Hey! I'm John Riley and I live in Atlanta, GA. I own John Riley IT, a provider of technology support that designs and implements complex infrastructure plans and designs home theater and audio systems. We are extremely popular in the Buckhead area and do anything from cleaning up pcs to designing a messaging system for 10,000. I don't have a Mini--yet, but think I am going to get a 2008 Lightning Blue Mini Cooper S w/:

White Bonnet Stripes and White Roof/Mirrors, DSC, Xenon Headlights, Comfort Bluetooth and iPod, Automatic AC, Center Arm Rest, Computer Nav. System, Comfort Access System, Alarm, 10 speaker, HiFi sound system, and a (hopefully) a kick *** driver.

I have to admit that the first time I saw a Mini Cooper, I thought it was pretty gay. Then I saw the Italian Job and decided to get behind the wheel on one. Whoa! They are amazing cars and are much safer than I thought. I was thinking about getting the convertible model at first, but I thought the hardtop looks better.

I do have a couple of things I would like people to help with:

-What is the difference between "Bluetooth prep" and "Comfort Bluetooth"? I have an iPod Touch with a Blackberry, but would like to use an iPhone with it and have access to both Bluetooth and iPod controls from the wheel. Let's Motor! Thanks!

 

Oh and what the hell is a "limited slip differential" and what does it do?

 

Anyone?

 

*waves*

Whew, you define extrovert *introverted grin*

A normal differential is designed to allow the wheels to turn at different speeds. Consider a sharp corner: the outer wheels have a higher angular velocity than the inner wheels. On the flip side, when you apply significant torque to the drive wheels, a normal differential will favor one wheel.

The limited slip differential does just as the name suggests. It distributes the power in a more equal fashion to both drive wheels. So your feet are more firmly planted on the ground during spirited acceleration, more or less.

 

Whoa! Whats the fun of "staying on the ground" and such if you buy a mini!

 

Hi, jriley. The goofy gay comment is not exactly the best way to make your debut on the site, but welcome to you, anyway.

Your specs look great. When do you take the plunge?

 

I don't know when I am going to go for it. I have the money, but I think I am going to hold off another year or so until I get some things settled. I think I am going to buy a new condo before I go for the Mini. I don't know SWEET Mini Cooper S vs. The Reynolds on Peachtree (SWEET!)... I think I may go for the shelter first.

Plus-- about the gay comment- seriously, who actually wants to stay on the road. I don't mind skidding everywhere as long as it is safe!

 

*smiles politely, and walks away*