Just wanted to sign in and say Hi.

I really didn't know much about the Mini but needed a car with better gas mileage and would be fun to drive. Saw a couple on the road and thought they looked pretty cool. Talked with the spousal unit and she concured.

We motored over to Orlando and test drove everything (S, nonS, Clubman, convertable, etc...) and just fell in love with the feel, look and sportiness. We kinda knew what we wanted but with a limited inventory, we couldn't pull the trigger on less than what we wanted. Drove away kinda disapointed but now on a mission.

Went home and hit the MINIUSA site and fooled around with building what I wanted, resigned to the fact that I destined to having to order and wait months. Further research found a dealer that was open on Sunday (West Palm). Drove on the lot and saw exactly the model and color that I had designed the night before. 30 minutes later, I joined the club.

Bought a 08, Pure Silver, MC, auto, convertable with the premimum package and bonnet stripes. I was really pumped and drove home (2.5 hours) in 55F with the top down, in accordance with the 90/10 guidelines. In fact, the car has not yet been put in gear with the top up.

I look forward to picking up some great tips and advice from this site.

Thanks,

Al