MINI2

AidenL · May 9th, 2008, 08:06 AM

Quote: Originally Posted by Martin L (original)

Right guys had my TT almost a month now, it's run in and after a great days blast in the countryside yesterdays I think I've now got a more detailed opinion of the car

Engine:
What a peach - this is the smoothest, most accomplished turbo I've experienced. Torque is there right from 1200rpm and despite that there is still a surge of "turbo" boost when it cranks up more at around 3500rpm
There's a nice thrumb to the engine, almost like a five-pot and this engine cackles and pops like the MINI. It's one loud MFer....
Tunnels or built up areas are a joy
Only slight problem I've experienced is I feel it could do with more power for the motorway. The instantaneous acceleration isn't there, so you need to drop a few cogs before blasting off. I guess because it cruises at 70mph at around 2500rpm, which is low...

Gearbox:
Audi have got this spot on. It thinks like I think, it's uncanny. The most impressive part is as you approach corners, most autos will change up as you lift off. Not the TT, it drops a gear ready for you to punch out of the corner. It even does this in normal mode, not just sport.
Sport mode is harsher then normal with changes even faster then you could imagine, but this does lead to jerkyness if kept in sport at slow speeds. A small price to pay as it blips the throttle on dwonshifts
All this talent and yet it's concious enough to keep revs low and help maintain an incredible mpg.

Ride/suspension/handling:
This is the BEST attribute of the car. All car manufacturers need to have this period.
It'll be very difficult for me to own another car without it. It is a huge step in car technology.
The ride is soft and supple when not pushing hard, and then when corners come it transforms into a sharp handling sports car.
Admittedly the "feel" of the MINI isn't there, which I wish they could improve upon, but there's enough there to give confidence so you can place the car correctly for corners.
There is little hint of understeer with this car, better then the MINI I would say, however, it doesn't feel as nimble. It's a heavier and bigger car, so I wouldn't expect it to. You do have a feeling of waiting for the rear to come around, but I think it could be my driving style, as I'm still used to RWD so I haven't explored what the rear end can really do. I need to get into the mindset of point the front wheels in the right direction and plant the loud pedal and the rear will follow. Next time I'm out for a spirited drive I'll try and take that attitude

Interior/build quality:
Legendary Audi. Everything works as it should do with Germanic efficiency.
No problems of sagging leather as I steered clear of that minefield by going for the alcantara which adds that sporty/tactile feel to the interior.
Not to sure about the flat bottomed steering wheel though
Hard to get used to as hand placement is trickier in tight corners... jury is still out on it's true usefulness. Still looks dead cool though

Roof:
I think Audi stole this from Mazda. The Z fold roof is perfection, only now it's motorised in the Audi
Noise levels are surpressed very well with the interior lining, but it is still louder then the MINI. Could be down to the noisier exhaust though

Conculsion:
Postivies:
Great engine, good fuel economy, fantastic suspension set up
Downsides:
Looks far better roof down then up (sorry lads for disputing this before)

Do I miss my mazda?? A definate no. The TT is now the best car I've owned
Money well spent..... so far.....

That IS a really good review Martin

Quote: Originally Posted by Fabio (original)

keep an eye out here for the tts review

YouTube - DRIVERS REPUBLIC - Audi TTS First Drive (Preview)

I like the TTS, but won't be changing yet

Quote: Originally Posted by Pobsey (original)

Smashed the windscreen on the 1er yesterday, a bolt hit me on the M6

, new screen fitted tomorrow, saves me trying to get the dead bugs off it at the weekend

A bolt? Feck !

Quote: Originally Posted by mikeythemini (original)

Aiden - hows the S5?
HAd 2 in yesterday, 1 had recarros - NICE
Think these are a really good car. Will they do an RS5?

Its great, I'm loving it !

RS5 is coming, seems they still aren't saying what engine will power it !

I love the S5, I never tire of starting it, the V8 is

Its something we should all try before we die !

Quote: Originally Posted by northandy (original)

Even the 3.0TDI sounds nice

It does actually !

Quote: Originally Posted by Martin L (original)

I don't think that's due for a while...

Got to see out the current RS6, then it's the TTRS and then you "might" get an RS5.

I'm not liking Audis take on performance cars. They bring out mediocre S models and then make you wait ages for a full on RS model

TBH Audi are getting up their own ***** on this, like BMW they're way too expensive.
An RS6 is a similar price to an R8.... come on I'd know which I'd have....

Mediocre?

I dunno, I think the S5 is well, more than decent

Quote: Originally Posted by jimskater (original)

Back from the Dragon. Looks like a whole bunch of congrats & welcoje backs are due, all around.

I need specs & proper pictures, please.

Misc Photos Here:

Dragon Photos: Minis on the Dragon - a set on Flickr

North Carolina photos: Outer Banks - a set on Flickr

Link to pro site with a few of me driving the dragon (3 photos, click the < icon 2 times to see the other 2) PhotoReflect - MoonshinePhoto.Com

Looks like agood few days out Jim !

AidenL · May 9th, 2008, 08:10 AM

Quote: Originally Posted by ONED (original)

Bout Ye?

Don't leave it so long the next time!

oH......and Ger has got you a car organised for MTI - so no excuses!

No MTI for us Barry it seems

Denises hols are just very skimpy - think we need a break after 5 years in Kerry, will try to take in some other run later - Nicky and Derek are insisting we come back to their neck of the woods this year again too

ONED · May 9th, 2008, 12:03 PM

Quote: Originally Posted by Fabio (original)

i'm still about!!!

have a peep every now and again & still got the GP!!

dont think i can do MTI, dont even know when its on

12days 23 hrs!

MTI 2008

Quote: Originally Posted by AidenL (original)

No MTI for us Barry it seems

Denises hols are just very skimpy - think we need a break after 5 years in Kerry, will try to take in some other run later - Nicky and Derek are insisting we come back to their neck of the woods this year again too

Ah well!

your loss i suppose!

jimskater · May 10th, 2008, 03:32 PM

Quote: Originally Posted by jimskater (original)

Back from the Dragon. Looks like a whole bunch of congrats & welcoje backs are due, all around.

I need specs & proper pictures, please.

Misc Photos Here:

Dragon Photos: Minis on the Dragon - a set on Flickr

North Carolina photos: Outer Banks - a set on Flickr

Link to pro site with a few of me driving the dragon (3 photos, click the < icon 2 times to see the other 2) PhotoReflect - MoonshinePhoto.Com

I added 16 or so more photos to the Dragon photo set.

Washy · May 11th, 2008, 06:37 PM

As it is Sunday a progress picture of the house....from a different angle this time

Rakey · May 11th, 2008, 06:54 PM

looking goof Neil, when you moving in?

Didn't buy a classic today, but did see a couple of nice ones and had a good drive in them

Washy · May 11th, 2008, 06:56 PM

Quote: Originally Posted by Rakey (original)

looking goof Neil, when you moving in?

Didn't buy a classic today, but did see a couple of nice ones and had a good drive in them

Should be in by the middle of June...

Still think you might buy one? I might be tempted if I can find the right one....

Paul · May 11th, 2008, 06:58 PM

Quote: Originally Posted by Washy (original)

As it is Sunday a progress picture of the house....from a different angle this time

You do realise that the scaffold isn't there for photo opps?

Washy · May 11th, 2008, 07:06 PM

Quote: Originally Posted by Paul (original)

You do realise that the scaffold isn't there for photo opps?

Well have camera will travel....always did fancy myself a s a paperazzi

Rakey · May 11th, 2008, 07:10 PM

Quote: Originally Posted by Washy (original)

Should be in by the middle of June...

Still think you might buy one? I might be tempted if I can find the right one....

Thats pretty soon then

Bit like you, if I find the right one at the right price then I think I'll be buying one, not as fast as the GP but I was grinning from ear to ear this afternoon when I drove it

Washy · May 11th, 2008, 07:16 PM

Quote: Originally Posted by Rakey (original)

Thats pretty soon then

Bit like you, if I find the right one at the right price then I think I'll be buying one, not as fast as the GP but I was grinning from ear to ear this afternoon when I drove it

Really not about absolute performance though is it....nothing goes down the twisties like a classic mini..........

northandy · May 14th, 2008, 11:10 AM

Speaking of a Classic....

PistonHeads Headlines

Rakey · May 14th, 2008, 11:17 AM

Quote: Originally Posted by northandy (original)

Speaking of a Classic....

PistonHeads Headlines

thats a proper bit of history to own, very nice

Washy · May 14th, 2008, 11:21 AM

Quote: Originally Posted by northandy (original)

Speaking of a Classic....

PistonHeads Headlines

Very cool..

Martin L · May 14th, 2008, 11:27 AM

Quote: Originally Posted by northandy (original)

Speaking of a Classic....

PistonHeads Headlines

Very nice

I'd be in two minds whether to drive it as much as I could or mothball it

northandy · May 14th, 2008, 03:12 PM

Quote: Originally Posted by Rakey

View Poll Results: Forget what colour - Who's the maddest? Vote Now
Sham the car ho, who is lurking in the far north	183	3.66%
Washy who's still on course to set a record for most MINIs owned !	231	4.61%
Soggy who shacked up with Rakey, then thought better of it	242	4.83%
Aiden, who's taking lawn seating reservations for Rally Ireland 2007	174	3.48%
Cat Eating Rakey - he who spec's best at the pub	187	3.74%
ABG , who has Mod Mania ! and Porsche fever	149	2.98%
MartinL, MX-5 toting official beanie-type	136	2.72%
Mo who's binning his Works and going even more elitist with a Cooper S LE	107	2.14%
jimskater, who had to make a choice between a GP & MTI.... so he's doing both.	32	0.64%
puck, who's pullied, painted, and wants a new job !	185	3.70%
Shane, who's years too late.... and gone far, far away	2	0.04%
mad brummie, who's proving that it's easy being green	2014	40.23%
ONED, the diesel loving, Annie beating handyman !	198	3.96%
lavs, who needs to start Speccin' something soon	178	3.56%
pappillon , who looks very good in all black	232	4.63%
CooperID who wants some big stoppers !	139	2.78%
Wobert, who needs to do some last-minute Speccin.....	146	2.92%
Goonery, who is busy with very complicated recipies...	204	4.08%
Ruthie, who is constantly smiling whilst driving her Lippy Red S !	267	5.33%
Voters: 5006. You may not vote on this poll

May 9th, 2008, 08:06 AM	#76881
AidenL Nice TTs......... Join Date: Jan 2002 Location: On The Coast........ Local Time: 12:48 AM Posts: 46,188 Offline	Quote: Originally Posted by Martin L (original) Right guys had my TT almost a month now, it's run in and after a great days blast in the countryside yesterdays I think I've now got a more detailed opinion of the car Engine: What a peach - this is the smoothest, most accomplished turbo I've experienced. Torque is there right from 1200rpm and despite that there is still a surge of "turbo" boost when it cranks up more at around 3500rpm There's a nice thrumb to the engine, almost like a five-pot and this engine cackles and pops like the MINI. It's one loud MFer.... Tunnels or built up areas are a joy Only slight problem I've experienced is I feel it could do with more power for the motorway. The instantaneous acceleration isn't there, so you need to drop a few cogs before blasting off. I guess because it cruises at 70mph at around 2500rpm, which is low... Gearbox: Audi have got this spot on. It thinks like I think, it's uncanny. The most impressive part is as you approach corners, most autos will change up as you lift off. Not the TT, it drops a gear ready for you to punch out of the corner. It even does this in normal mode, not just sport. Sport mode is harsher then normal with changes even faster then you could imagine, but this does lead to jerkyness if kept in sport at slow speeds. A small price to pay as it blips the throttle on dwonshifts All this talent and yet it's concious enough to keep revs low and help maintain an incredible mpg. Ride/suspension/handling: This is the BEST attribute of the car. All car manufacturers need to have this period. It'll be very difficult for me to own another car without it. It is a huge step in car technology. The ride is soft and supple when not pushing hard, and then when corners come it transforms into a sharp handling sports car. Admittedly the "feel" of the MINI isn't there, which I wish they could improve upon, but there's enough there to give confidence so you can place the car correctly for corners. There is little hint of understeer with this car, better then the MINI I would say, however, it doesn't feel as nimble. It's a heavier and bigger car, so I wouldn't expect it to. You do have a feeling of waiting for the rear to come around, but I think it could be my driving style, as I'm still used to RWD so I haven't explored what the rear end can really do. I need to get into the mindset of point the front wheels in the right direction and plant the loud pedal and the rear will follow. Next time I'm out for a spirited drive I'll try and take that attitude Interior/build quality: Legendary Audi. Everything works as it should do with Germanic efficiency. No problems of sagging leather as I steered clear of that minefield by going for the alcantara which adds that sporty/tactile feel to the interior. Not to sure about the flat bottomed steering wheel though Hard to get used to as hand placement is trickier in tight corners... jury is still out on it's true usefulness. Still looks dead cool though Roof: I think Audi stole this from Mazda. The Z fold roof is perfection, only now it's motorised in the Audi Noise levels are surpressed very well with the interior lining, but it is still louder then the MINI. Could be down to the noisier exhaust though Conculsion: Postivies: Great engine, good fuel economy, fantastic suspension set up Downsides: Looks far better roof down then up (sorry lads for disputing this before) Do I miss my mazda?? A definate no. The TT is now the best car I've owned Money well spent..... so far..... That IS a really good review Martin Quote: Originally Posted by Fabio (original) keep an eye out here for the tts review YouTube - DRIVERS REPUBLIC - Audi TTS First Drive (Preview) I like the TTS, but won't be changing yet Quote: Originally Posted by Pobsey (original) Smashed the windscreen on the 1er yesterday, a bolt hit me on the M6, new screen fitted tomorrow, saves me trying to get the dead bugs off it at the weekend A bolt? Feck ! Quote: Originally Posted by mikeythemini (original) Aiden - hows the S5? HAd 2 in yesterday, 1 had recarros - NICE Think these are a really good car. Will they do an RS5? Its great, I'm loving it ! RS5 is coming, seems they still aren't saying what engine will power it ! I love the S5, I never tire of starting it, the V8 is Its something we should all try before we die ! Quote: Originally Posted by northandy (original) Even the 3.0TDI sounds nice It does actually ! Quote: Originally Posted by Martin L (original) I don't think that's due for a while... Got to see out the current RS6, then it's the TTRS and then you "might" get an RS5. I'm not liking Audis take on performance cars. They bring out mediocre S models and then make you wait ages for a full on RS model TBH Audi are getting up their own *** on this, like BMW they're way too expensive. An RS6 is a similar price to an R8.... come on I'd know which I'd have.... Mediocre? I dunno, I think the S5 is well, more than decent Quote: Originally Posted by jimskater (original) Back from the Dragon. Looks like a whole bunch of congrats & welcoje backs are due, all around. I need specs & proper pictures, please. Misc Photos Here: Dragon Photos: Minis on the Dragon - a set on Flickr North Carolina photos: Outer Banks - a set on Flickr Link to pro site with a few of me driving the dragon (3 photos, click the < icon 2 times to see the other 2) PhotoReflect - MoonshinePhoto.Com Looks like agood few days out Jim ! Global Moderator**

May 9th, 2008, 08:10 AM	#76882 (permalink)
AidenL Nice TTs......... Join Date: Jan 2002 Location: On The Coast........ Local Time: 12:48 AM Posts: 46,188 Offline	Quote: Originally Posted by ONED (original) Bout Ye? Don't leave it so long the next time! oH......and Ger has got you a car organised for MTI - so no excuses! No MTI for us Barry it seems Denises hols are just very skimpy - think we need a break after 5 years in Kerry, will try to take in some other run later - Nicky and Derek are insisting we come back to their neck of the woods this year again too *Global Moderator*

May 10th, 2008, 03:32 PM	#76884 (permalink)
jimskater Heading across the pond Join Date: May 2003 Location: San Diego Local Time: 04:48 PM Posts: 7,167 Offline	Quote: Originally Posted by jimskater (original) Back from the Dragon. Looks like a whole bunch of congrats & welcoje backs are due, all around. I need specs & proper pictures, please. Misc Photos Here: Dragon Photos: Minis on the Dragon - a set on Flickr North Carolina photos: Outer Banks - a set on Flickr Link to pro site with a few of me driving the dragon (3 photos, click the < icon 2 times to see the other 2) PhotoReflect - MoonshinePhoto.Com I added 16 or so more photos to the Dragon photo set. www.scmm.org GP 0101

May 11th, 2008, 06:37 PM	#76885 (permalink)
Washy 1151bhp/tonne Join Date: Jul 2001 Location: Northampton Local Time: 12:48 AM Posts: 18,960 Offline	As it is Sunday a progress picture of the house....from a different angle this time Attached Thumbnails Black to the future....

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May 9th, 2008, 12:03 PM	#76883 (permalink)
ONED SUCKIN DIESEL!!!! Join Date: Jun 2003 Location: Ballydung Manor ! Local Time: 12:48 AM Posts: 7,335 Offline	Quote: Originally Posted by Fabio (original) i'm still about!!! have a peep every now and again & still got the GP!! dont think i can do MTI, dont even know when its on 12days 23 hrs! MTI 2008 Quote: Originally Posted by AidenL (original) No MTI for us Barry it seems Denises hols are just very skimpy - think we need a break after 5 years in Kerry, will try to take in some other run later - Nicky and Derek are insisting we come back to their neck of the woods this year again too Ah well! your loss i suppose!

May 11th, 2008, 06:54 PM	#76886 (permalink)
Rakey all good things....... My Classifieds Join Date: Apr 2003 Location: The local Local Time: 12:48 AM Posts: 53,524 Offline	looking goof Neil, when you moving in? Didn't buy a classic today, but did see a couple of nice ones and had a good drive in them Food rule fanatic

May 11th, 2008, 06:56 PM	#76887 (permalink)
Washy 1151bhp/tonne Join Date: Jul 2001 Location: Northampton Local Time: 12:48 AM Posts: 18,960 Offline	Quote: Originally Posted by Rakey (original) looking goof Neil, when you moving in? Didn't buy a classic today, but did see a couple of nice ones and had a good drive in them Should be in by the middle of June... Still think you might buy one? I might be tempted if I can find the right one.... Black to the future....

May 11th, 2008, 06:58 PM	#76888 (permalink)
Paul Trained Monkey Join Date: Jan 2001 Location: Bedfordshire Local Time: 12:48 AM Posts: 46,127 Offline	Quote: Originally Posted by Washy (original) As it is Sunday a progress picture of the house....from a different angle this time You do realise that the scaffold isn't there for photo opps? Trained Monkeys - New Fiat 500

May 11th, 2008, 07:06 PM	#76889 (permalink)
Washy 1151bhp/tonne Join Date: Jul 2001 Location: Northampton Local Time: 12:48 AM Posts: 18,960 Offline	Quote: Originally Posted by Paul (original) You do realise that the scaffold isn't there for photo opps? Well have camera will travel....always did fancy myself a s a paperazzi Black to the future....

May 11th, 2008, 07:10 PM	#76890 (permalink)
Rakey all good things....... My Classifieds Join Date: Apr 2003 Location: The local Local Time: 12:48 AM Posts: 53,524 Offline	Quote: Originally Posted by Washy (original) Should be in by the middle of June... Still think you might buy one? I might be tempted if I can find the right one.... Thats pretty soon then Bit like you, if I find the right one at the right price then I think I'll be buying one, not as fast as the GP but I was grinning from ear to ear this afternoon when I drove it Food rule fanatic

May 11th, 2008, 07:16 PM	#76891 (permalink)
Washy 1151bhp/tonne Join Date: Jul 2001 Location: Northampton Local Time: 12:48 AM Posts: 18,960 Offline	Quote: Originally Posted by Rakey (original) Thats pretty soon then Bit like you, if I find the right one at the right price then I think I'll be buying one, not as fast as the GP but I was grinning from ear to ear this afternoon when I drove it Really not about absolute performance though is it....nothing goes down the twisties like a classic mini.......... Black to the future....

May 14th, 2008, 11:10 AM	#76892 (permalink)
northandy AWOL My Classifieds Join Date: Jan 2003 Local Time: 12:48 AM Posts: 14,621 Offline	Speaking of a Classic.... PistonHeads Headlines

May 14th, 2008, 11:17 AM	#76893 (permalink)
Rakey all good things....... My Classifieds Join Date: Apr 2003 Location: The local Local Time: 12:48 AM Posts: 53,524 Offline	Quote: Originally Posted by northandy (original) Speaking of a Classic.... PistonHeads Headlines thats a proper bit of history to own, very nice Food rule fanatic

May 14th, 2008, 11:21 AM	#76894 (permalink)
Washy 1151bhp/tonne Join Date: Jul 2001 Location: Northampton Local Time: 12:48 AM Posts: 18,960 Offline	Quote: Originally Posted by northandy (original) Speaking of a Classic.... PistonHeads Headlines Very cool.. Black to the future....

May 14th, 2008, 11:27 AM	#76895 (permalink)
Martin L MINI defector Join Date: Mar 2002 Location: Harefield Local Time: 12:48 AM Posts: 14,126 Offline	Quote: Originally Posted by northandy (original) Speaking of a Classic.... PistonHeads Headlines Very nice I'd be in two minds whether to drive it as much as I could or mothball it MINI, RX8 and MX5 - Done those............. It's now TTime Unofficial MINI2.com bean counter

May 14th, 2008, 03:12 PM	#76896 (permalink)
northandy AWOL My Classifieds Join Date: Jan 2003 Local Time: 12:48 AM Posts: 14,621 Offline	Quote: Originally Posted by Rakey