I’m going to explain things a little bit before I get to why I’m asking the question.

I currently semi-DD an ‘09 R55 S Manual. I’ve rebuilt the engine (9k miles ago), new turbo cartridge, new clutch/flywheel, new front suspension, new B4’s all around (standard suspension), new tires (17” ContiExtremeContact) and other little things. Chassis has 200k on it, but it’s in good shape. I have a blast driving the car and it has some features on it I like: sunroof, Xenons, Comfort access, heated Lounge seats (I installed, but still have the Sport seats).

I also bought a ‘10 R56 non-S manual as a parts car, mainly for the sunroof and center armrest, with 132k on the chassis. Engine cylinders are scored, so the engine is shot, but otherwise the car is in good shape and complete. I ended up not needing the sunroof as the one in the Clubman works fine. 6-speed manual, sunroof, H/K system, heated seats, but otherwise basic (15” wheels).

I am moving in June to Ware, MA and will be 10 minutes from Palmer Motorsports Park. I plan to utilize the track, but not heavily as I work full time and have 2 kids. Which one would be good for light track duty? I realize the S would be good for the straights, but as an overall track car, which would be better? It won’t be a dedicated track car as I’d rather put those kinds of funds into my 914 semi-resto project, but want something fun to toss around the track. I can only keep one. I don’t mind rebuilding an N16 to get the non-S back on the road, MAYBE even tear this one down to really get a good look at the scoring as it MAY be salvageable. I do plan to also use the car on public roads, so NOT planning on doing much/any track dedicated suspension work.

Who has run both and can give some perspective? Again, not trying to be the fastest Mini on the track, just want to improve my driving skills and have fun. I plan on driving it to and from the track, since it’s only 4.7 miles from my soon-to-be house. I can only keep 1 given all the other vehicles I have and plan on taking with me. Hell, I’ve thought about selling both and just buying something once I’ve moved and settled in.

The primary reason I’m asking this is not just from a speed/lap time standpoint, but from a reliability standpoint. I realize the N14 has a lot of haters, but I love the engine. I also like being able to drive slow cars fast, which is why I would also consider the N12/N16 power plant. I believe both can be reliable, especially if rebuilt correctly and maintained correctly.

Actual cars in question pictured.

Thanks for reading and any/all opinions are welcome.

 

If the Clubman is running strong, I would run the Clubman.

 

Me too, but just because it's different.

From a lapping day perspective, take the car that runs and do a day or two as you are.
See how you like the car, the track, the people.

Then go from there. The N14 won't be a long- term track engine, but
you may discover you want to go RWD, someone offers you a good deal on a Caterham,
you get a free Miata, 3 other lappers say 'hey, I have a couple of clubmans with lots of engine parts-
come get them, you can have 'em', you discover you can
rent a low- buck race car for roughly the cost of tires, etc. etc. etc.

so the short version- go try it and see what happens, THEN adjust your plans accordingly.

t

 

Toby B, good advice. I had thought about going the typical Miata route, but that would require buying another car. I had one a few years ago I got for free from my parents as it sat outside for over 10 years. Got it running and driving, but needed too much for me at that time. I think I might also like a hardtop, but we’ll see.

I don’t anticipate this endeavor being a regular thing, but one never knows. I’ll most likely keep the Clubman, since it runs and drives, and maybe attend some driving schools and go from there.