Car Talk-"MINIs can't handle winter!!"

[Wingnut]

I'm a week behind on this... vacation and driving thru storms have kept me busy.

I'm sure someone has mentioned already about what occured on the last Car Talk program. Basically Click and Clack stated that the MINI doesn't handle winter well. And while they suggested that the caller would be happy with a MINI, they should also invest in a winter car too.

Those of us who drive in winter conditions can attest to the MINI's great handling in all seasons. I myself just went through a nasty nor'easter in the mountains of Vermont with bald tires without an accident (I saw many cars off the road as well, and a few I will never forgot...) I've also related a story or two about how amazing the MINI is to drive with good tires on in the winter.

So here's the deal. Lets unleash an email jihad on Tom and Ray (you know they'd get a kick out of it) and see if we can get an on air apology to MINIs everywhere (especially in the snowy locations).

Here's the link to their email box at their website:
http://www.cartalk.com/email/email.html

Go get em!

[indimini]

I just replied to the boys in Boston. Sounds like they were chumps on this issue who wer stumped before they knew what they were talking about.

[FrenchCori]

I'm graduating from 4X4's to my new Mini next month.
(Being buillt next week.) And frankly winter handling is a concern of mine.
I'm getting DSC and my Blizaks are waiting patiently in the yard.
So, what do I need to know to get by once the snow flies?
French Cori

[pezboy]

DSC will help in snow going around corners, and the Blizzaks are what you need for traction. I'd say you're already ahead of the game...just take the MINI to an empty place with a few inches of fresh snow on the ground and have fun.

[Wingnut]

Quote: Originally Posted by FrenchCori

I'm graduating from 4X4's to my new Mini next month.
(Being buillt next week.) And frankly winter handling is a concern of mine.
I'm getting DSC and my Blizaks are waiting patiently in the yard.
So, what do I need to know to get by once the snow flies?
French Cori

You're all set then! The Blizzaks hold big time. Once you play around a bit in the snow you'll feel very confident... just remember you still only have about 6 inches of clearance, but I've yet to have this be an issue. I live at the base of the Tug Hill Plateau and travel into the Adirondacks almost weekly all year long. Never have had a problem.

[jwardell]

Do you know what time they tape their show? Oh it's call in so I guess it's live...but then again I don't even know when it's on.

I'd be more than happy to wait till it is snowing and they are taping, then blow circles around their building in Harvard Sq. blasting the horn while someone called them on their mistake.

[yellowmininy]

Oh, wow, that is a great idea! It airs on Sat & Sun mornings, can't remember the times but it's between 9-11 AM (maybe 10 on Sat, 11 on Sunday where I am). 'Snow donuts' in Hahvahd Yahd. Would be another great Maxamini tribute run.

[jwardell]

It wouldn't be hard, there is a natural road circle around that building. I'm sure they would notice us.

[rfinprc]

Letter sent.

I don't think the show is live call-in anymore. I think they might tape the show on Wednesdays, and not from the Harvard Square office. If we want to have a group razzing session, the way to do it is to show up at the Good News Garage at 75 Hamilton St. in Cambridge. One of them actually works there.

We could tie up Hamilton St. with about 5 MINIs no problem.

[BartMack]

so I sent this:

"Hey Tom & Ray I always enjoy your show, but now I hear thru the grapevine that you guys say the MINI is no good in winter!

It' not true.

That was a rumor started by people in southern California (and other fair weather states) to try and gain control of the sales allocations from northern dealerships!
(seems they are upset at the long waiting lists)

So if someone from LA or Miami tells you something like window defrosters on a MINI require an aftermarket installation, don't believe them!"

[MetalMiniMayhem]

classic! I like it! I think that's the best reply ever!

[yellowmininy]

Oh man, I hope they read that on the air!

[jwardell]

Does anyone know which section they made the comment in? You can listen to it here:
http://www.cartalk.com/Radio/Show/online.html

[Wingnut]

It's the show prior to that one. I believe the caller was from Saratoga Springs even, but can't remember for sure...

[GadgetGav]

That link only goes to the most recent show. I've got them recorded - if you can remember what date is was, I'll try to get the clip and post it somewhere. Are we looking at Oct 15th or 22nd..?