[2FST4U]

I'm a lazy driver, so I like to drive automatics. On the other hand, I like my cars to go fast. Does anyone know if it will be possible to add the type of horse power you get with a MINI Mania upgrade to the Automatic version of the S? I know some automatics can't handle the additional horsepower, but there are supercharger kits for other makes of vehicles that work just fine with automatic models. Just curious....

It'd be great to be lazy and fast at the same time!

2FST4U

[usaminicooper]

good question. This has been on some MINI2 threads. Simple answer is yes.
This is the same engine as every S model. As far as Mini Mania is concerned, it is your decision what upgrade to use to acheive the results that you require in increased hp.
I'm considering an auto S also. I have written a thread called Cabrio: willing to wat untill 1/05 for automatic. changes my thoughts use search in Mini2, some interesting feedback. Also check out all performance upgrades before installing.
Many are good some are waste of your money

[caminifan]

Quote: Originally Posted by 2FST4U

Does anyone know if it will be possible to add the type of horse power you get with a MINI Mania upgrade to the Automatic version of the S?

Unfortunately, until there is more official information released regarding the torque rating of the transmission and transaxle in the automatic MCS, it is a bit soon to be able to definitely answer your question. One rumor has the transmission as a transverse edition of the transmission that is available with the Z4. Even if the rumor is in fact true, there still is the question regarding rated torque capacity. Unfortunately, you can not extend the torque capacity of an inline transmission to a transverse version of the same transmission - there is the matter of the transaxle; if it can not handle the higher torque capacity of the transmission, you will have a shredded transaxle before you know it.

I really hope that BMW/MINI publish more information about the MCS automatic transmission option (and sooner, rather than later) - I for one am waiting on placing an order until I can assess the extent to which more power can be applied.

[stryder]

If you want a car to go fast, that has an automatic, go buy a pontiac GTO automatic. At $33K or so, its a bit more expensive then an S with some aftermarket performance stuff, but there's no way you'll ever get a MINI to be fast, if that's what you're looking for.

A MINI isn't about speed, its about cornering and good handling and being involved in driving. I'm not really sure that's what your looking for.

[2FST4U]

I was hoping that Paul might know something and drop us a hint...

A MINI with a 245hp engine is going to be pretty darn fast. The power to weight ratio is pretty impressive. Yeah, I know it's not going to compete against a Mitsubishi Evo or BMW M3, but I'd be willing to bet that it would give them a run for their money in a twisty course.

I know a lot of people here at MINI2 have the mentality that a true sports car shouldn't be an automatic. That's simply a part of how they grew up and in some cases a different culture. I've driven in automatic Porsche's and Corvettes... Why did their owners drive this type of car? They've all had the same answer. They didn't spend 10's of thousands of dollars to have to do all of the work. Yet, they wanted the performance and looks that these cars had to offer. Yeah, an automatic Porsche is going to get beat by a manually driven Porsche 9 out of 10 times, but then again that automatic Porsche is going to beat 19 out of 20 other types of cars off the line. Some people like to make all of the decisions for the car, some would rather make the decision for them. It's just a matter of opinion not worth arguing over. Obviously, MINI sees it this way, too. There's no right or wrong about a manual vs. automatic transmission. Different strokes for differerent folks...

I've test driven the MINI S. The handling is amazing. The fact that BMW is producing a car that fits all of my wants is the reason I'm waiting to get the S automatic. It'll handle well, look good, be easy to drive, and if something like a MINI Mania kit can be added... be fast!

Additional torque produced by more HP was my concern that one of these kits might prove to be a problem with the automatic transmission. As has already been demonstrated, there are many here that post with more knowledge than myself that aren't sure of the answer quite yet. Thanks for the great posts! I can't wait for MINI to release more info, too. What's the hold up?

I'll check out the other threads provided and pray that BMW/MINI is going to engineer this car with the option of upgrading.

Thanks again for spending the time to help a lazy guy out...

2FST4U

[stryder]

A MINI isn'
t a true sports car, its a performance car. A true sports car is way different from a MINI, most notably, because its RWD, usually has 2 seats, and is a fair amount lighter. Say a Lotus Elise, which is under 2,000 lbs. A porsche is also a good example, except for the Cayenne of course.

The hold up on more info, is MINI never releases info about updated changes officially until they absolutely need to, which is about 6 weeks before production starts, because people need to start ordering then. Up to that point, its all rumors basically.

I still can't believe, regardless of views on transmissions, you're proud you're lazy... Its not exactly the best trait to posess, but hey, whatever works for you.

[2FST4U]

If the Cooper S isn't a sports car, then why do so many people have a problem with it being an automatic, too? And if BMW/MINI engineers this right, why can't I have an automatic that goes fast?

I'm not sure what the intent of your posts is. It seems like you've tried talking me out of wanting a MINI Cooper S automatic. Well, the kind of lazy I'm talking about is the the same kind of lazy that lead to cars with electric starters, power windows and locks, power seats, etc. I drive automatics for the convenience. Sure it takes a little away from the control, but then again I don't have worry about the darn clutch in heavy traffic, either. There's always a compromise with convenience. Some of us are willing to live with small compromises to get to a certain level of convenience. I'm just hoping that with the S automatic I won't have to compromise the ability to upgrade the supercharger if I like. For those of us that don't care about the convenience and don't want to make compromises, MINI affords us the ability to purchase manual transmissions. Then again, maybe MINI should make a car that has a crank starter so that we can have more control and start our cars at any time without worrying about push starting or worrying about the electric starter failing due to a dead battery... Nah!

With the right performance upgrades, the MINI is exactly what I'm looking for in a car.

Thanks for the info as to when MINI usually releases data. It's going to be a looong wait...

2FST4U

[17mini17]

Mini cooper S is the best if there will be cooper S automatic gearbox, who is going to buy cooper, those who can't afford cooper S is this end of mini cooper ??

[stryder]

You called yourself lazy, so I was just using that. And the logic behind being annoyed about a manual transmission is rather complicated, if you want everyone's view on it, I'd suggest checking out the other posts regarding it in future variants (and a few in the MCS forum) Its clearly just a personal feeling for most people, so its hard to describe, and always gets into a heated discussion.

A MINI is more of a performance car then a sports car, or as BMW likes to say an ultimate driving machine.

It will be a long wait, but it is halfway through the summer, so if you can wait a few more months, you should have the info, and nothing's to say stuff won't leak out unofficially. Most of the info happens that way much before MINI gets around to announcing it.

And as far as the demise of the Cooper, I do suspect they will become much less popular, but there's still a nice for them, and the CVT is unique, so I'm sure they'll continue to be sold.

[jazmini]

2FST4U, good analogy. I know there are many who feel a true sports car is a manual -- they also feel a true sports car is definitely a drop top. Some even claim it has to have but 2 seats. Some say it has to be fast, etc. Everyone has their own opinion.

IMO, the MINI is a sports car. My definition is that it has to perform well and be fun! Look at our little joy -- it is one of but a handful of the best handling cars you can buy, with many other features, i.e., good brakes, tires, etc. But it is unique in that it is an economical and practical sports car, i.e., not expensive with a back seat. If it had no back seat, people would call it a sports car probably, certainly the S model. Perhaps because there are some lower hp MINIs, that may keep it from being considered a sports car by most. But the MR2 Spyder and Miata are not powerful engines. Who decides whether a car is or isn't a sports car? Perhaps it is the manufacturer and how they market it. BMW has marketed the MINI not as a sports car but a sporty coupe. To me, what is the difference? Not much if any. If I owned a Celica, I'd call it a sports car too.

Look at the Porsche 911, it has a back seat and many claim it is the best sports car in the world (of course with the Elise out now that can be challenged). You can get the 911 with an auto, so I don't understand what all the commotion is all about with an auto S, as it will still be a fun (sports) car.

[usaminicooper]

2FST4U: Finally, here is a post I agree with 100%.

Quote:

I the Cooper S isn't a sports car, then why do so many people have a problem with it being an automatic, too? And if BMW/MINI engineers this right, why can't I have an automatic that goes fast?

Quote:

I'm not sure what the intent of your posts is. It seems like you've tried talking me out of wanting a MINI Cooper S automatic.

Quote:

Well, the kind of lazy I'm talking about is the the same kind of lazy that lead to cars with electric starters, power windows and locks, power seats, etc. I drive automatics for the convenience. Sure it takes a little away from the control, but then again I don't have worry about the darn clutch in heavy traffic, either. There's always a compromise with convenience. Some of us are willing to live with small compromises to get to a certain level of convenience. I'm just hoping that with the S automatic I won't have to compromise the ability to upgrade the supercharger if I like. For those of us that don't care about the convenience and don't want to make compromises, MINI affords us the ability to purchase manual transmissions.

Quote:

Then again, maybe MINI should make a car that has a crank starter so that we can have more control and start our cars at any time without worrying about push starting or worrying about the electric starter failing due to a dead battery... Nah!

STRYDER you are young, and history is has left your mind in a time warp.

[u]Convenience like we have in the MC S would be called a rich man's coupe/sedan.
loved m MGA in the winter cranking it up. NOT!!!!! convenience+electric starter thats the ticket.

And the MGA,Morgan,etc was sportcars, I owned both
. A real sports car years ago had nothing electric except a cheap starter. No Air conditioning,windows,seats etc That was for sedans. It had a big engine compartment for big mods!
This MINI is a fast Go-Kart with convenience and style. Is there a reason why this S should not have a automatic with all the other conveniences?
I ask the question.
I will give you the answer.
NO! NO! NO! reason why not.....


[quote]With the right performance upgrades, the MINI is exactly what I'm looking for in a car.
The fact that BMW is producing a car that fits all of my wants is the reason I'm waiting to get the S automatic. It'll handle well, look good, be easy to drive, and if something like a MINI Mania kit can be added... be fast!

Quote:

Quote:

I'm talking about is the the same kind of lazy that lead to cars with electric starters, power windows and locks, power seats, etc. I drive automatics for the convenience

It seems that 2FST4U has mind control. You have written exactly what should be said.

[stryder]

I am young, but what about the Lotus elise?

Only 2000 imported for the first year starting in a month or so, all of which are spoken for, and costing about $40K. No carpet, manual windows, (ok A/C, but it does get hot). Drop top. Less then 2,000 lbs. Isn't that true to the sports car ethic?

And an MCS is a rich man's sedan. You spend $20K for it minium (more if you get the auto). You can buy basic transportation in about the same size in a Chevy Aveo for about half the price. You're paying twice as much for something, because both cars will get you around, its a matter of how you want to get around.

And as far as lacking the other conviences, power windows, compfy seats, electric starting all don't affect the way you drive, its just a matter of how comfortable you are. Shifting is a different story. I regularly drive automatics for various reasons, and every time I drive them I think, wow this is really easy. And I totally catch myself being utterly bored by the driving and just along for the ride. Sure its easier, sure its a convience, and it detracts from being involved in driving. If you like that, so be it, but its more about getting from point A to point B in an easy and simple way then it is motoring or enjoying the ride, which is what a MINI is about.

[usaminicooper]

Quote:

Only 2000 imported for the first year starting in a month or so, all of which are spoken for, and costing about $40K. No carpet, manual windows, (ok A/C, but it does get hot). Drop top. Less then 2,000 lbs. Isn't that true to the sports car ethic?

You are right on on this car!!!

Quote:

Sure its easier, sure its a convience, and it detracts from being involved in driving. If you like that, so be it, but its more about getting from point A to point B in an easy and simple way then it is motoring or enjoying the ride, which is what a MINI is about.

I have driven a car with paddles and it did not detract from being involved or enjoying the ride.
I'm in a wait and see mode.....

[stryder]

I haven't driven a car with paddles, I have driven ones with shiftable automatics. They drove like a normal automatic, right down to the lag between shifts, as if the transmission only sorta listens to you. Not my idea of shifting, and I can see why people generally just leave them in Drive, its not worth bothering.

Perhaps if BMW can come up with an automatic that shifts very quickly and well, it'd make sense, but when they have already developed and sold an SMG which does exactly that, why would they bother refining a normal automatic hoping to meet an existing product. They have been clearly spending their effort on CVT and SMG and 6 and 7 speed automatics, not something that they seem to just be putting in due to demand from US customers.

[2FST4U]

The first paragraph in this article says it all:

http://www.wordiq.com/definition/Sports_car

The MINI is one of the top handling cars in the world. It has been proven to beat cars that cost five to six times more in the slalom. At one time, it was the champion! Obviously, we don't have enough details yet to make educated remarks. The lowly citizens of this forum don't know what type of shifting will be incorporated into the MC S automatic. Yes, there are a few individuals that have driven it, but their lips are sealed at this time. I'm praying that SMG is incorporated into this car, but then again I'm not holding my breath. If it does have SMG, it can't really be considered an automatic in the usual sense. It can't be considered a regular manual transmission, either. It's simply something new. It removes the lag of shifting a clutch and prevents the driver from harming the car. At the same time, it allows you to "drop the clutch" and a lot of the usual benifits that a manual transmission affords. It will launch the car at optimal tire spin and engine RPM's. It gives the driver the level of control he or she desires. If it's good for an M3, it's good enough for a MINI any day of the week.

Alas, we don't have the details, so it's pointless to go around in circles. MINI has announced that there will be a MC S automatic. I'm going to buy one. Whether or not I'll be able to upgrade it is another story. Here's hoping...

The last time I checked, the Chevy neither had the looks or handling performance of the MINI. If I wanted speed on the cheap, I'd buy an EVO or WRX. Neither of these matches the image and handling of the MINI, however. You're right, it is about how I want to get around...

Best regards!

2FST4U

[stryder]

MINI hasn't annouced anything technically. They've internally told their dealers an automatic transmission with paddles will be available Jan 1st onward.

I don't think anyone has ever said it will be an SMG, and everyone in the know says normal automatic.

Also, the internal PDF: http://motoringfile.com/files/2005_Individual_Specs.pdf on the second line says 'Automatic Transmission' I don't know anywhere where BMW has called the SMG an Automatic transmission, and on the first line, they specifically say CVT.

Sure I could be wrong, but no one has said anything to support the SMG besides hoping for it, so I think its highly unlikely, hence I've been working with the assumption that its a normal auto, and thus have views on it. An SMG is totally different, and from my view, irrelevant on an S unless something changes in the plan for options.