New MINI driver reporting in
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1st Gear
Joined: Apr 2008
Posts: 25
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From: Central Massachusetts
New MINI driver reporting in
I just ordered a 2008 S for use as a daily driver. It replaces a 1992 M-B 300E4Matic - how's that for a major change?
I had thought of another (used) 4 door AWD car with less complexity than a M-B, but didn't want to go the M-B or Audi route again. Considered a Volvo, but then had a flash of inspiration. I like performance cars, didn't really need a big car (I run a management consulting practice out of a home office so I don't have a commute and rarely if ever need to take clients somewhere in the car), and I have 2 sons that need to learn performance driving but not at the Porsche (cost) level (I am a driving instructor for the Porsche Club of America).
Hmm - if I get a Mini, I can have fun, maybe get them autocrossing and learn how to use a stick. Big grin here!
Took a long test drive at Mini of Peabody in MA; very impressed with the quality and performance of the car. Reminds me a bit of my long-ago 1972 BMW 2002 crossed with a 1980 Rabbit we owned once. More of the BMW than the Rabbit (:>}).
A major difference is FWD, of course, but I think I will get used to that.
Although there were a ton of cars on the lot to choose from (both new and used), I ordered new, as I just couldn't find a car with Limited Slip. Since we might try some casual autocrossing, LSD seemed like a good idea.
So - I am now officially in love with the Mini and can't wait to take delivery. Dark Silver with black roof and mirrors (went into the dealer thinking yellow, blue, or black, so thats another change; the Dark Silver is much prettier in the flesh than in the brochures, and I thought it might make a better Q-ship on the road).
My compliments to this site; I spend a lot (too much?) time on Rennlist (Porsche site) and it looks like I will spend equal time here. All kidding aside, Rennlist has saved me a bunch of money and brought me many new friends.
Pics to follow.
I had thought of another (used) 4 door AWD car with less complexity than a M-B, but didn't want to go the M-B or Audi route again. Considered a Volvo, but then had a flash of inspiration. I like performance cars, didn't really need a big car (I run a management consulting practice out of a home office so I don't have a commute and rarely if ever need to take clients somewhere in the car), and I have 2 sons that need to learn performance driving but not at the Porsche (cost) level (I am a driving instructor for the Porsche Club of America).
Hmm - if I get a Mini, I can have fun, maybe get them autocrossing and learn how to use a stick. Big grin here!
Took a long test drive at Mini of Peabody in MA; very impressed with the quality and performance of the car. Reminds me a bit of my long-ago 1972 BMW 2002 crossed with a 1980 Rabbit we owned once. More of the BMW than the Rabbit (:>}).
A major difference is FWD, of course, but I think I will get used to that.
Although there were a ton of cars on the lot to choose from (both new and used), I ordered new, as I just couldn't find a car with Limited Slip. Since we might try some casual autocrossing, LSD seemed like a good idea.
So - I am now officially in love with the Mini and can't wait to take delivery. Dark Silver with black roof and mirrors (went into the dealer thinking yellow, blue, or black, so thats another change; the Dark Silver is much prettier in the flesh than in the brochures, and I thought it might make a better Q-ship on the road).
My compliments to this site; I spend a lot (too much?) time on Rennlist (Porsche site) and it looks like I will spend equal time here. All kidding aside, Rennlist has saved me a bunch of money and brought me many new friends.
Pics to follow.
Last edited by RickBetterley; Apr 16, 2008 at 10:37 AM. Reason: My usual poor spelling needed fixing
Thread Starter
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1st Gear
Joined: Apr 2008
Posts: 25
Likes: 0
From: Central Massachusetts
Thanks, everybody - its nice to be welcomed!
I am told the car went into production this past Tuesday April 15 (or should I use the British convention for dates: 15 April?) so i am looking forward to hearing more about the delivery schedule.
I was driving around yesterday thinking 'man, I can't wait to get that MINI'; my 16-year old son (future autocross buddy) agreed.
I am told the car went into production this past Tuesday April 15 (or should I use the British convention for dates: 15 April?) so i am looking forward to hearing more about the delivery schedule.
I was driving around yesterday thinking 'man, I can't wait to get that MINI'; my 16-year old son (future autocross buddy) agreed.
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