|
|
|
|
29/09/2008
By EWAN KENNEDY
|
|
|
The new MINI has been a success in most markets around the world, and that despite the doomsayers who said it would be a passing fad when it was launched here in 2002. There are two reasons for this, firstly the MINI (spelled in capital letters to differentiate it from the original Mini of the 1950s, ‘60s and ‘70s) can arguably be called a direct descendent of the old car. Unlike some other retro machines, the new VW Beetle and new Fiat 500 are the obvious examples, which are totally different to their forebears in mechanical makeup.
 Even more importantly, brilliant marketing of the MINI has seen it become a must-have fashion item among quite a large number of owners. To the extent that the MINI is customised to an amazing extent. It’s all but impossible to see two identical cars on the road, just about every one having something that no other has. Some of the prices paid are staggering, with the most expensive new MINI in Australia to date topping $100,000.
These are great little cars to drive, just the sort that will have keen drivers getting out of bed early of a Sunday morning to take it for a blast along their favourite piece of road. Just as they, or their fathers, did in the 1960s when the original incarnation of the Cooper S was the hottest small car on the road. Either that, or getting together with other MINI enthusiasts to go for a cruise to a cafe, beach location or anywhere else that takes their fancy at the time.
Two versions of the MINI are sold in Australia, that is the top two, as the lower cost model (called MINI One) isn’t imported here. The Cooper S is the hotshot, having its 1.6-litre engine supercharged in early formats – pre March 2007 and turbocharged from then onwards. We really like the supercharged engine, because its torque comes in virtually instantly, whereas the turbo unit inevitably has a slight lag before delivering its all. Best of all, the supercharged engine has a glorious shriek when you get stuck into it, the sort of sound that can make the hairs on the back of a keen driver’s neck stand on end.
 Externally, you can pick the Cooper S by the bonnet slot for the intercooler, its chromed side grille and fuel-filler cap, a small wing protruding from the rear of the roof, twin exhausts and larger (16-inch) alloy wheels.
Inside, there are sportier looking trim and carpet colours and designs. Sports seats have the option of full-leather or cloth/leather, the latter probably the better bet for hot Australian conditions. The steering wheel and gear lever knob are finished in leather and there are aluminium door sill plates carrying Mini Cooper S logos. All-in-all the effect is sporty, screaming out that this the sort of car that's aimed at fun ahead of everything else.
MINI cabriolet was launched late in 2004 and has a wonderful roof system. It can not only be used to make the MINI a fully closed car and an open convertible, but also as a closed car with an open sunroof, the latter can be opened and closed while on the move.
New MINI has steering that's almost kart-like in its response, in fact it’s almost too quick until you get the hang of it - then you really fall in love with it. The suspension grips brilliantly, and the big disc brakes stop the car so hard they almost give you a headache. As a small, sporting, dynamic package the MINI is close to perfect.
Of course, as in any car there are drawbacks. The ride is fairly harsh and may prove too much on some rough Aussie bush roads.
Topping out the MINI range is the Cooper S with the works – the John Cooper Works that is. The Cooper company specialises in improving Minis, both the originals and the new 21st century machines. Engine work on the new MINI is extensive and includes an Eaton supercharger in place of the Rootes unit fitted to the standard MINI Cooper S.
MINI is now full established in Australia. Being part of the BMW organisation gives it advantages in dealership location and technical backup. Naturally, almost all MINI dealers are in suburban areas, generally quite close to the city centre. Spare parts and servicing charges aren't unreasonable for a car in this class, meaning they are higher than for a typical small car, though not outrageously so.
While it’s possible to do some of your own routine servicing, we suggest you stick with the professionals for all but the most minor tasks.
Insurance costs are relatively high, even more so for the ‘charged’ engine, be they supercharged or turbocharged. If you are young and/or inexperienced, and have the further handicap of no off-street parking premiums will climb further. Shop around, but be sure to do direct comparisons.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR
Most new MINIs are treated like babies, being routinely serviced by the book. Check out the log books in detail and you will probably be happy to pay the extra asked for one of these pampered cars.
Some are driven hard, after all they cry out to be treated that way. But beware of a MINI that has undergone track days - look for things like roll cages, lowered suspension and additional instruments. Though all of these can be put back to standard prior to resale.
 Check for crash damage, or repairs to restore the car to its original condition. Mismatched paint colours from one panel to another are a good clue – do the inspection in strong light. Also look for ripples in the panels, most easily seen when viewed end on. Tiny drops of paint in unpainted areas like lights, windows and badges are another clue to a respray.
Look over the interior for signs of damage or advanced wear, though this is pretty rare in cars like these.
Make sure the engine starts easily and idles smoothly. Watch for a puff of smoke from the exhaust when it first kicks over, and again when it’s accelerated hard during your road test.
Make sure all gear changes are light, easy and quiet. The continuously variable transmission (CVT) fitted on early automatics has unusual sounds during its operation (engine sound, that is, the transmission should be quiet) if you haven’t driven one of these before it’s smart to call in an expert.
CAR BUYING TIP
Talk to car club members if you are looking to buy an enthusiasts’ machine. They are a great source of information – and may even know the history of the exact car you’re considering.
|
|
|
|
|
|
Print Article
Submit Feedback
Email This Article
