You are currently viewing our forum as a guest, which gives you limited access to view most discussions and access our other features. By joining our community, at no cost, you will have access to post topics, communicate privately with other members (PM), respond to polls, upload content and access many other special features. Registration is free, fast and simple, so please join our community today!
I know at this point in time, with BMW unable to keep up with the demand for the MINI, this is somewhat irrelevant, but I was thinking...
I want to buy a regeneration of the Austin Healey Sprite. I mean a real minimalist roadster- significantly less than 2000lb with extra gizmos only as options- including air conditioning. I am unclear about what brands BMW currently owns, but I believe that they still own this one. The historical ties to the original Mini and the competitions between the two would make this interesting.
This might seem too expensive, but think about it- The rear suspension for the mini was designed from a RWD car. BMW is developing new, smaller parts for the RWD 1 series. A number of the mass produced parts from the MINI (engine, steering rack, radiator, brakes, etc.) could be carried over. I don't know if any existing floorpan could be used; however bonded aluminum has been used successfully for other low # production vehicles (Elise, Panoz), if you don't mind the added expense. I personally would like to see them keep the price down- since owning such a basic car would be added luxury for many people.
I would love a new Bugeye. I think BMW could find a market for an inexpensive, small, lightweight, exceptionally handling, raw, true sports car- as long as they control costs keep their projected numbers low. Reviving the AH Sprite brand would allow them to provide such a car without the required silent refined luxury of a current BMW.
Ahh...I remember the Sprite. It was my second car...crusing up and down the San Diego coast, with the top completely removed. I loved that car!
I think a revamp of the Sprite (Bug Eye or regular) would be fantastic! Just so long as it didn't end up looking like a miata. And, if whoever built it would stay true to the original (lots of chrome, removable top, toggle switches, 2 seats, no A/C option) I would be one of the first in line.
But, alas, it IS just a dream. A damn fine one at that!
I wonder what the lightest "affordable" car is that someone like BMW would be allowed to BUILD today? They would have to fight their own safety/legal people, and the gov't now has all sorts of mandatory crash testing that the cars must survive. I doubt that Volkswagen could even build a car as light as their old Golf (aka Rabbit). My '79 Rabbit moved pretty good with only about 80 HP; because it weighed less that 2000 lb (as I recall)!
I think BMW "tried", with the MINI; but 2600-2800 lb (for a real car, with gas....) is more "MIDI" than "MINI".
I, too, would like a car with the MINI's power (either one) and a gross weight under 2000 lb!
As Colin Chapman used to say: "...to go faster, add lightness" (or words to that effect).
