?

To be honest I just don't recall. I'm pretty sure it does but I just can't recall for sure. I certainly would not pass judgements on CVTs (especialy the MINIs) based on my little drive around his neighborhood.

Quote: Originally Posted by Sejanus

So let me get this straight you get an actual sense of "fun" from knowing that some people can not obtain a type of car they might like? Charming.

No, the sense of fun comes in knowing that all the Cooper Ss will go to people who value driving cars with clutches. We are the ones being screwed in the choice department (outside of the right thinking MINI automobile company which uniquely puts the needs driving enthusiasts first). Haven't we gone over this before?

Plus the CVT is deemed unreliable for the hp and torque of the Cooper S. Doesn't that scare you just a little?

And doesn't it worry you it might cost to fix one of these technological wonders should it fail? How many mechanics do you know who work on CVTs? One has to hope that leading edge technology doesn't end up bleeding edge technology. Me, I'm happier with a bullet-proof Getreg.

Quote: Originally Posted by Sejanus

No, I'm pretty sure they created it to make money.

If it's all about money I guess you won't mind a MINI SUV

I think you've spent too much time reading the Economist.

Go outside and get some fresh air

.

Willy · Sep 23rd, 2003, 01:11 AM

One of the instructors at the MINI School our club had this weekend at Lowes Motor Speedway was highly complementary of the CVT after he took it on some laps that made the tires sing.

The Coopers CVT really shines in the sport mode. It is made for fun driving without shifting. It is a cool system in it's own right.

Maybe there should be a MINI Cooper with a supercharger and the CVT, but call it something else so our purist friends like Spycar stay happy

.

Sejanus · Sep 23rd, 2003, 05:41 AM

Quote: Originally Posted by Spy Car

To be honest I just don't recall. I'm pretty sure it does but I just can't recall for sure. I certainly would not pass judgements on CVTs (especialy the MINIs) based on my little drive around his neighborhood.

No, I was just curious as to what sort of options other CVTs offer.

Quote: Originally Posted by Spy Car

No, the sense of fun comes in knowing that all the Cooper Ss will go to people who value driving cars with clutches. We are the ones being screwed in the choice department (outside of the right thinking MINI automobile company which uniquely puts the needs driving enthusiasts first). Haven't we gone over this before?

Have we?

Quote: Originally Posted by Spy Car

Plus the CVT is deemed unreliable for the hp and torque of the Cooper S. Doesn't that scare you just a little?

Well no, because no such car actually exists (I assume for exactly that reason). When they make one that problem would no longer be an issue.

Quote: Originally Posted by Spy Car

And doesn't it worry you it might cost to fix one of these technological wonders should it fail? How many mechanics do you know who work on CVTs? One has to hope that leading edge technology doesn't end up bleeding edge technology. Me, I'm happier with a bullet-proof Getreg.

Not really. Undoubtedly a CVT is more expensive to fix than a manual, but then manual transmissions are far more likely to have problems because of the wear and tear they are subject to. I figure it is a reasonable trade off. The CVT is covered under warranty for the next few years, by then they'll be increasingly common.

Quote: Originally Posted by Spy Car

If it's all about money I guess you won't mind a MINI SUV

.

Sure, why not? It doesn't bother me what other people drive. I believe in personal choice, freedom, liberty and the American way, unlike some MAD derived characters around here. Besides if the original Mini could have a pickup truck version (funniest damn thing I've ever seen) I figure anything is fair game.

Quote: Originally Posted by Spy Car

I think you've spent too much time reading the Economist.
Go outside and get some fresh air

.

Very appropriate considering where I usually read the Economist.

Too hot up here though to go outside. It really shouldn't be 100 in late September should it?

Spy Car · Sep 23rd, 2003, 03:36 PM

Quote: Originally Posted by Sejanus

Too hot up here though to go outside. It really shouldn't be 100 in late September should it?

I feel your pain. It has been in the hundreds here too. This has been one hot summer.

No wonder we've been so cranky

It should be autumn soon. Hang in there.

drgrey · Sep 24th, 2003, 04:47 AM

OK! Here are my initial impressions. Drove both the S and the CVT today for the first time. First the S, then the CVT. Hot late afternoon so A/C on in both. Route was about a three mile rectangle on city streets with traffic varying from heavy to very light. No switchbacks, hills or lengthy straightaways, 4 or 5 stop signs and lights. I loved the S! From the combination purr and whine of the engine to the easy but notchy transmission to the responsiveness of the car-it is a jewel. Easily a 10 on a 10 point scale! I loved the CVT! Responsive, even in D, and a real scoot in SD. The manual aspect of SD is a kick, but-maybe because of my inexperience-it performed better when I just let it do its thing. The engine/exhaust sound isn't as mellow-kind of raspy, and I like the body details better on the S, but those are the only negatives for me. The performance of the CVT was almost as terrific as the S, maybe a 9.2 on that 10 point scale, given the driving conditions. And I learned something about myself as a bonus. Despite many years of 911s, I no longer like to use a clutch. It might be ok once in a while, but for a daily driver on the Ventura Freeway, trying to get from Westlake Village to West LA or downtown on a Friday afternoon, my left knee aches just thinking about it! So, as of now, even if my wife isn't interested, I'm leaning toward the CVT. I want to spend a day with one and take it over the roads Spy mentioned, but I'd be surprised if I don't feel the same afterwards-the concept of that CVT is pretty terrific and I can understand why the posters who own that car rave about it. More later...

CooperS4us · Sep 24th, 2003, 01:47 PM

Excellent report, Dr. Grey.

I can't wait to hear what our friend Spy has to say....i think I am running for cover!

Spy Car · Sep 24th, 2003, 07:41 PM

Quote: Originally Posted by drgrey

Despite many years of 911s, I no longer like to use a clutch. It might be ok once in a while, but for a daily driver on the Ventura Freeway, trying to get from Westlake Village to West LA or downtown on a Friday afternoon, my left knee aches just thinking about it! So, as of now, even if my wife isn't interested, I'm leaning toward the CVT. I want to spend a day with one and take it over the roads Spy mentioned, but I'd be surprised if I don't feel the same afterwards-the concept of that CVT is pretty terrific and I can understand why the posters who own that car rave about it. More later...

Good report Dr Grey.

I'm glad you had a good experience with the CVT. You read the long and useful "how to get the most out of a CVT" thread I assume? Some people around here think I want the CVT to fare poorly, nothing could be further from the truth.

If MINI is going to offer a non-manual version I really want it to be a good one. Most folks (including "all the usual suspects") who have the CVTs seem pretty happy (some even wildly happy) with the CVT and I'm glad for that (although to be fair, some people have ended up dissapointed with their CVTs and have gotten rid of them in favor of manuals--so the affection is not unanimous).

I'm not at all surprised that in that in traffic with no switchbacks, hills or lengthy straightaways the S would rate a 10 and the CVT a 9.2. That sounds about what I would expect (with the disadvantage of not having driven a CVT myself).

If you "no longer like to use a clutch" and you intend to use it primarily for the brutal commute from Westlake Village to West LA or downtown during rush hour then a CVT may be the best choice for you. I will caution that brutal freeway miles are not the MINIs strong suit (no matter what the transmission type).

There have been times I've been headed south on the 405 past LAX when even I have wondered if I might (for that moment) be happier in a Lexus. I hate to say it, because I could not love my MCS more---and considered MINIs to be one of the only future classic cars on the road today---but they are not the greatest freeway commuter cars.

I am somewhat afraid that when faced with the chore of beating it downtown on friday afternoon, that you will look out at the driveway and pick the Lexus every time. Let's face it that will be the more comfortable option. The MINI shows NONE of its advantages hogged up in freeway traffic.

Where the MINI will really show it's stuff is under exactly the opposite conditions you had on the test drive, that is out of traffic, with lots of switchbacks (the more the better), plenty of hills and the occasional patch of lengthy straightaways (remembering twisty is always best).

You have exactly the best and most optimal roadways in the world right in your backyard. Believe me in those canyons the sport-bikes pull over to let the MINIs pass. On MINI runs there have been several former 911 owners who claim the MINIs far surpass the Porsche on those roads.

Trust me, you feel like you are in a very expensive and exotic super-car under these conditions. The heart races as you mesh gears, and run through hair pins like you are on rails. The joy of these drives is very hard to convey without sounding over the top. Here the MCS really shines. Even in the moderate twists of Mullholland Hwy the car is a blast.

You have to figure out to what purpose you are really use the car. Is this going to be the freeway commuter car? A Lexus substitute?

Or is this the sports car you take out at every possible opportunity becase its just so much fun to drive? If you are like me, and you had a little time to spare, you may find yourself taking dying to take the MINI through the canyons to PCH when you want to get to West LA, and not suffer spiritual death on the 101/405 nightmare in the Lexus or more uncomfortably in the MINI.

When I go into the studios in Hollywood from Encino I don't take the freeway anymore Instead, I give myself a bit more time and take Mullholland Drive........and I arrive exhilarated (I mean happy happy happy), bubbling with life......just wishing the drive was a bit longer.

I hope you do take the chance to rent a MCS and get it out there on those backroads. Go alone and challenge yourself on some of the roads like Decker, Encinal, Stunt, and La Tuna. I think you will be amazed by the car. Then at least you will now what you may be passing on if you don't get the MCS.

A short test drive on a very hot (supercharger killing) day with passengers and the AC running, was a test under the worst of conditions and it still got a 10.

I would love to hear a report on the car under the best of conditions. I believe the car will blow your mind.

Peace to all

drgrey · Sep 24th, 2003, 08:37 PM

Thanks for your thoughts, Spy, you raise good points...some of which I haven't asked myself yet. I always had another car when I owned Porsches, but it got to the point where I was driving the other car all the time, except for an occasional Sunday in a Porsche, because I was becoming paranoid about driving or parking them. I'm a bit that way with the SC 430, too. So I had been thinking about the MINI as the other car-the daily driver with a high fun quotient. If it's not great for freeways, I'll have to dial that in. But, my research is just beginning. I sometimes think it's as much fun discovering a car and its variations-and making an eventual choice, as it is to own it. Thats been true for me with various cars in the past (driving my wife crazy during the process) and it may be true too about the MINI. Besides who knows whats around the corner? There will be a convertible, in about a year I'm told. That could be a blast if the body is stiff enough although the advance pictures I saw made it look kinda ugly. And could it be possible that MINI might see the value in a CVT S? Anyway, I will pursue my research diligently and report whenever I have something to contribute.

CooperS4us · Sep 24th, 2003, 08:55 PM

Nice post Spy. Did you switch the SALT brands?

Spy Car · Sep 24th, 2003, 09:29 PM

Quote: Originally Posted by drgrey

If it's not great for freeways, I'll have to dial that in.

I hope I have not overstated the case here. I live in Los Angeles, so I obviously drive freeways, I'm usually quite happy in the MCS on the freeways.

It's just the balance of what makes for "fun" tips quite a bit if you have one of those hour and a half, bumper to bumper, stop and go nightmare commutes every day. Under these conditions I can almost see why someone would buy a Cadillac or a Buick, as horrifying as that sounds. When you are in gridlock the Lexus would be a little more relaxing than a MINI (or a Porsche) I think. But the MINI isn't that bad. Even when I'm at a dead stop I have a smile on my face in the Cooper S. And there is no way I would give it up for a couch on wheels.

When the roads open up, and get less straight, these MINIs bring a lot of joy. A lot like having a 911 in the stable, for a lot less expense.

Keep us up to date. Good luck with the research.

Sejanus · Sep 24th, 2003, 09:43 PM

Ah, but that's the joy of the CVT SpyCar. You don't have to give up the joy and fun of shifting through twisties (Ok, maybe a little, but not much) while still having the convenience of an auto in heavy traffic. The best of both worlds. Give it a try sometime.

Sejanus · Sep 24th, 2003, 09:45 PM

Quote: Originally Posted by drgrey

And could it be possible that MINI might see the value in a CVT S? .

Careful, you might make SpyCar blow a gasket with that kinda talk.

Spy Car · Sep 24th, 2003, 10:08 PM

Quote: Originally Posted by CooperS4us

Nice post Spy. Did you switch the SALT brands?

As a matter of fact I did.

We have moved to Halen Mon Sea Salt from Wales.

Wonderful stuff don't you know...it's pur gwyn.

Cynaeeafwyd yng Nghyru.

Don't understand a word of it, but boy is it wonderful salt

How did you guess?

Spy Car · Sep 24th, 2003, 10:10 PM

Quote: Originally Posted by Sejanus

Careful, you might make SpyCar blow a gasket with that kinda talk.

Was trying so hard to ignore that part of the post...thanks a lot Sejanus

Where's Uncle Doug when I need him?

Sep 23rd, 2003, 01:11 AM	#45 (permalink)
Willy MINI2 Master Join Date: Oct 2002 Location: Running From The Law Local Time: 06:59 AM Posts: 2,420 Offline	One of the instructors at the MINI School our club had this weekend at Lowes Motor Speedway was highly complementary of the CVT after he took it on some laps that made the tires sing. The Coopers CVT really shines in the sport mode. It is made for fun driving without shifting. It is a cool system in it's own right. Maybe there should be a MINI Cooper with a supercharger and the CVT, but call it something else so our purist friends like Spycar stay happy . http://billlawrence.blogspot.com

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Sep 22nd, 2003, 10:35 PM	#41
Sejanus Moderator Join Date: Feb 2002 Location: West Sacramento Local Time: 03:59 AM Posts: 4,319 Offline	Quote: Originally Posted by Spy Car Only got to drive a Vue because an old friend bought one . Only drove it a couple of blocks because I was curious about the CVT. . So does it have something like a steptronic feature? Quote: Originally Posted by Spy Car But believe me I understand I'm in a minority of the general car buying public in the USA. But that's part of the fun of keeping the MCS "auto-free", this way the car remains the preserve of those who value "motoring" over convenience. So let me get this straight you get an actual sense of "fun" from knowing that some people can not obtain a type of car they might like? Charming. Quote: Originally Posted by Spy Car Didn't MINI create the car to fill a gap for a brother and sisterhood of drivers who wanted an alternative from luxurious but spiritually life numbing cars like Lexus, and those damn "auto transmissions"? I think so. No, I'm pretty sure they created it to make money.

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Sep 22nd, 2003, 10:37 PM	#42 (permalink)
Sejanus Moderator Join Date: Feb 2002 Location: West Sacramento Local Time: 03:59 AM Posts: 4,319 Offline	Quote: Originally Posted by Spy Car You mean this isn't the CVT MCS debate? No, this is the CVT v. MCS debate. Very important difference that.

Sep 22nd, 2003, 11:53 PM	#43 (permalink)
drgrey MINI2 Newbie Join Date: Sep 2003 Location: Westlake Village, Ca Local Time: 05:59 AM Posts: 35 Offline	Is there a possibility of a CVT MCS any time soon?

Sep 23rd, 2003, 12:33 AM	#44 (permalink)
Spy Car I miss Ruthie Join Date: Aug 2002 Location: City of the Angels Local Time: 03:59 AM Posts: 6,381 Offline	Quote: Originally Posted by Sejanus So does it have something like a steptronic feature? To be honest I just don't recall. I'm pretty sure it does but I just can't recall for sure. I certainly would not pass judgements on CVTs (especialy the MINIs) based on my little drive around his neighborhood. Quote: Originally Posted by Sejanus So let me get this straight you get an actual sense of "fun" from knowing that some people can not obtain a type of car they might like? Charming. No, the sense of fun comes in knowing that all the Cooper Ss will go to people who value driving cars with clutches. We are the ones being screwed in the choice department (outside of the right thinking MINI automobile company which uniquely puts the needs driving enthusiasts first). Haven't we gone over this before? Plus the CVT is deemed unreliable for the hp and torque of the Cooper S. Doesn't that scare you just a little? And doesn't it worry you it might cost to fix one of these technological wonders should it fail? How many mechanics do you know who work on CVTs? One has to hope that leading edge technology doesn't end up bleeding edge technology. Me, I'm happier with a bullet-proof Getreg. Quote: Originally Posted by Sejanus No, I'm pretty sure they created it to make money. If it's all about money I guess you won't mind a MINI SUV I think you've spent too much time reading the Economist. Go outside and get some fresh air .

Sep 23rd, 2003, 05:41 AM	#46 (permalink)
Sejanus Moderator Join Date: Feb 2002 Location: West Sacramento Local Time: 03:59 AM Posts: 4,319 Offline	Quote: Originally Posted by Spy Car To be honest I just don't recall. I'm pretty sure it does but I just can't recall for sure. I certainly would not pass judgements on CVTs (especialy the MINIs) based on my little drive around his neighborhood. No, I was just curious as to what sort of options other CVTs offer. Quote: Originally Posted by Spy Car No, the sense of fun comes in knowing that all the Cooper Ss will go to people who value driving cars with clutches. We are the ones being screwed in the choice department (outside of the right thinking MINI automobile company which uniquely puts the needs driving enthusiasts first). Haven't we gone over this before? Have we? Quote: Originally Posted by Spy Car Plus the CVT is deemed unreliable for the hp and torque of the Cooper S. Doesn't that scare you just a little? Well no, because no such car actually exists (I assume for exactly that reason). When they make one that problem would no longer be an issue. Quote: Originally Posted by Spy Car And doesn't it worry you it might cost to fix one of these technological wonders should it fail? How many mechanics do you know who work on CVTs? One has to hope that leading edge technology doesn't end up bleeding edge technology. Me, I'm happier with a bullet-proof Getreg. Not really. Undoubtedly a CVT is more expensive to fix than a manual, but then manual transmissions are far more likely to have problems because of the wear and tear they are subject to. I figure it is a reasonable trade off. The CVT is covered under warranty for the next few years, by then they'll be increasingly common. Quote: Originally Posted by Spy Car If it's all about money I guess you won't mind a MINI SUV . Sure, why not? It doesn't bother me what other people drive. I believe in personal choice, freedom, liberty and the American way, unlike some MAD derived characters around here. Besides if the original Mini could have a pickup truck version (funniest damn thing I've ever seen) I figure anything is fair game. Quote: Originally Posted by Spy Car I think you've spent too much time reading the Economist. Go outside and get some fresh air . Very appropriate considering where I usually read the Economist. Too hot up here though to go outside. It really shouldn't be 100 in late September should it?

Sep 23rd, 2003, 03:36 PM	#47 (permalink)
Spy Car I miss Ruthie Join Date: Aug 2002 Location: City of the Angels Local Time: 03:59 AM Posts: 6,381 Offline	Quote: Originally Posted by Sejanus Too hot up here though to go outside. It really shouldn't be 100 in late September should it? I feel your pain. It has been in the hundreds here too. This has been one hot summer. No wonder we've been so cranky It should be autumn soon. Hang in there.

Sep 24th, 2003, 04:47 AM	#48 (permalink)
drgrey MINI2 Newbie Join Date: Sep 2003 Location: Westlake Village, Ca Local Time: 05:59 AM Posts: 35 Offline	OK! Here are my initial impressions. Drove both the S and the CVT today for the first time. First the S, then the CVT. Hot late afternoon so A/C on in both. Route was about a three mile rectangle on city streets with traffic varying from heavy to very light. No switchbacks, hills or lengthy straightaways, 4 or 5 stop signs and lights. I loved the S! From the combination purr and whine of the engine to the easy but notchy transmission to the responsiveness of the car-it is a jewel. Easily a 10 on a 10 point scale! I loved the CVT! Responsive, even in D, and a real scoot in SD. The manual aspect of SD is a kick, but-maybe because of my inexperience-it performed better when I just let it do its thing. The engine/exhaust sound isn't as mellow-kind of raspy, and I like the body details better on the S, but those are the only negatives for me. The performance of the CVT was almost as terrific as the S, maybe a 9.2 on that 10 point scale, given the driving conditions. And I learned something about myself as a bonus. Despite many years of 911s, I no longer like to use a clutch. It might be ok once in a while, but for a daily driver on the Ventura Freeway, trying to get from Westlake Village to West LA or downtown on a Friday afternoon, my left knee aches just thinking about it! So, as of now, even if my wife isn't interested, I'm leaning toward the CVT. I want to spend a day with one and take it over the roads Spy mentioned, but I'd be surprised if I don't feel the same afterwards-the concept of that CVT is pretty terrific and I can understand why the posters who own that car rave about it. More later...

Sep 24th, 2003, 01:47 PM	#49 (permalink)
CooperS4us MINI2 Master Join Date: Aug 2003 Location: South Florida Local Time: 06:59 AM Posts: 951 Offline	Excellent report, Dr. Grey. I can't wait to hear what our friend Spy has to say....i think I am running for cover!

Sep 24th, 2003, 07:41 PM	#50 (permalink)
Spy Car I miss Ruthie Join Date: Aug 2002 Location: City of the Angels Local Time: 03:59 AM Posts: 6,381 Offline	Quote: Originally Posted by drgrey Despite many years of 911s, I no longer like to use a clutch. It might be ok once in a while, but for a daily driver on the Ventura Freeway, trying to get from Westlake Village to West LA or downtown on a Friday afternoon, my left knee aches just thinking about it! So, as of now, even if my wife isn't interested, I'm leaning toward the CVT. I want to spend a day with one and take it over the roads Spy mentioned, but I'd be surprised if I don't feel the same afterwards-the concept of that CVT is pretty terrific and I can understand why the posters who own that car rave about it. More later... Good report Dr Grey. I'm glad you had a good experience with the CVT. You read the long and useful "how to get the most out of a CVT" thread I assume? Some people around here think I want the CVT to fare poorly, nothing could be further from the truth. If MINI is going to offer a non-manual version I really want it to be a good one. Most folks (including "all the usual suspects") who have the CVTs seem pretty happy (some even wildly happy) with the CVT and I'm glad for that (although to be fair, some people have ended up dissapointed with their CVTs and have gotten rid of them in favor of manuals--so the affection is not unanimous). I'm not at all surprised that in that in traffic with no switchbacks, hills or lengthy straightaways the S would rate a 10 and the CVT a 9.2. That sounds about what I would expect (with the disadvantage of not having driven a CVT myself). If you "no longer like to use a clutch" and you intend to use it primarily for the brutal commute from Westlake Village to West LA or downtown during rush hour then a CVT may be the best choice for you. I will caution that brutal freeway miles are not the MINIs strong suit (no matter what the transmission type). There have been times I've been headed south on the 405 past LAX when even I have wondered if I might (for that moment) be happier in a Lexus. I hate to say it, because I could not love my MCS more---and considered MINIs to be one of the only future classic cars on the road today---but they are not the greatest freeway commuter cars. I am somewhat afraid that when faced with the chore of beating it downtown on friday afternoon, that you will look out at the driveway and pick the Lexus every time. Let's face it that will be the more comfortable option. The MINI shows NONE of its advantages hogged up in freeway traffic. Where the MINI will really show it's stuff is under exactly the opposite conditions you had on the test drive, that is out of traffic, with lots of switchbacks (the more the better), plenty of hills and the occasional patch of lengthy straightaways (remembering twisty is always best). You have exactly the best and most optimal roadways in the world right in your backyard. Believe me in those canyons the sport-bikes pull over to let the MINIs pass. On MINI runs there have been several former 911 owners who claim the MINIs far surpass the Porsche on those roads. Trust me, you feel like you are in a very expensive and exotic super-car under these conditions. The heart races as you mesh gears, and run through hair pins like you are on rails. The joy of these drives is very hard to convey without sounding over the top. Here the MCS really shines. Even in the moderate twists of Mullholland Hwy the car is a blast. You have to figure out to what purpose you are really use the car. Is this going to be the freeway commuter car? A Lexus substitute? Or is this the sports car you take out at every possible opportunity becase its just so much fun to drive? If you are like me, and you had a little time to spare, you may find yourself taking dying to take the MINI through the canyons to PCH when you want to get to West LA, and not suffer spiritual death on the 101/405 nightmare in the Lexus or more uncomfortably in the MINI. When I go into the studios in Hollywood from Encino I don't take the freeway anymore Instead, I give myself a bit more time and take Mullholland Drive........and I arrive exhilarated (I mean happy happy happy), bubbling with life......just wishing the drive was a bit longer. I hope you do take the chance to rent a MCS and get it out there on those backroads. Go alone and challenge yourself on some of the roads like Decker, Encinal, Stunt, and La Tuna. I think you will be amazed by the car. Then at least you will now what you may be passing on if you don't get the MCS. A short test drive on a very hot (supercharger killing) day with passengers and the AC running, was a test under the worst of conditions and it still got a 10. I would love to hear a report on the car under the best of conditions. I believe the car will blow your mind. Peace to all

Sep 24th, 2003, 08:37 PM	#51 (permalink)
drgrey MINI2 Newbie Join Date: Sep 2003 Location: Westlake Village, Ca Local Time: 05:59 AM Posts: 35 Offline	Thanks for your thoughts, Spy, you raise good points...some of which I haven't asked myself yet. I always had another car when I owned Porsches, but it got to the point where I was driving the other car all the time, except for an occasional Sunday in a Porsche, because I was becoming paranoid about driving or parking them. I'm a bit that way with the SC 430, too. So I had been thinking about the MINI as the other car-the daily driver with a high fun quotient. If it's not great for freeways, I'll have to dial that in. But, my research is just beginning. I sometimes think it's as much fun discovering a car and its variations-and making an eventual choice, as it is to own it. Thats been true for me with various cars in the past (driving my wife crazy during the process) and it may be true too about the MINI. Besides who knows whats around the corner? There will be a convertible, in about a year I'm told. That could be a blast if the body is stiff enough although the advance pictures I saw made it look kinda ugly. And could it be possible that MINI might see the value in a CVT S? Anyway, I will pursue my research diligently and report whenever I have something to contribute.

Sep 24th, 2003, 08:55 PM	#52 (permalink)
CooperS4us MINI2 Master Join Date: Aug 2003 Location: South Florida Local Time: 06:59 AM Posts: 951 Offline	Nice post Spy. Did you switch the SALT brands?

Sep 24th, 2003, 09:29 PM	#53 (permalink)
Spy Car I miss Ruthie Join Date: Aug 2002 Location: City of the Angels Local Time: 03:59 AM Posts: 6,381 Offline	Quote: Originally Posted by drgrey If it's not great for freeways, I'll have to dial that in. I hope I have not overstated the case here. I live in Los Angeles, so I obviously drive freeways, I'm usually quite happy in the MCS on the freeways. It's just the balance of what makes for "fun" tips quite a bit if you have one of those hour and a half, bumper to bumper, stop and go nightmare commutes every day. Under these conditions I can almost see why someone would buy a Cadillac or a Buick, as horrifying as that sounds. When you are in gridlock the Lexus would be a little more relaxing than a MINI (or a Porsche) I think. But the MINI isn't that bad. Even when I'm at a dead stop I have a smile on my face in the Cooper S. And there is no way I would give it up for a couch on wheels. When the roads open up, and get less straight, these MINIs bring a lot of joy. A lot like having a 911 in the stable, for a lot less expense. Keep us up to date. Good luck with the research.

Sep 24th, 2003, 09:43 PM	#54 (permalink)
Sejanus Moderator Join Date: Feb 2002 Location: West Sacramento Local Time: 03:59 AM Posts: 4,319 Offline	Ah, but that's the joy of the CVT SpyCar. You don't have to give up the joy and fun of shifting through twisties (Ok, maybe a little, but not much) while still having the convenience of an auto in heavy traffic. The best of both worlds. Give it a try sometime.

Sep 24th, 2003, 09:45 PM	#55 (permalink)
Sejanus Moderator Join Date: Feb 2002 Location: West Sacramento Local Time: 03:59 AM Posts: 4,319 Offline	Quote: Originally Posted by drgrey And could it be possible that MINI might see the value in a CVT S? . Careful, you might make SpyCar blow a gasket with that kinda talk.

Sep 24th, 2003, 10:08 PM	#56 (permalink)
Spy Car I miss Ruthie Join Date: Aug 2002 Location: City of the Angels Local Time: 03:59 AM Posts: 6,381 Offline	Quote: Originally Posted by CooperS4us Nice post Spy. Did you switch the SALT brands? As a matter of fact I did. We have moved to Halen Mon Sea Salt from Wales. Wonderful stuff don't you know...it's pur gwyn. Cynaeeafwyd yng Nghyru. Don't understand a word of it, but boy is it wonderful salt How did you guess?

Sep 24th, 2003, 10:10 PM	#57 (permalink)
Spy Car I miss Ruthie Join Date: Aug 2002 Location: City of the Angels Local Time: 03:59 AM Posts: 6,381 Offline	Quote: Originally Posted by Sejanus Careful, you might make SpyCar blow a gasket with that kinda talk. Was trying so hard to ignore that part of the post...thanks a lot Sejanus Where's Uncle Doug when I need him?

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