Mini Cooper – Page 3 – Automobiles Review

MINI goes camping with MINI Cowley Caravan and MINI Swindon Roof Top Tent

MINI brand is announcing the arrival of very special modifications of the emblematic vehicle, which are perfectly suitable for camping: a sumptuously appointed caravan with two sleeping bays and a roof top tent (also designed for two) in the classic John Cooper Works color scheme.

After the debut of the MINI Clubvan Concept at Geneva Motor Show, now it is time to be offered a very MINI holiday experience as well.

First, the MINI Cowley caravan offers everything that one needs to pitch camp in comfort: two welcoming sleeping berths, a twin gas-stove, a water tank with pump and dish module to charge the on connection to supply the refrigerator, TV/DVD and hi-fi stereo system.

The silhouette of the MINI Cowley model brings to mind the sweeping circular curves of the door trim inside a MINI. Plus, both side doors have sliding windows, and this reminds of how things were back in 1969.

The trailer is only twelve centimetres than MINI Clubman mirror to mirror and weighs just less than 300 kilograms (661 lb). Indeed, with its outstanding agility and fleetness of foot, there’s no danger of the hallmark MINI driving fun being left behind over long journeys.

And if there isn’t any chance for trailer coupling, such as the models of John Cooper Works, then the MINI Swindon roof might be a preferable solution. The tent can be fitted comfortably and with no effort to the roof of a MINI, MINI Clubman or MINI Countryman. The tent also offers a sleeping space for two persons and basically relieves one from the stress to constantly look for accommodation.

MINI Cowley Caravan and MINI Swindon Roof Top Tent

In addition, the roof-top tent works a treat. What is very comfortable here is that the sleeping position is elevated and will keep any passing-by animals away from the tent.

The design of the roof-top tent box allows it to blend in seamlessly with the MINI when closed. Its lower shell is painted Midnight Black, the upper opening section in Chili Red, which is a combination previously reserved for John Cooper Works models.

Source: MINI

April 2, 2012

History on Wheels: MINI (Part 2)

When the first ever MINI went out on the market on 26^th of August, no one expected its future success. There is even no clue how many different variations were to follow the original MINI. For five years since its production, MINI made a great success Till 1964 the car underwent through different modifications and had been transformed in many versions (for example an estate version, a pick-up on or a van version). In 1961 Issigonis’ friend John Cooper, who was the owner of the Cooper Car Company saw a big and special potential for the MINI. Since he was an expert in designing and building Formula One and rally cars, he was drawn immediately to MINI’s racing potential. And this is how the famous MINI Cooper appeared. The first ever Austin Mini Cooper and Morris Mini Cooper made their world first appearances in 1961. The standard 848cc engine which delivered 34bhp (25 kW) was now replaced by 997cc engine putting out there the 55bhp (41 kW). In addition, the car featured a racing-tuned engine, twin SU carburetors, a closer-ratio gearbox. More importantly, it also included for the first time front disc brakes, uncommon at the time in a small car. Later in 1964, its engine was replaced by a shorter stroke 998, which delivered a top speed close to 100 mph. Then the model MINI Cooper S came about and captured many cars as being an outstanding rally car. In details, the “S” model won the Monte Carlo Rally three times. Later, in 1964, this version was equipped with new 1275cc version of the A-series engine. All other MINIs were produced with the same 998cc engine. In this year debuted the MINI Moke model, which was very simple and lightweight vehicle, and was originally intended for military applications. Also in 1964 in the production of the MINIs were featured the interconnected Hydrolastic gas/fluid suspension system.

Mark II MINI was born in 1967 when it was introduced for the first time. The transformed new version featured small face lift, new radiator grilles, bigger rear windows, and other cosmetic changes. More importantly, the standard models now got the 998cc engine instead of the 848cc one. And this is when the MINI became famous for its name. The Austin and Morris names were replaced by the name MINI, which now became established as a brand in its own right. Enhancements included wind down windows replacing the original sliding door windows, and new concealed door hinges. The exterior now featured different front end design, and also was introduced for the first time the new 1275 GT model. The first million production vehicle came out of the factory in 1965 and the second million – in 1969.

In 1969 Mark III MINI appeared on the marked. It got modified bodyshell, larger doors with concealed hinges, winding windows, rubber cones suspension. Ten years later and the MINI got enormous attention and already made a world-wide success. However, it got new rivals in the face of for instance Ford Fiesta, Fiat 127, Volkswagen Polo or Peugeot 104. Mark IV MINI debuted in 1976 and had new front rubber mounted subframe with single tower bolts, the rear frame had some larger bushes, the twin stalk indicators were introduced with larger foot pedals, the rear indicator lamps had the reverse lights incorporated in them. Nonetheless, by the beginning of the 80’s the Mini was beginning to fall out of favor in many export markets.1981 was the last year for the brand to be in the ten of Britain’s top selling cars. Mark V MINI was born in 1984 and it now featured a 8.4-inch (210 mm) brake discs and plastic wheel arches, although it retained the same Mark IV body shell shape. The production of Mark V lasted till 1990, when the Mark VI MINI Version appeared. In it, the engine mounting points were moved forward to take 1275 cc power units. Moreover, it featured HIF carb version, plus the single point fuel injection. Its production lasted six years and in the beginning of 1996 the Mark VII MINI was launched. This was the final version of the famous car. It included twin point injection with front mounted radiator, full-width, internal bonnet release, and for the first time – an airbag on driver’s side.

During the 80’s the MINI received many “special editions” which made it a real fashion icon. This aspect of the car got a lot of attention from other companies, especially a particular one – BMW. The latter bought later the remnants of BMC and took control of it. BMW retained the Mini name and the planned new model. And later in 2000 the range of the MINI models consisted now of four versions: MINI Classic Seven, MINI Classic Cooper, MINI Classic Cooper Sport, MINI Knightsbridge. The new BMW MINI has technically nothing to do with the old car. However, it has the same classical transverse 4-cylinder, front-wheel-drive and the iconic appearance of the original model. The new MINI is larger than the original one: 58 cm (23 in) longer, 50 cm (20 in) wider, 7 cm (2.8 in) higher. It has a total weight of 1,144 kg (2,522 lb). In addition, it is now being classified as compact car rather than city car.

By this date there are a lot of new versions, which the BMW produces. One of them is the absolutely new 2012 MINI Roadster which is the first open-top two seater model in MINI history! In addition, the car has a 240-litre boot which offers versatility of loading options. The model variants got the whole 211 hp (157 kW, which requires just 4.5 litres of fuel per 100 km (62.77 mpg imp)! Other new models are 2012 MINI Baker Street and 2012 MINI Bayswater, which have a lot of innovative technologies featured, but also are retaining the excellent stance of the classical MINI. Both cars feature expressive design highlights and nice equipment. The MINI Baker Street embodies the youthful, fresh and innovative trend-setting style of the brand, while the MINI Bayswater focuses primarily on the sporting verve and agile handling for which MINI is renowned. And this is how the iconic vehicle continues writing the history of the automotive world.

February 19, 2012

HISTORY ON WHEELS: MINI (Part 1)

Another iconic car which deserves a thorough examination is the legendary MINI. This vehicle, since day one till now, is absolutely groundbreaking subcompact coupe. It was born in the United Kingdom and achieved astonishing success around the world. The reasons for this are numerous, but it gained popularity mostly because its affordable price, compact exterior dimensions with surprisingly amount of interior space, and at last, but not least – because its unique design bringing the British style to life. With this car every customer experiences the true fun of exciting driving, and moreover he or she could easily park it literally anywhere. But let’s see where it all began.

The Beginning – creation of a masterpiece

The creator of the MINI is Sir Alec Issigonis who undoubtedly was a genius. One beautiful day he had this great idea for cheep, small and fuel-efficient car, which in addition had a safe handling. Issigonis had the ability to visualize the whole process, starting from draft … literally! He first drafted the simple lines of the future MINI on a restaurant table cloth and everything else later fell into place. It is interesting that the car was entirely his work, because he had this unique ability of visualizing the whole process of creation. He had a vision, which later became manifestation of success. Another interesting fact is that his sketches were used for the initial assembly of the first models of the car. Who does this nowadays?

Sir Alec Issigonis and MARK I MINI (1959)

Issigonis with his design fellows continued the work on the vision of making the smallest car on the market. His goal was provocative too, because not only had it to be a real mini car, but also it got to accommodate four adults and some luggage. First he started by figuring out the basic dimensions this car. His design requirements were the car to be contained within a box that measured 10×4×4 ft (3×1.2×1.2 m). Moreover, the passenger accommodation should occupy 6 ft (1.8 m) of the 10 ft (3 m) length. Then on the verge came the question about the engine which is going to fit these sizes. In addition, it had to be an existing one. Before leaving Morris in 1952, Issigonis has created and built the Morris Minor, which was a front-wheel drive with transverse engine. This was the perfect idea to be featured in the new prototype. More importantly, the engine was mounted thank to the idea of putting the gearbox in the sump of the engine. This resulted in terms of saving more space. In addition, the tiny 10 inch wheels. The suspension system, designed by Issigonis’s friend Dr. Alex Moulton at Moulton Developments Limited, used compact rubber cones instead of conventional springs. This also resulted in space-saving. In addition, it included rising progressive-rate springing of the cones, and provided some natural damping. The prototype was built into the subframes. Moreover, the rubber cone system gave a raw and bumpy ride. The seats were with woven-webbing. However, but the rigidity of the rubber cones combined with the wheels being pushed out to the corners of the car, gave the vehicle kart-like handling. Little did they know back then that this handling will become famous. And eventually in October 1957 was born the first prototype, which carried the name “The Orange Box” due to its colour.

And there it was, on 26^th of August 1959 the modern MINI as born. Actually this is the exact date, when BMC (British Motor Corporation) launched the MINI. The production version of the Mini was shown to the press earlier in April. The iconic now name MINI, wasn’t put on the first vehicle produced. The first models carried the name Austin Seven (sometimes written as SE7EN) and the name Morris Mini-Minor. However, they later became famous under the name MARK I MINI. The modles were characterised by its sliding windows, external door hinges and “moustache” grille. In the United Kingdom the Mark I was produced between 1959 and 1967, with production in Australia continuing until 1970. Furthermore it developed a top speed of 72.4 mph (116.5 km/h) and could accelerate from 0–60 mph (97 km/h) in 27.1 seconds. The fuel consumption was at that time really impressive and unmatchable in numbers: Mark I MINI had 43.5 miles per imperial gallon (6.49 L/100 km; 36.2 mpg). In addition to all these technological advantages, the price of the car cost only £537.

Austin Seven and Morris Mini Minor (1959)

February 18, 2012

2012 MINI Roadster US Price – $24 350

MINI has announced the US price list for the Roadster model, which starts at just $24 350 for the entry level and rising all the way up to $27 350 for the top-of-range Cooper S Roadster. The prices exclude destination tax.

2012 MINI Roadster is powered by a 1.6 liter four-cylinder petrol with VALVETRONIC delivering 122PS (90kW) at 6000RPM and 160Nm (118 lb-ft) at 4250RPM. From 0 to 100 km/h in 9.2 seconds and a top speed of 199 km/h (124 mph). It is pretty decent performance for cheap roadster with small engine. Furthermore, it returns 49.6 mpg (5.7 liters per 100 km) and 133 g/km of CO2.

The top-of-range Cooper S Roadster has a 1.6 liter turbocharged petrol with 211PS (150 kW) at 6000RPM and 260Nm (192 lb-ft) at just 1850RPM. From 0 to 100 km/h in 6.5 seconds and a top speed of 237 km/h. With this engine, the open-top MINI becomes a real sports vehicle. The average fuel consumption is 7.3 liters per 100 km (38.7 mpg) and 169 g/km of CO2.

Specifications:

MINI John Cooper Works Roadster:

Four-cylinder petrol engine with MINI TwinPower Turbo technology and numerous technological details carried over directly from motor sport.
Displacement: 1,598 cc, output: 155 kW/211 hp at 6,000 rpm,
max. torque: 260 Nm/192 lb-ft at 1,850 – 5,600 rpm (280 Nm/207 lb-ft with Overboost at 2,000 – 5,100 rpm). Acceleration 0–100 km/h (62 mph): 6.5 seconds, top speed: 237 km/h (147 mph). Average fuel consumption according to EU: 7.3 litres/100 kilometres (38.7 mpg imp), CO2 emissions: 169 g/km.

MINI Cooper S Roadster:

Four-cylinder petrol engine with
MINI TwinPower Turbo technology. Displacement: 1,598 cc,
output: 135 kW/184 hp at 5,500 rpm, max. torque: 240 Nm/177 lb-ft at 1,600 – 5,000 rpm (260 Nm/192 lb-ft with Overboost at 1,730 – 4,500 rpm). Acceleration 0–100 km/h (62 mph): 7.0 seconds,
top speed: 227 km/h (141 mph). Average fuel consumption according to EU: 6.0 litres/100 kilometres (47.1 mpg imp), CO2 emissions: 139 g/km.

MINI Cooper Roadster:

Four-cylinder petrol engine with fully variable valve management based on the BMW Group’s VALVETRONIC technology. Displacement: 1,598 cc, output: 90 kW/122 hp at 6,000 rpm, max. torque: 160 Nm/118 lb-ft at 4,250 rpm. Acceleration 0–100 km/h (62 mph): 9.2 seconds, top speed: 199 km/h (124 mph). Average fuel consumption according to EU: 5.7 litres/100 kilometres (49.6 mpg imp),
CO2 emissions: 133 g/km.

MINI Cooper SD Roadster:

Four-cylinder turbodiesel with MINI TwinPower Turbo technology. Displacement: 1,995 cc, output: 105 kW/143 hp at 4,000 rpm, max. torque: 305 Nm/225 lb-ft at 1,750 – 2,700 rpm. Acceleration 0–100 km/h (62 mph): 8.1 seconds,
top speed: 212 km/h (132 mph). Average fuel consumption according to EU: 4.5 litres/100 kilometres (62.8 mpg imp), CO2 emissions: 118 g/km.

Exterior dimensions:

Length: 3,734 millimetres (MINI Cooper Roadster: 3,728 millimetres, MINI John Cooper Works Roadster: 3,758 millimetres)
Width: 1,683 millimetres
Height: 1,390 millimetres (MINI Cooper Roadster: 1,384 millimetres, MINI John Cooper Works Roadster: 1,391 millimetres)
Wheelbase: 2,467 millimetres

Source: MINI

January 28, 2012

MINI Baker Street and Bayswater

Two new interesting models from MINI – Baker Street and Bayswater will hit the market in spring 2012. Both cars feature expressive design highlights and nice equipment.

The MINI Baker Street embodies the youthful, fresh and innovative trend-setting style of the brand, while the MINI Bayswater focuses primarily on the sporting verve and agile handling for which MINI is renowned.

The MINI Baker Street is available in MINI One, MINI Cooper, MINI One D and MINI Cooper D guise, while the MINI Bayswater is available as a MINI Cooper, MINI Cooper S, MINI Cooper D and MINI Cooper SD.

The Bayswater model features Kite Blue metallic exterior paintwork, 17” light-alloy Sandblast wheels with high-gloss black surfaces and bright machined rim and spoke edges. There are also black contrasting roof and the likewise newly created Sport Stripes for the bonnet.

“Bayswater” lettering adorns the side indicator surrounds, door sills and seat tags. The Punch Leather seats come in the exclusive colour variant Rocklite Anthracite and include side bolsters sporting a metallic sheen and blue and grey contrast stitching. Two-tone contrast stitching also adorns the gearshift/selector lever and handbrake gaiters.

Other innovative design features in the interior include Piano Black cockpit trim strips, which continue the path set by the Sport Stripes over the bonnet, and the leather Colour Line elements in Rocklite Anthracite, whose classy character is emphasised by black stitching. The same leather variant is also used for the armrests, while the model-specific floor mats have anthracite-coloured edging and blue contrast stitching.

The MINI Bayswater also comes with stainless steel pedals and the Chrome Line Interior package, and includes the Pepper Pack in its range of equipment. Plus, the new special edition can likewise be specified with a wide variety of items from the optional equipment list if further individual touches are desired.

You can order Bayswater with Cooper – 122PS, Cooper S – 184PS, Cooper D – 112PS and Cooper SD – 143PS. The special-edition model is also delivered with a 6-speed manual gearbox as standard, while a 6-speed automatic features in the options range.

The Baker Street boasts Rooftop Grey metallic exterior paint combined with special bonnet stripes. It rides on 16” 6-Star twin-spoke alloys finished in high-gloss black matching the black mirror caps.

In the interior a fresh interpretation of the cloth/leather seats available for the standard MINI teams up with exclusive interior surfaces to create an unmistakable ambience. In traditional British style, the surfaces of the new seat variant in Cross Check Rooftop Grey light feature a diamond pattern. Light grey contrast stitching for the floor mats, gearshift/selector lever as well as the handbrake gaiters and seat tags which, like the door sills, bear “Baker Street” lettering, round off the array of bespoke interior features. The Chrome Line Interior package adds further lustre.

The Baker Street also includes the Pepper Pack, which brings with it air conditioning, an on-board computer, a leather steering wheel, the Chrome Line Exterior package, front foglamps, a lighting package and height adjustment for the front passenger seat.

It is offered with four engine variants – One with 98PS, Cooper with 122PS, One D with 90PS and Cooper D with 112PS. All the engines are mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox as standard or an optional 6-speed automatic.

Source: MINI

January 19, 2012

Short preview on next weeks North American International Auto Show

Everything about this year’s North American International Auto Show will spin around small vehicles. As the population grows big and hence the customers of vehicles too, there is obviously the tendency of making more downsized automobiles. The North American International Auto Show will take place next week in Detroit. In addition, there will also be a premiere of the automotive world’s most eagerly anticipated new vehicle. The North American International Auto Show in Detroit next week will also be full of luxury and innovation. Another important highlight is that there will be a huge “invasion” of hybrid vehicles as automakers compete to boost fuel economy. The North American International Auto Show 2012 is undeniably where the global automotive community comes together to catch up on the latest news and events.

In short this is what we are going to see just in few days:

Strongly anticipated at this Auto Show is the Acura brand. First, there will be presented a brand new concept called Acura NSX. This is a high-performance hybrid with a V-6 engine mated to a lithium ion battery pack. It will be developed and expected on the market in three years. Speaking about the immediate future there is the 2012 and 2013 Acura ILX Sedan, and also the redesigned 2013 RDX Compact Crossover, which will be powered by a V-6 replacing a turbocharged four-cylinder engine.From Audi we expect to see a refreshed model of a small sporty sedan and a crossover concept. The next brand with a downsized automobile is Buick, which will reveal a new small crossover, called 2013 Buick Encore. From Cadillac we expect the ATS Sedan, which, as promised will be launched in the second half of this year. Chevrolet will present a sporty RS modification of the Sonic Subcompact with a new front image and grille, and a six-speed manual included. In addition we are going to see two concept vehicles from Chevrolet. Dodge will thrill us with the new 2013 Dodge Dart with a lot of powertrain options and Dodge Charger styling cues. The Dart will be at dealerships in the first half of this year. Ford brand will present at the NAIAS its renewed version of 2013 Fusion which now is with smoother lines, has an engines with direct injection and turbochargers, and a hybrid. Honda will redesign its Accord model in the middle of the year and will also show a new Accord Coupe Concept. This will be a great show for the brand Hyundai which will unveil the turbocharged four-cylinder Veloster. Another preview will be made with a 2013 Hyundai Genesis Coupe which has now a new grille and front fascia and a brand new interior. From Lexus we expect to see the LF-LC Coupe Concept and we also expect to get the answer whether this vehicle will be hybrid or not. Lincoln will appear with a concept of the new generation MKZ Sedan. A lot of success is going to be expected again from the brand Mercedes-Benz. First of all there will be a presentation of the redesigned 2013 Mercedes SL Roadster, which is now longer and lighter than the previous model and has a new all-aluminum body. In addition the SL550 will be powered by a new 4.6-liter direct-injection V-8. Furthermore the luxury brand will present two E-Class Hybrids: the E400 Hybrid Sedan and the E300 BlueTec Hybrid. We can’t continue without mentioning the MINI brand which will “show-off” with their 2012 Roadster which will be in dealerships in February. Nissan Pathfinder Concept will be previewed by Nissan which will also show an electric version of the NV200. The luxury of Porsche will be presented by the 911 Carrera and Carrera S models which will go on sale in few months. Scion is a Toyota sub-brand which will show a new model of FR-S Coupe. The smallest of all small cars – Smart, will exhibit a two-seat electric pickup concept called the Smart For-Us. The Toyota brand of course will compete with a plug-in hybrid concept called the NS4. In addition it will also show the production version of the 2012 Prius C Hatchback. Another European car – Volkswagen will preview a hybrid, called 2013 Jetta Hybrid. And at last the Swedish brand Volvo has prepared for us a surprise with a new Hybrid concept will be firstly revealed at the North American International Auto Show.

To sum up, at the NAIAS we expect to see these production vehicles: 2012/2013 Acura ILX sedan, 2013 Acura RDX Crossover, 2013 Buick Encore Crossover, 2013 Cadillac ATS Sedan, 2013 Dodge Dart Compact, 2013 Ford Fusion, 2013 Mercedes SL Roadster, 2013 Mercedes E-Class Hybrids, 2012 Mini Roadster, 2012 Toyota Prius C Hatchback; and these Concepts: Acura NSX, Audi crossover, Honda Accord Coupe, Lexus LF-LC Coupe, Lincoln MKZ Sedan, Nissan Pathfinder, Scion FR-S Coupe, Smart For-Us Pickup, Toyota NS4 Hybrid, Volvo hybrid. All this makes us eager to expect what will happen next week! Stay tuned!

January 4, 2012

2012 AC Schnitzer MINI Cooper Coupé

What would make a MINI Cooper Coupé more sporting? The correct answer is – tuning experts from AC Schnitzer. Yes, they are working with the aim to deliver some impressive tuning highlights for the two-seater vehicle.

First of all there are some performance upgrades included. The modifications for the MINI Cooper SD Coupé and S Coupé are currently in development and planning respectively. More importantly is that there is already guaranteed a balanced handling on the exit from tight corners thank to the AC Schnitzer limited slip differential with locking up to 75%.

Moreover the perfect dynamic driving experience is improved by the acoustic qualities of the AC Schnitzer sports rear silencer of stainless steel with chromed Racing tailpipe trim. In addition the AC Schnitzer sports exhaust system balances the complete exhaust system to the demands of higher power and tuned engines. And to make the driving even more exciting there is also featured the AC Schnitzer high performance brake system. It includes 4-piston fixed caliper brakes (left/right) with slotted discs (left/right), the set of brake pads, caliper holder and steel flexible brake lines. In order to give the MINI Cooper Coupé high performance “movement gear“, the experts from AC Schnitzer have included a height-adjustable racing suspension (or the AC Schnitzer suspension spring kit), an aluminium strut brace and special antiroll bar for the rear axle.

Of course AC Schnitzer hasn’t forgotten how important the outer look is for the MINI. Hence, there is an AC Schnitzer decor set available in various designs, together with the rear “Technology & Design“sticker. Not forgetting the interior too, the MINI Cooper Coupé by AC Schnitzer can be enhanced by the AC Schnitzer gear knob with digital gear display, aluminium pedal set, foot rests, “Black Line” handbrake handle and velours foot mats. Furthermore a sporting stance on the road is provided by the AC Schnitzer Mi2 BiColor wheels in 18 inch or the Mi 1 silver wheels in 17 inch with corresponding tyres. At last this sporting car features the impressive chromed AC Schnitzer exhaust trim, which makes the final touch to the overall look of the MINI.

Source: AC Schnitzer

January 4, 2012

2011 TOP 5 Tunings of Small Cars

We have seen this year some incredible tunings which have left a big impression in our mind. However, some of the greatest tunings were made on … the tiniest car segment. In this top 5 are presented some of the most remarkable tunings made on small cars such as Smart for two and Volkswagen Beetle. The selection is based on the overall outlook of the car, i.e. the tuned exterior, the improvements made to enhance its performance, and of course – on the interior.

SMART FORTWO DISCO BALL

Number five in our chart is for this incredible tuning of the Smart ForTwo electric vehicle. The car was transformed into a disco ball and it draws the immediate attention and admiration of the viewer. The show car is completely covered in reflective glass tiles from the roof to the tires. Of course the tuning wasn’t made purposeless, but the Smart was used in the art film Pixel City. The whole idea came from the experimental band Apparatjik. We should admit that it sounds and looks more than interesting. However, there was no tuning concerning the interior or the power of the car. For this reason we award this cute little fellow with the last place.

Smart ForTwo Disco Ball

Exterior:	[rating:6/6]
Interior:	[rating:1/6]
Performance:	[rating:1/6]

ABT VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE

This place goes for ABT’s Beetle. The power of this car is boosted up to 240PS (176 kW). And the styling package consists of a new front bumper, a rear diffuser with oval exhaust pipes and a pair of side skirts. In addition there are also headlight brows and some nice graphics.

There’s nothing done in the interior and for this reason the tuning gets the number 4 in the chart.

ABT Volkswagen Beetle

Exterior:	[rating:4/6]
Interior:	[rating:2/6]
Performance:	[rating:4/6]

VILNER SMART FOTTWO SQUARE STYLE

Here we have another Smart ForTwo. However this version of the car was completely transformed both inside and outside by the Vilner Tuning Company. Vilner used orange foil with patterns of stitching for the exterior with full chrome panles and orange soft for the alloy wheels, mirrors and other details. The interior boasts new two-tone leather upholstery, new trim for the dashboard, roof and door panels. In addition ForTwo also received special floor mats. Having all this in mind, undeniably the Vilner Smart ForTwo is a real eye-catcher!

Vilner Smart FotTwo Square Style

Exterior:	[rating:5/6]
Interior:	[rating:6/6]
Performance:	[rating:1/6]

ROMEO FERRARIS CINQUONE STRADALE

The second place goes to the version of Romeo Ferraris Abarth 500 Cinquone Stradale race car. The small vehicle has the same exterior as the race car, which includes an aerodynamics package consisting of new bonnet with two air scoops for engine cooling, new front bumper with a big central air intake, integrated wide body fenders and skirts and finally a new rear bumper with central exhaust tips. The power is enhanced up to 300PS (220 kW), which is just 60PS (44 kW) less than the race car. The interior boosts are a complete roll bar, and a lot of carbon fiber as well as carbon race seats with OMP 4-point seatbelts.

Romeo Ferraris Cinquone Stradale

Exterior:	[rating:3/6]
Interior:	[rating:4/6]
Performance:	[rating:6/6]

COVEREFX MINI COOPER WORKS

This astonishing and at the same time extremely different conversion of Mini Cooper Works was made by CoverEFX, the well known Germany-based tuner. The upgrades here are in both performance and styling. At first sight this adorable Mini Cooper Works immediately draws the attention. The exterior here consists of fully foil-finished body in black leather style. Moreover, as you can see, there are added thousands of hand glued small gold elements. The “Mini” is backed by sleek 17-inch OZ LM Wave lightweight alloys in the same black/gold style fitted with Toyo R888 84W tires in the dimensions 205/40 R17. The tuners have also modified the performance of the car which boosts the power to to 252 horsepower and 382 Nm

In the terms of power, CoverEFX is offering two stages of performance boosting for the MINI Cooper Works: Stage 1 features an ECU remap to 252 horsepower (185 kW) and 350 Nm (258 lb-ft.). In addition there is mounted a 2.5-inch exhaust unit with Milltek downpipe, sports catalyst and extra large sports air filter.

Unfortunately there is nothing done to improve the interior. Nonetheless the CoverEFX MINI stands out as a true masterpiece, with own individuality and impact, and this is the reason it wins the first place in our chart.

Stay tuned for next weeks 2011 TOP 10 Tunings!

CoverEFX MINI Cooper Works

Exterior:	[rating:6/6]
Interior:	[rating:3/6]
Performance:	[rating:5/6]

December 22, 2011

MINI To Unveil Roadster On NAIAS

The annual North American International Auto Show is an event of unparalleled importance. Set to be open to the public on the 14^th of January 2012, it will act as the New Year’s Day for the automotive industry. More than 150 companies will showcase their products, innovations and plans for the whole year ahead. 5000 media representatives will provide extensive coverage while around 750 000 members of the public will have the pleasure to moon about amidst lush automotive pieces of art.

And now MINI has announced that on that event, they will try to fascinate the American public with the new MINI Cooper Roadster – a car that relies on a complex chassis technology to stay on the road and yet implements a classic, manually operated soft-top all in the name of pure fun. Although it is the sixth addition to the company’s line up it still bares the MINI hallmark universal features such as large circular headlights, hexagonal radiator grille, side indicator surrounds and vertically stacked rear lights. That of course does not make it a characterless clone of the previous ones. The low-slung silhouette, smooth curves and elegantly extended (separate from the cabin) boot give this urban 2-seater a fresh and playful image.

In terms of dimensions, the basic Roadster model largely mimics its MINI Convertible counterpart with an exterior length of 3,728 mm (wheelbase of 2,467 mm) and a width which stands at 1,683 mm. It is however lower than the Convertible by more than 20 mm thus the fore mentioned low-slung sporty silhouette.

In the US three engine line-ups will be available that go in three different trim levels of the Roadster:

The standard MINI Roadster has a 121 hp, 1.6 litre engine with a fully variable valve control system – based on the VALVETRONIC technology which can be seen in BMW engines.

The MINI Cooper S Roadster houses again the VALVETRONIC 1.6 litre engine but thanks to BMW’s TwinPower Turbo technology and direct fuel injection the power is now up to 181 hp. The Cooper S is claimed to be one of the most successful embodiment of power and economy with just 6.0 litres of petrol consumption on a 100km run.

The top of the range MINI John Cooper Works Roadster is powered by a hardcore version of the 1.6 TwinPower Turbo found in the MINI Cooper S. It is a 208 hp hornet that delivers 192 lb-ft (260 Newton metres) of torque at 1,850 rpm. You’ll need no more than 6.3 seconds to reach 100km/h (62 mph) from a standsill while top speed stands at 237 km/h (147 mph). All models come as standard with a six speed manual gearbox that channels the revvy power of the engines to the front wheels. Optionally, the Cooper Roadster and Cooper S Roadster can be ordered with a six speed automatic.

Agile handling and a timely response, emblematic for the MINI brand, come from the Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) system and the active rear spoiler, which extends automatically when the car reaches 80 km/h (50 mph).

The company is counting on the Roadster range to be a fine compliment to the other five, already successful MINI, MINI Countryman, MINI Clubman, MINI convertible and the MINI Coupé.

Source: MINI

December 16, 2011

CoverEFX Mini Cooper

The CoverEFX & CFC StylingStation company in Erftstadt has two tuned MINIs.

The first one is foiled in Sunflower yellow and the second is finished in Smurf-blue. Both MINIs have all attached parts painted black, including the interior lights and Wiecher’s cage. The plastic wheel arches had to be reworked after the assembly of the suspension and brakes.

The performance upgrades include a modified PreKat and an ECU re-map giving the engine additional 17PS (13 kW) and 22Nm (16 lb-ft). The hand-crafted and dynamic pressure-optimized exhaust system with stainless steel manifolds and down pipe by the KBR Motorsports.

The stance is thanks to a Bilstein B16 suspension. There are also n OMP strut brace and a supporting arm, and an adjustable rear stabilizer – 17 mm by H & R. Both MINIs stand on Crono rims by OZ Racing 7J x 17” fitted with 205/40 R17 Toyo tires.

The interior boasts RECARO seats upholstered with Alcantara.

Source: CoverEFX

November 22, 2011

2012 MINI Cooper Hardtop B-Spec Racer

A new MINI Cooper B-Spec race car will take place in the 2012 race season in USA. B-Spec vehicles are production-based cars that are equalized on power and weight to make the racing as competitive as possible and all four of the major racing sanctioning bodies will host B-Spec races in 2012.

“B-Spec racing is a great fit for MINI because the car is developed with racing heritage in mind and the races are run with vehicles very similar to those already sitting in the driveway,” said Jim McDowell, Vice President – MINI USA.

“Getting involved with B-Spec racing offers a fun and competitive race environment without requiring MINI drivers to make a large financial investment to make their car a serious competitor.”, he added.

The race car is built by MINI of Charleston and features minor upgrades – a coilover suspension, Carbotech brake system and 15” light alloy wheels fiited with Hoosier racing tires.

The engine is not extremely powerful, but it brings good performance. Despite that performance specs are not released, the factory version accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 8.4 seconds and a top speed of 203 km/h (126 mph). The power unit is 1.6 liter four-cylinder petrol with 123PS (90 kW) and 154Nm (114 lb-ft) of torque.

2012 MINI Cooper Hardtop B-Spec Racer:

HP: 121 @ 6,000, factory rated

TQ: 114 @ 4,250, factory rated

Steering: Electric power-assisted rack and pinion, 14.1:1 ratio

Weight: 2,535 pounds, 60.4%/39.6% F/R, factory rated

Length / Wheelbase / Height: 146.6″/ 97.1″ / 55.4″

Suspension: KW V1 Coilover Struts and Shocks/ Vorshlag front camber plates

Brakes: Standard MINI Brake system with Carbotech Brake Pads and Way Motorworks Stainless Steel Braided hoses.

Safety Equipment: Kirk Racing Roll Cage with Kirkey Intermediate Road Racing Seat and Schroth Hybrid III Harnesses, Cage Nets and Window Net.

Wheel / Tire: 15 x 7 Kosei K1 aluminum alloy / Hoosier SM6 205-50-15

Performance-enhancing electronics standard on all MINIs:

•   Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)
•   Four-wheel disc Anti-Lock Brakes (ABS)
•   Cornering Brake Control (CBC)
•   Brake Force Distribution (BFD)

Source: MINI USA

November 21, 2011

2012 MINI Roadster

There is no doubt that MINI Cooper is one of the best cars on the market. Now, there is a new version, which brings even more pleasure and excitement – 2012 Cooper Roadster. The car is practically the same as the MINI Roadster Concept.

MINI keeps the nice and primary go-kart feeling, but with a number of safety features like bespoke chassis set-up, low centre of gravity, torsionally rigid body and optimised aerodynamic properties. 2012 MINI Roadster comes with Electric Power Steering and DSC as standard. As an option, you can order EDLC – Electronic Differential Lock Control, which is standard in the John Cooper Works version. The new MINI roadster also has roll-over bars in polished stainless steel and active rear spoiler extends automatically at 80 km/h.

The interior is practically the same – center-mounted speedometer, a wide dashboard and circular air vents. But there are also bespoke colour and materials concept for upholstery and trim elements.

The standard equipment includes speed-sensitive steering assistance, electrically adjustable exterior mirrors, Park Distance Control, air conditioning and audio system with MP3-compatible CD player and AUX IN connection.

Options list is large, but some of the extras are black headlight housing, xenon Adaptive Headlights, Comfort Access, automatic climate control and the Always Open Timer. There are also wide range of entertainment and communications options: Harman Kardon hi-fi loudspeaker system, MINI navigation system, MINI Connected features including Driving Excitement app, web radio, Google services, RSS news feeds, Mission Control, and in-car use of Facebook and Twitter.

No doubt, that 2012 MINI Cooper Roadster is a brilliant small car, which will bring joy to its owners.

Check out the specifications, below!

Specifications:

MINI John Cooper Works Roadster:

Four-cylinder petrol engine with MINI TwinPower Turbo technology and numerous technological details carried over directly from motor sport.
Displacement: 1,598 cc, output: 155 kW/211 hp at 6,000 rpm,
max. torque: 260 Nm/192 lb-ft at 1,850 – 5,600 rpm (280 Nm/207 lb-ft with Overboost at 2,000 – 5,100 rpm). Acceleration 0–100 km/h (62 mph): 6.5 seconds, top speed: 237 km/h (147 mph). Average fuel consumption according to EU: 7.3 litres/100 kilometres (38.7 mpg imp), CO2 emissions: 169 g/km.

MINI Cooper S Roadster:

Four-cylinder petrol engine with
MINI TwinPower Turbo technology. Displacement: 1,598 cc,
output: 135 kW/184 hp at 5,500 rpm, max. torque: 240 Nm/177 lb-ft at 1,600 – 5,000 rpm (260 Nm/192 lb-ft with Overboost at 1,730 – 4,500 rpm). Acceleration 0–100 km/h (62 mph): 7.0 seconds,
top speed: 227 km/h (141 mph). Average fuel consumption according to EU: 6.0 litres/100 kilometres (47.1 mpg imp), CO2 emissions: 139 g/km.

MINI Cooper Roadster:

Four-cylinder petrol engine with fully variable valve management based on the BMW Group’s VALVETRONIC technology. Displacement: 1,598 cc, output: 90 kW/122 hp at 6,000 rpm, max. torque: 160 Nm/118 lb-ft at 4,250 rpm. Acceleration 0–100 km/h (62 mph): 9.2 seconds, top speed: 199 km/h (124 mph). Average fuel consumption according to EU: 5.7 litres/100 kilometres (49.6 mpg imp),
CO2 emissions: 133 g/km.

MINI Cooper SD Roadster:

Four-cylinder turbodiesel with MINI TwinPower Turbo technology. Displacement: 1,995 cc, output: 105 kW/143 hp at 4,000 rpm, max. torque: 305 Nm/225 lb-ft at 1,750 – 2,700 rpm. Acceleration 0–100 km/h (62 mph): 8.1 seconds,
top speed: 212 km/h (132 mph). Average fuel consumption according to EU: 4.5 litres/100 kilometres (62.8 mpg imp), CO2 emissions: 118 g/km.

Exterior dimensions:

Length: 3,734 millimetres (MINI Cooper Roadster: 3,728 millimetres, MINI John Cooper Works Roadster: 3,758 millimetres)
Width: 1,683 millimetres
Height: 1,390 millimetres (MINI Cooper Roadster: 1,384 millimetres, MINI John Cooper Works Roadster: 1,391 millimetres)
Wheelbase: 2,467 millimetres

Source: MINI

October 31, 2011

Tag: Mini Cooper