What is the difference between the two other then the obvious wheel arches. I ask this because I had heard that the sport Pack Mini didn't corner as well as a regular Mini. Are there suspension difference's that might cause this.

Thanks

 

The problem with the Sportspack is primarily due to the geometry of the wide 13" wheels. There was an article in Mini Magazine about this a few months back - I believe it's the issue with the orange GT on the cover.

 

I have nothing to compare with, but my 13" wheels seem to do fine on the corners. And more importantly, they look nice

 

The Mini suspension was not built for the 13" wheels. They are too heavy. The car will do better on 12s or 10s. I've read several articles that discussed this topic. Perhaps a google search???

 

After doing much research I have deceided to go with the 12" wheels. The Sport Pack Mini's have to much room between the arch and the tire. Just doesn't look right. I'm going for the Lamm arches instead. The 12" wheels fit really nice under them and should out corner a 13" Sport Pack. From what I understand the Sport Pack's have more body roll and need that additional space under the arch. Also the Sport Pack's have way to much bling bling for my liking. I wish I could afford to subscribe to Mini Mag. really sounds like a great mag. But to get it to the U.S. it's a small fortune.

 

Something to consider might be the difficulty in getting the 12 inch tires. 13's are more available stateside. I have 12's and I would almost prefer 13's or even 10's. Just my $.02. I think the wheel selection is a little limited and somewhat pricey.

 

Click on my sig link and check out my mini. It has the Lamm body kit and 13" wheels. I took it to the Dragon and it was rippin through the corners. Good luck.

 

I just did a Google search for 12 inch tires and found a few. Minimania carries a few as well.

 

try greatbritishcars.com He usually has 12" tires in stock.

 

From Keith Calver, who is probably the #1 expert in the world of Mini tuning:

http://www.gr8website2.com/calverst/CC121.htm

Click on: “Wheels&tyres-Bigger wheel fitment cons”

 

Thanks for posting that article. Great stuff on that website. I've been working with Paul at Minioasis and he explained the same info about the 12" verses 13" wheels and the difference in the steering racks. Looks like he was right on. For those reasons in the article I'm going with the 12" wheels.

 

Except for getting higher ground clearance, 10inch wheels are better across the board, hands down.

 

I love the handling, feel and look of 10" tires on a Mini That's what's on mine 10x6's with 165/70-10 A008's tho I'd really like A032's. As far as ground clearance, the dia of 175/45-13 is similar to the std Mini 10", I believe.

That said, I had a 78 Clubman saloon 1380cc with 13'" Sumitomo HTR-100s, Superlights, GAZ shocks & neg camber F&R and placed 3rd ftd autocross in 2002 MME in Charleston. Beaten by .01 sec by a race prepped classic on slicks and 1 sec by the GRM MINI Cooper. First autocross I'd driven in years....So do they handle well enough? I'd say yes.

 

Yeah. Lets hear it for 13s.