R50/53 My new MINI S at Summit Point at speed!
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My new MINI S at Summit Point at speed!
All,
Got my new MINI S a couple of months ago, and broke it in real fast so I could do what I bought the car for. Take it to Summit Point raceway in WV and drive my MINI at speed!
Summit Point has what they call 'Friday at the Track' where you get to drive your car at speed in a group. I was in the novice group obviously, and you have an instructor sitting with you in the car for all 4 20 minute sessions. There is no passing per say, but if a faster car is coming you wave him to pass on certain sections (you can not pass if you are faster until the car waves you buy). You don't need to do anything special to your car (except take eveything out so nothing can fly around). Convertibles need a real roll bar though. All you need is a helmet, and they will loan those to you if you don't have one (I used my 3/4 motorcycle helmet).
So my friend with his Infinity G-35 coupe and I went, and let me tell you, it was a BLAST. The first two runs were pretty much learning the lines and getting comfortable, but the last two I was really feeling comfortable, hitting most of the lines right and just flying! (I'd like to proudly say, even in my slow MINI I passed more cars then passed me). The instructors were great and I learned a TON about driving in just 1 day. (I agree with others that say real driving instruction will make your MINI faster then ANY mod can)
Summit Point is a 2 mile natural terrain road course. It has a nice 3000 foot straight where I hit just over 110mph before slamming on the breaks for a hairpin, but the real fun is all the S's and hitting the corners just right where you take the maximum speed through. Feels awesome when you get it right. The MINI is really a great learning car, since it handles great and can't go too fast it's hard for a novice to get in real trouble. The only thing is because of the (great) tight steering, you do have to work on being smooth. Jerking the car around a turn is fine at 40mph, but not 80mph!
We're going back in 2 months, and that time my friend and I are going to switch cars for a run so I will be able to see the difference on a rear wheel drive G-35.
My car has the Alta CAI and 15% reduction pulley, that's it. Doubt I'll do more for horsepower, I'll work on handling. The #1 thing I need to do is replace the run flats! That should help. I'll probably get a stiffer rear sway bar, but I'll wait until I do it a few more times and get smoother and better at high speed turning in general.
By the way, the MINI was very popular. The instructors basically walk around picking cars they want to ride in, and I had a lot who wanted to ride in my MINI. There were a lot of Corvettes there by the way... And by the way, you use a TON of gas, since you are driving near the red line the whole time. I averaged 16 miles per gallon during track time!
Unfortunately the only negative of the day came from the only other MINI owner there. I went over to say hi, but when he found out I have an automatic he said something to the effect that I didn't have a real car, and I never talked to him again. Hey, maybe I just wanted paddle shifters. (which are a blast - I did the first two times in auto, less to concentrate on, but that was dumb as you really only use 3 and 4th gear (and 5th on the long straight) and its more fun when shifting. I thought of telling him that real race cars don't have heaters or air conditioners too so his car wasn't real either, but it just goes to show there are a few jerks in every crowd (and yes I know how to drive a manual - I own 2 motorcycles
I encourage everyone with a MINI to give something like this a try. It will show you what your MINI can really do, will make you a better driver, and mostly is TONS of fun (without having to worry about a ticket!)
- John Connor
Got my new MINI S a couple of months ago, and broke it in real fast so I could do what I bought the car for. Take it to Summit Point raceway in WV and drive my MINI at speed!
Summit Point has what they call 'Friday at the Track' where you get to drive your car at speed in a group. I was in the novice group obviously, and you have an instructor sitting with you in the car for all 4 20 minute sessions. There is no passing per say, but if a faster car is coming you wave him to pass on certain sections (you can not pass if you are faster until the car waves you buy). You don't need to do anything special to your car (except take eveything out so nothing can fly around). Convertibles need a real roll bar though. All you need is a helmet, and they will loan those to you if you don't have one (I used my 3/4 motorcycle helmet).
So my friend with his Infinity G-35 coupe and I went, and let me tell you, it was a BLAST. The first two runs were pretty much learning the lines and getting comfortable, but the last two I was really feeling comfortable, hitting most of the lines right and just flying! (I'd like to proudly say, even in my slow MINI I passed more cars then passed me). The instructors were great and I learned a TON about driving in just 1 day. (I agree with others that say real driving instruction will make your MINI faster then ANY mod can)
Summit Point is a 2 mile natural terrain road course. It has a nice 3000 foot straight where I hit just over 110mph before slamming on the breaks for a hairpin, but the real fun is all the S's and hitting the corners just right where you take the maximum speed through. Feels awesome when you get it right. The MINI is really a great learning car, since it handles great and can't go too fast it's hard for a novice to get in real trouble. The only thing is because of the (great) tight steering, you do have to work on being smooth. Jerking the car around a turn is fine at 40mph, but not 80mph!
We're going back in 2 months, and that time my friend and I are going to switch cars for a run so I will be able to see the difference on a rear wheel drive G-35.
My car has the Alta CAI and 15% reduction pulley, that's it. Doubt I'll do more for horsepower, I'll work on handling. The #1 thing I need to do is replace the run flats! That should help. I'll probably get a stiffer rear sway bar, but I'll wait until I do it a few more times and get smoother and better at high speed turning in general.
By the way, the MINI was very popular. The instructors basically walk around picking cars they want to ride in, and I had a lot who wanted to ride in my MINI. There were a lot of Corvettes there by the way... And by the way, you use a TON of gas, since you are driving near the red line the whole time. I averaged 16 miles per gallon during track time!
Unfortunately the only negative of the day came from the only other MINI owner there. I went over to say hi, but when he found out I have an automatic he said something to the effect that I didn't have a real car, and I never talked to him again. Hey, maybe I just wanted paddle shifters. (which are a blast - I did the first two times in auto, less to concentrate on, but that was dumb as you really only use 3 and 4th gear (and 5th on the long straight) and its more fun when shifting. I thought of telling him that real race cars don't have heaters or air conditioners too so his car wasn't real either, but it just goes to show there are a few jerks in every crowd (and yes I know how to drive a manual - I own 2 motorcycles
I encourage everyone with a MINI to give something like this a try. It will show you what your MINI can really do, will make you a better driver, and mostly is TONS of fun (without having to worry about a ticket!)
- John Connor
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Joined: Jun 2005
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Originally Posted by asterix2112
All,
Got my new MINI S a couple of months ago, and broke it in real fast so I could do what I bought the car for. Take it to Summit Point raceway in WV and drive my MINI at speed!
Summit Point has what they call 'Friday at the Track' where you get to drive your car at speed in a group. I was in the novice group obviously, and you have an instructor sitting with you in the car for all 4 20 minute sessions. There is no passing per say, but if a faster car is coming you wave him to pass on certain sections (you can not pass if you are faster until the car waves you buy). You don't need to do anything special to your car (except take eveything out so nothing can fly around). Convertibles need a real roll bar though. All you need is a helmet, and they will loan those to you if you don't have one (I used my 3/4 motorcycle helmet).
So my friend with his Infinity G-35 coupe and I went, and let me tell you, it was a BLAST. The first two runs were pretty much learning the lines and getting comfortable, but the last two I was really feeling comfortable, hitting most of the lines right and just flying! (I'd like to proudly say, even in my slow MINI I passed more cars then passed me). The instructors were great and I learned a TON about driving in just 1 day. (I agree with others that say real driving instruction will make your MINI faster then ANY mod can)
Summit Point is a 2 mile natural terrain road course. It has a nice 3000 foot straight where I hit just over 110mph before slamming on the breaks for a hairpin, but the real fun is all the S's and hitting the corners just right where you take the maximum speed through. Feels awesome when you get it right. The MINI is really a great learning car, since it handles great and can't go too fast it's hard for a novice to get in real trouble. The only thing is because of the (great) tight steering, you do have to work on being smooth. Jerking the car around a turn is fine at 40mph, but not 80mph!
We're going back in 2 months, and that time my friend and I are going to switch cars for a run so I will be able to see the difference on a rear wheel drive G-35.
My car has the Alta CAI and 15% reduction pulley, that's it. Doubt I'll do more for horsepower, I'll work on handling. The #1 thing I need to do is replace the run flats! That should help. I'll probably get a stiffer rear sway bar, but I'll wait until I do it a few more times and get smoother and better at high speed turning in general.
By the way, the MINI was very popular. The instructors basically walk around picking cars they want to ride in, and I had a lot who wanted to ride in my MINI. There were a lot of Corvettes there by the way... And by the way, you use a TON of gas, since you are driving near the red line the whole time. I averaged 16 miles per gallon during track time!
Unfortunately the only negative of the day came from the only other MINI owner there. I went over to say hi, but when he found out I have an automatic he said something to the effect that I didn't have a real car, and I never talked to him again. Hey, maybe I just wanted paddle shifters. (which are a blast - I did the first two times in auto, less to concentrate on, but that was dumb as you really only use 3 and 4th gear (and 5th on the long straight) and its more fun when shifting. I thought of telling him that real race cars don't have heaters or air conditioners too so his car wasn't real either, but it just goes to show there are a few jerks in every crowd (and yes I know how to drive a manual - I own 2 motorcycles
I encourage everyone with a MINI to give something like this a try. It will show you what your MINI can really do, will make you a better driver, and mostly is TONS of fun (without having to worry about a ticket!)
- John Connor
Got my new MINI S a couple of months ago, and broke it in real fast so I could do what I bought the car for. Take it to Summit Point raceway in WV and drive my MINI at speed!
Summit Point has what they call 'Friday at the Track' where you get to drive your car at speed in a group. I was in the novice group obviously, and you have an instructor sitting with you in the car for all 4 20 minute sessions. There is no passing per say, but if a faster car is coming you wave him to pass on certain sections (you can not pass if you are faster until the car waves you buy). You don't need to do anything special to your car (except take eveything out so nothing can fly around). Convertibles need a real roll bar though. All you need is a helmet, and they will loan those to you if you don't have one (I used my 3/4 motorcycle helmet).
So my friend with his Infinity G-35 coupe and I went, and let me tell you, it was a BLAST. The first two runs were pretty much learning the lines and getting comfortable, but the last two I was really feeling comfortable, hitting most of the lines right and just flying! (I'd like to proudly say, even in my slow MINI I passed more cars then passed me). The instructors were great and I learned a TON about driving in just 1 day. (I agree with others that say real driving instruction will make your MINI faster then ANY mod can)
Summit Point is a 2 mile natural terrain road course. It has a nice 3000 foot straight where I hit just over 110mph before slamming on the breaks for a hairpin, but the real fun is all the S's and hitting the corners just right where you take the maximum speed through. Feels awesome when you get it right. The MINI is really a great learning car, since it handles great and can't go too fast it's hard for a novice to get in real trouble. The only thing is because of the (great) tight steering, you do have to work on being smooth. Jerking the car around a turn is fine at 40mph, but not 80mph!
We're going back in 2 months, and that time my friend and I are going to switch cars for a run so I will be able to see the difference on a rear wheel drive G-35.
My car has the Alta CAI and 15% reduction pulley, that's it. Doubt I'll do more for horsepower, I'll work on handling. The #1 thing I need to do is replace the run flats! That should help. I'll probably get a stiffer rear sway bar, but I'll wait until I do it a few more times and get smoother and better at high speed turning in general.
By the way, the MINI was very popular. The instructors basically walk around picking cars they want to ride in, and I had a lot who wanted to ride in my MINI. There were a lot of Corvettes there by the way... And by the way, you use a TON of gas, since you are driving near the red line the whole time. I averaged 16 miles per gallon during track time!
Unfortunately the only negative of the day came from the only other MINI owner there. I went over to say hi, but when he found out I have an automatic he said something to the effect that I didn't have a real car, and I never talked to him again. Hey, maybe I just wanted paddle shifters. (which are a blast - I did the first two times in auto, less to concentrate on, but that was dumb as you really only use 3 and 4th gear (and 5th on the long straight) and its more fun when shifting. I thought of telling him that real race cars don't have heaters or air conditioners too so his car wasn't real either, but it just goes to show there are a few jerks in every crowd (and yes I know how to drive a manual - I own 2 motorcycles
I encourage everyone with a MINI to give something like this a try. It will show you what your MINI can really do, will make you a better driver, and mostly is TONS of fun (without having to worry about a ticket!)
- John Connor
Buy what you like!
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2nd Gear
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Were your thumbs tired from shifting your paddles Buy what you like!
Buy what you like!
We had a little classroom instruction before the start (safety, flags etc...) and someone brought up auto vs. manual until the instructor pointed out that he races in his automatic. This is my first car I have ever owned that's an auto, and I bought it specifically because I wanted to have fun with clutchless paddle shifting (which I love), and was really shocked to find that there seems to be a small minority of people out there who have this extreme disdain for people who drive automatics. Why would you care? Whatever the person likes is fine with me.
- John
Personally, I have disdain for people who never bothered to learn to drive a manual in the first place... unless of course they were physically incapable of doing so.
However, I understand why many people buy automatics, even if they know how to drive a manual. If they drive in a lot of stop and go traffic, commuting every day, then I can see why they chose that route.
I feel that a manual transmission puts you more in control than an automatic. I think you get a much closer "feel" to what the car is doing and when... and you have better control over what gear you want to be in at any given time... after all, an automatic can't see the road ahead, right?
That being said, if I was going to buy a car with an auto, I would strongly prefer something like the MCSa, with the ability to make the decisions yourself on what gear to be in, and a short shift time. I'm sure the MCSa is fun to drive... I haven't had a chance yet, but I'm looking forward to it!
However, I understand why many people buy automatics, even if they know how to drive a manual. If they drive in a lot of stop and go traffic, commuting every day, then I can see why they chose that route.
I feel that a manual transmission puts you more in control than an automatic. I think you get a much closer "feel" to what the car is doing and when... and you have better control over what gear you want to be in at any given time... after all, an automatic can't see the road ahead, right?
That being said, if I was going to buy a car with an auto, I would strongly prefer something like the MCSa, with the ability to make the decisions yourself on what gear to be in, and a short shift time. I'm sure the MCSa is fun to drive... I haven't had a chance yet, but I'm looking forward to it!
5th Gear
Joined: Oct 2004
Posts: 603
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great story / thanks for sharing
some people cant enjoy what they have or are all about without 'selling' it to someone else...
I rebelled against large vehicles, and I too will rebel against people that can not accept others without changing them before understanding them.
Going to a track day in early October and look forward to it....
Thanks again,
I rebelled against large vehicles, and I too will rebel against people that can not accept others without changing them before understanding them.
Going to a track day in early October and look forward to it....
Thanks again,
4th Gear
Joined: Dec 2003
Posts: 469
Likes: 0
From: Maine
Glad you had a great time....
Originally Posted by asterix2112
All,
Got my new MINI S a couple of months ago, and broke it in real fast so I could do what I bought the car for. Take it to Summit Point raceway in WV and drive my MINI at speed!
Summit Point has what they call 'Friday at the Track' where you get to drive your car at speed in a group. I was in the novice group obviously, and you have an instructor sitting with you in the car for all 4 20 minute sessions. There is no passing per say, but if a faster car is coming you wave him to pass on certain sections (you can not pass if you are faster until the car waves you buy). You don't need to do anything special to your car (except take eveything out so nothing can fly around). Convertibles need a real roll bar though. All you need is a helmet, and they will loan those to you if you don't have one (I used my 3/4 motorcycle helmet).
So my friend with his Infinity G-35 coupe and I went, and let me tell you, it was a BLAST. The first two runs were pretty much learning the lines and getting comfortable, but the last two I was really feeling comfortable, hitting most of the lines right and just flying! (I'd like to proudly say, even in my slow MINI I passed more cars then passed me). The instructors were great and I learned a TON about driving in just 1 day. (I agree with others that say real driving instruction will make your MINI faster then ANY mod can)
Summit Point is a 2 mile natural terrain road course. It has a nice 3000 foot straight where I hit just over 110mph before slamming on the breaks for a hairpin, but the real fun is all the S's and hitting the corners just right where you take the maximum speed through. Feels awesome when you get it right. The MINI is really a great learning car, since it handles great and can't go too fast it's hard for a novice to get in real trouble. The only thing is because of the (great) tight steering, you do have to work on being smooth. Jerking the car around a turn is fine at 40mph, but not 80mph!
We're going back in 2 months, and that time my friend and I are going to switch cars for a run so I will be able to see the difference on a rear wheel drive G-35.
My car has the Alta CAI and 15% reduction pulley, that's it. Doubt I'll do more for horsepower, I'll work on handling. The #1 thing I need to do is replace the run flats! That should help. I'll probably get a stiffer rear sway bar, but I'll wait until I do it a few more times and get smoother and better at high speed turning in general.
By the way, the MINI was very popular. The instructors basically walk around picking cars they want to ride in, and I had a lot who wanted to ride in my MINI. There were a lot of Corvettes there by the way... And by the way, you use a TON of gas, since you are driving near the red line the whole time. I averaged 16 miles per gallon during track time!
Unfortunately the only negative of the day came from the only other MINI owner there. I went over to say hi, but when he found out I have an automatic he said something to the effect that I didn't have a real car, and I never talked to him again. Hey, maybe I just wanted paddle shifters. (which are a blast - I did the first two times in auto, less to concentrate on, but that was dumb as you really only use 3 and 4th gear (and 5th on the long straight) and its more fun when shifting. I thought of telling him that real race cars don't have heaters or air conditioners too so his car wasn't real either, but it just goes to show there are a few jerks in every crowd (and yes I know how to drive a manual - I own 2 motorcycles
I encourage everyone with a MINI to give something like this a try. It will show you what your MINI can really do, will make you a better driver, and mostly is TONS of fun (without having to worry about a ticket!)
- John Connor
Got my new MINI S a couple of months ago, and broke it in real fast so I could do what I bought the car for. Take it to Summit Point raceway in WV and drive my MINI at speed!
Summit Point has what they call 'Friday at the Track' where you get to drive your car at speed in a group. I was in the novice group obviously, and you have an instructor sitting with you in the car for all 4 20 minute sessions. There is no passing per say, but if a faster car is coming you wave him to pass on certain sections (you can not pass if you are faster until the car waves you buy). You don't need to do anything special to your car (except take eveything out so nothing can fly around). Convertibles need a real roll bar though. All you need is a helmet, and they will loan those to you if you don't have one (I used my 3/4 motorcycle helmet).
So my friend with his Infinity G-35 coupe and I went, and let me tell you, it was a BLAST. The first two runs were pretty much learning the lines and getting comfortable, but the last two I was really feeling comfortable, hitting most of the lines right and just flying! (I'd like to proudly say, even in my slow MINI I passed more cars then passed me). The instructors were great and I learned a TON about driving in just 1 day. (I agree with others that say real driving instruction will make your MINI faster then ANY mod can)
Summit Point is a 2 mile natural terrain road course. It has a nice 3000 foot straight where I hit just over 110mph before slamming on the breaks for a hairpin, but the real fun is all the S's and hitting the corners just right where you take the maximum speed through. Feels awesome when you get it right. The MINI is really a great learning car, since it handles great and can't go too fast it's hard for a novice to get in real trouble. The only thing is because of the (great) tight steering, you do have to work on being smooth. Jerking the car around a turn is fine at 40mph, but not 80mph!
We're going back in 2 months, and that time my friend and I are going to switch cars for a run so I will be able to see the difference on a rear wheel drive G-35.
My car has the Alta CAI and 15% reduction pulley, that's it. Doubt I'll do more for horsepower, I'll work on handling. The #1 thing I need to do is replace the run flats! That should help. I'll probably get a stiffer rear sway bar, but I'll wait until I do it a few more times and get smoother and better at high speed turning in general.
By the way, the MINI was very popular. The instructors basically walk around picking cars they want to ride in, and I had a lot who wanted to ride in my MINI. There were a lot of Corvettes there by the way... And by the way, you use a TON of gas, since you are driving near the red line the whole time. I averaged 16 miles per gallon during track time!
Unfortunately the only negative of the day came from the only other MINI owner there. I went over to say hi, but when he found out I have an automatic he said something to the effect that I didn't have a real car, and I never talked to him again. Hey, maybe I just wanted paddle shifters. (which are a blast - I did the first two times in auto, less to concentrate on, but that was dumb as you really only use 3 and 4th gear (and 5th on the long straight) and its more fun when shifting. I thought of telling him that real race cars don't have heaters or air conditioners too so his car wasn't real either, but it just goes to show there are a few jerks in every crowd (and yes I know how to drive a manual - I own 2 motorcycles
I encourage everyone with a MINI to give something like this a try. It will show you what your MINI can really do, will make you a better driver, and mostly is TONS of fun (without having to worry about a ticket!)
- John Connor
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Like you said, there are a few jerk in every crowd.
Originally Posted by fred3
sorry to hear the guy with the standard was a jerk. Shifting without a clutch is not truly shifting though. It takes more coordination with a clutch and really is more satisfying.
If he had never bothered to learn (again, disability notwithstanding), I'd probably be on his case too.
2nd Gear
Joined: Aug 2002
Posts: 90
Likes: 0
From: Reston, Virginia, USA
Great post. Thanks.
I'm doing a FATT at the Point in my ZO6 August 19--I did an HPDE with Northern Va Corvette Club at the Jefferson Circuit last month and just had to go back to do the main circuit--and I'll be interested to see if there are any MINIs attending. I'm going to have to take my MINI S out there some day...
Cheers,
Jim
I'm doing a FATT at the Point in my ZO6 August 19--I did an HPDE with Northern Va Corvette Club at the Jefferson Circuit last month and just had to go back to do the main circuit--and I'll be interested to see if there are any MINIs attending. I'm going to have to take my MINI S out there some day...
Cheers,
Jim
6th Gear
Joined: Jun 2004
Posts: 1,522
Likes: 7
From: San Diego, CA
I'll never understand why anyone would care whether or not someone else chooses to drive an automatic instead of a manual transmission car. I've said it before when the MCSa was announced, and I'll say it again, what difference does it make what other people choose to buy?!
I'm glad you had a great time out on the track - isn't that the whole idea?!
And the same goes for people learning or not learning how to drive a stick at all. Some may enjoy driving a manual. They may get more out of it. They may not be able to imagine driving a car without one. But why should anyone else's decision be of any concern to you?
For example, I happen to have a nice, digital SLR camera, and know how to use its manual controls to take good pictures. Other people walk around with totally automatic, point-and-shoot cameras and are happy to snap away. I would be frustrated endlessly trying to use a p/s camera, but they are perfectly adequate for what some people need to get out of a camera. Hey, they aren't taking pictures for me - so why should I care?
I'm glad you had a great time out on the track - isn't that the whole idea?!
And the same goes for people learning or not learning how to drive a stick at all. Some may enjoy driving a manual. They may get more out of it. They may not be able to imagine driving a car without one. But why should anyone else's decision be of any concern to you?
For example, I happen to have a nice, digital SLR camera, and know how to use its manual controls to take good pictures. Other people walk around with totally automatic, point-and-shoot cameras and are happy to snap away. I would be frustrated endlessly trying to use a p/s camera, but they are perfectly adequate for what some people need to get out of a camera. Hey, they aren't taking pictures for me - so why should I care?
Originally Posted by bee1000n
I'll never understand why anyone would care whether or not someone else chooses to drive an automatic instead of a manual transmission car. I've said it before when the MCSa was announced, and I'll say it again, what difference does it make what other people choose to buy?!
I'll tell you why it ultimately affects everyone... because if not enough people buy manuals, manufacturers won't make them (at least in the USA market)... and we will lose the choice. It's already started to happen - manual transmissions are quite uncommon here, and many car models are ONLY available in automatic.
In many cases, not even bothering to learn is pure laziness, in true "couch potato" form. Sure, some people try, but give up in 5 minutes or less because they stall the car. "It's too hard!" they say. Cry me a river, don't be a wimp, EVERYBODY stalls it when they first try.
I'm not annoyed that people who simply CHOOSE automatic. I'm annoyed at the reason why. Is it because they drive in a lot of traffic, or simply because they never bothered to learn manual?
Passive driving is one of the main problems in this country that affects us all. More accidents, more over-the-top "safety" justifications for lower speed limits, excessive speed bumps, speed cameras, speeding fines, etc. One visit to a place to a European country such as Germany is quite an eye-opener. They take a much more serious approach to driving. ACTIVE driving.
[/rant mode]
1st Gear
Joined: Mar 2005
Posts: 23
Likes: 0
From: Mt. Airy, Md.
John nice write up!
John; that was a great write up about your experiences at Summit Point in your MCSa!
I go to watch SCCA events there all the time.
I have done a drivers performance school there in my 90 Miata...it was great fun but a little scary. I'm sure with more time on the track; I would feel much more comfortable.
I am glad you went, because I have often wondered how my 2005 MCSa would behave on the track at Summit Point!
Did you ever over-rev (I mean red-line) it with the paddle shifters during any downshifts?
Did your arms ever get "tied-up" while using the paddles?
How did you deal with the "kick-down" factor that will occur even in the "manual mode"? That is the only characteristic on my MCSa that I don't like.
What gear did you use going into turn 1?
How were the brakes going into turn one after the 110 mph?
What tire pressures (cold) seemed to work the best on the run-flats?
(did you say they were 16" or 17"?)
What part of the track seemed most difficult for you and your Mini?
Please let me know if you think the trans. made good decisions on the track while you were in "auto sport mode". I have been very impressed with the programing while using " auto sport mode" on the street.
Sorry for all the questions, but I am very interested in your Summit Point experiences in a MCSa.
Steve
I go to watch SCCA events there all the time.
I have done a drivers performance school there in my 90 Miata...it was great fun but a little scary. I'm sure with more time on the track; I would feel much more comfortable.
I am glad you went, because I have often wondered how my 2005 MCSa would behave on the track at Summit Point!
Did you ever over-rev (I mean red-line) it with the paddle shifters during any downshifts?
Did your arms ever get "tied-up" while using the paddles?
How did you deal with the "kick-down" factor that will occur even in the "manual mode"? That is the only characteristic on my MCSa that I don't like.
What gear did you use going into turn 1?
How were the brakes going into turn one after the 110 mph?
What tire pressures (cold) seemed to work the best on the run-flats?
(did you say they were 16" or 17"?)
What part of the track seemed most difficult for you and your Mini?
Please let me know if you think the trans. made good decisions on the track while you were in "auto sport mode". I have been very impressed with the programing while using " auto sport mode" on the street.
Sorry for all the questions, but I am very interested in your Summit Point experiences in a MCSa.
Steve
Edge: I 100% agree with you. Its the sheer lack of appreciation for active driing that makes our roads as dangerous as they are today. And we had better not lose manuals in the US. That would make me very mad.
John: I dont mean to disagree with you. I appreciate your write up, but i feel that the man was right. He may not have acted in a mature manner about it, but i have always seen the auto S as a bit of a cop-out on the part of MiniUSA to appeal to the non stick drivers. I preferred it when the S only came in stick. It made it more of an enthuseast's car.
And i also must disagree on your statement about motorcycles. I have ridden motorcycles since i was 2, and by no means does the fact that you can ride a motorcycle mean you can drive a stick. The clutch and shifting mechanics are completley different. Granted, riding a motorcycle helps you learn about the basics using a stick, but it is not a good barometer of actual skill with a stick...
Sorry, but i needed to get that off my chest.
John: I dont mean to disagree with you. I appreciate your write up, but i feel that the man was right. He may not have acted in a mature manner about it, but i have always seen the auto S as a bit of a cop-out on the part of MiniUSA to appeal to the non stick drivers. I preferred it when the S only came in stick. It made it more of an enthuseast's car.
And i also must disagree on your statement about motorcycles. I have ridden motorcycles since i was 2, and by no means does the fact that you can ride a motorcycle mean you can drive a stick. The clutch and shifting mechanics are completley different. Granted, riding a motorcycle helps you learn about the basics using a stick, but it is not a good barometer of actual skill with a stick...
Sorry, but i needed to get that off my chest.
4th Gear
Joined: Jan 2003
Posts: 404
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Hey John,
I will say that the other MINI driver acted poorly in responding to you, we live in a country where we have choice, and your choice to buy and drive an auto is your right period.
I drive and instruct at Summit point and can say that any MINI will be fun to drive on that track, keep learning and have a lot of fun and be safe.
Every time you take your car to the track remind yourself that you drove it there and you need to drive it back home.
I will say that the other MINI driver acted poorly in responding to you, we live in a country where we have choice, and your choice to buy and drive an auto is your right period.
I drive and instruct at Summit point and can say that any MINI will be fun to drive on that track, keep learning and have a lot of fun and be safe.
Every time you take your car to the track remind yourself that you drove it there and you need to drive it back home.
1st Gear
Joined: Mar 2005
Posts: 23
Likes: 0
From: Mt. Airy, Md.
just bee yourself..like bee1000n says
My feelings about manual/auto match bee1000n's...
To the anti-auto members: I do appreciate the right for all those who wish to say what they want....and it makes life more interesting to see everyones views.
In my opinion we all love Mini's here....and we should respect most all the members who drive Mini's.
Sorry to get so personal (but I will if it helps...). I have never purchased an auto. for myself before. My other current cars are all manuals. I bought our MCSa for my wife and I to share, and to have somewhat of a "motoring bonding" experience. My wife has a "bum" leg...so no manuals for her. She was uncertain about the Mini before it was delivered...now I can't get her out of it! I think the MCSa is alot of fun, and I enjoy driving it.
I just think some of you guys "beat-up" on John a little more than necessary. His first post was to share his excitement with a Mini! Isn't that more important than what transmission it runs?
Just my feelings...and I do respect everyones comments and opinions.:smile:
Maybe the manual/auto discussion should take place on another thread...
Steve
To the anti-auto members: I do appreciate the right for all those who wish to say what they want....and it makes life more interesting to see everyones views.
In my opinion we all love Mini's here....and we should respect most all the members who drive Mini's.
Sorry to get so personal (but I will if it helps...). I have never purchased an auto. for myself before. My other current cars are all manuals. I bought our MCSa for my wife and I to share, and to have somewhat of a "motoring bonding" experience. My wife has a "bum" leg...so no manuals for her. She was uncertain about the Mini before it was delivered...now I can't get her out of it! I think the MCSa is alot of fun, and I enjoy driving it.
I just think some of you guys "beat-up" on John a little more than necessary. His first post was to share his excitement with a Mini! Isn't that more important than what transmission it runs?
Just my feelings...and I do respect everyones comments and opinions.:smile:
Maybe the manual/auto discussion should take place on another thread...
Steve
Originally Posted by 1nf3rn0
Edge: I 100% agree with you. Its the sheer lack of appreciation for active driing that makes our roads as dangerous as they are today. And we had better not lose manuals in the US. That would make me very mad.
John: I dont mean to disagree with you. I appreciate your write up, but i feel that the man was right. He may not have acted in a mature manner about it, but i have always seen the auto S as a bit of a cop-out on the part of MiniUSA to appeal to the non stick drivers. I preferred it when the S only came in stick. It made it more of an enthuseast's car.
John: I dont mean to disagree with you. I appreciate your write up, but i feel that the man was right. He may not have acted in a mature manner about it, but i have always seen the auto S as a bit of a cop-out on the part of MiniUSA to appeal to the non stick drivers. I preferred it when the S only came in stick. It made it more of an enthuseast's car.
I appreciate your agreement, but I want to make clear that I wasn't slamming John in any way. He hasn't made clear what his reasons for buying an auto were, but there may be good reasons for it... of course, like others have said, he doesn't really have to justify himself to anyone!
I understand where you're coming from with regards to the auto/manual argument, however I certainly will not be as harsh about it, since I think people can sometimes have good reasons.
4th Gear
Joined: Jul 2005
Posts: 430
Likes: 0
From: From New Lenox, IL., but living in West Lafayette, IN.
I am on the side that the auto is nice option to have. I never really had a chance to learn how to do so until recently. It was ok. I intend to order a MCSa because I like the paddles. That may not make me as cool or l33t as other MINI drivers, but in the end they are all MINIs and we should accept the beauty of each individual MINI even if some parts we don't like. That is what I fell in love with MINI community about. Every time someone orders a MINI and posts here, no matter what everyone is excited to hear it. I grew up with my parents part of Tri-Chevy so I vaguely know how some good people act in the classic car community and that is what I saw here. On the defense of Auto, I fly airplanes as a private pilot and learning to become a professional pilot and I can tell you manual transmission is like sleeping in comparison. In flight if your attenion isn't on 4 completely different things all the time then you put yourself in danger. (note: I don't use auto pilot) Manual tranmission only require 2 thought processes, from my experience. Those extra two though processes (and the third dimension of movement) make things insane at times. So, when I climb out of a real cockpit and start the drive home it is nice just to sit back and cruise. Now I'm not dissing anyone or anything here. All I'm saying is that manual (they both have their time and place) isn't all that, so instead of getting all worked up about whose better for being able to do something just go motor and enjoy having your MINI."Each MINI is a work of personal art and should be treated equally as such. None better or worse than another." -I don't remember where I read this but I recall it was from some MINI board
Coordinator :: River City Minis
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 915
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Little off topic .. even though the opinion of Auto or not.. is just that an Opinion and has nothing to do with facts. But JimVa your doing FATT on AUG 19th. Great i might see you up there.. Im ordering new Brake pads and Fluid. if i get them and installed. Im thinking about doing a FATT. Simply because of this write up. Who knows i Might see you up there.
Originally Posted by Deuce Coupe Effect
Manual tranmission only require 2 thought processes, from my experience. Those extra two though processes (and the third dimension of movement) make things insane at times.
Remember when you first learned to ride a bicycle? A lot of energy and concern was spent on making sure you didn't fall over, right? The wobbly steering input, concerns about being able to get moving, being able to stop properly, etc.
Now compare with riding a bike today, as you are experienced. How much thought do you put into keeping the bike upright? You don't, do you? You just rely on the good ole' centripetal forces to keep the bike up.
THAT'S how it is for an experienced manual driver - second nature, no extra thought needed... but a heck of a lot more fun, simply because you have additional control over what your car is doing, and when.
I think comparing it to flying a plane, with the 3rd dimension (vertical), wind and weather conditions, other plane traffic (without lanes!), and taking off and landing, all with MANY MANY more controls to deal with... is a very bad comparative example.
2nd Gear
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 126
Likes: 0
Originally Posted by Bikeguy57
So if I order my new M3 with a SMG will you guys call me a "Nancy boy"? Only kidding, I can't afford an M3. 
I know It's called a "manual" but it dosn't have a clutch does it ?
I know It's called a "manual" but it dosn't have a clutch does it ?
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2nd Gear
Joined: May 2005
Posts: 75
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Steve, your replies
John; that was a great write up about your experiences at Summit Point in your MCSa!
Did you ever over-rev (I mean red-line) it with the paddle shifters during any downshifts?: I don't THINK so, I might have. I've been driving motorcycles for years, so I'm good at sequential shifting. That being said, I did drive darn close to the red line the whole time, so I might have a bit
Did your arms ever get "tied-up" while using the paddles?: Not really as most of the shift points are on straights.
How did you deal with the "kick-down" factor that will occur even in the "manual mode"? That is the only characteristic on my MCSa that I don't like.: The "kick down" is DAMN dangerous, I have no idea why it exists. There is a good enough "bump" before going into it, and I have gotten good at not doing it. That being said on the track your learing good throttle control, so you never just "floor it" anyway. So not at all to answer the question.
What gear did you use going into turn 1?: 3rd, and never felt I needed to shift down. Remember it's an outgoing radius curve (gets bigger slowly) so you acclerate nice and easy out of it.
How were the brakes going into turn one after the 110 mph?: Just fine. Being my first time the instructors due tend to have you break on the early side (though there were plently of times when they told me to go faster or not brake!) I could definately break later and heavier, which I will work on next time. For a once in a while thing you do not need better breaks. And the runs are 20 min each, not enough to overheat the breaks. Actually the heavest breaking is before the carousel, and the breaks did great.
What tire pressures (cold) seemed to work the best on the run-flats?
(did you say they were 16" or 17"?): 17", whatever the stock recommended pressure is what I set them at (can't remember off the top of my head). I'm sure I can do much better in the ways of pressures and better tires, but that will come in time.
What part of the track seemed most difficult for you and your Mini?: Learing to go through turn 3 (that little kink) without breaking took me a while (just to scared to!), because you are flying over a blind hill! The Mini really had no problem areas, that's what is so great about the car!
Please let me know if you think the trans. made good decisions on the track while you were in "auto sport mode". I have been very impressed with the programing while using " auto sport mode" on the street.: I hate the sport mode on the street. the few times I ever use auto on the street (eating ice cream while driving - I know, bad driving) I use regular auto. That being said, the sport mode was GREAT on the track. I never really noticed the gears it picked much, which means it was doing a good job. I really think it's only meant for high performance driving.
Sorry for all the questions, but I am very interested in your Summit Point experiences in a MCSa.: No problem
- John
John; that was a great write up about your experiences at Summit Point in your MCSa!
Did you ever over-rev (I mean red-line) it with the paddle shifters during any downshifts?: I don't THINK so, I might have. I've been driving motorcycles for years, so I'm good at sequential shifting. That being said, I did drive darn close to the red line the whole time, so I might have a bit
Did your arms ever get "tied-up" while using the paddles?: Not really as most of the shift points are on straights.
How did you deal with the "kick-down" factor that will occur even in the "manual mode"? That is the only characteristic on my MCSa that I don't like.: The "kick down" is DAMN dangerous, I have no idea why it exists. There is a good enough "bump" before going into it, and I have gotten good at not doing it. That being said on the track your learing good throttle control, so you never just "floor it" anyway. So not at all to answer the question.
What gear did you use going into turn 1?: 3rd, and never felt I needed to shift down. Remember it's an outgoing radius curve (gets bigger slowly) so you acclerate nice and easy out of it.
How were the brakes going into turn one after the 110 mph?: Just fine. Being my first time the instructors due tend to have you break on the early side (though there were plently of times when they told me to go faster or not brake!) I could definately break later and heavier, which I will work on next time. For a once in a while thing you do not need better breaks. And the runs are 20 min each, not enough to overheat the breaks. Actually the heavest breaking is before the carousel, and the breaks did great.
What tire pressures (cold) seemed to work the best on the run-flats?
(did you say they were 16" or 17"?): 17", whatever the stock recommended pressure is what I set them at (can't remember off the top of my head). I'm sure I can do much better in the ways of pressures and better tires, but that will come in time.
What part of the track seemed most difficult for you and your Mini?: Learing to go through turn 3 (that little kink) without breaking took me a while (just to scared to!), because you are flying over a blind hill! The Mini really had no problem areas, that's what is so great about the car!
Please let me know if you think the trans. made good decisions on the track while you were in "auto sport mode". I have been very impressed with the programing while using " auto sport mode" on the street.: I hate the sport mode on the street. the few times I ever use auto on the street (eating ice cream while driving - I know, bad driving) I use regular auto. That being said, the sport mode was GREAT on the track. I never really noticed the gears it picked much, which means it was doing a good job. I really think it's only meant for high performance driving.
Sorry for all the questions, but I am very interested in your Summit Point experiences in a MCSa.: No problem
- John
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2nd Gear
Joined: May 2005
Posts: 75
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Originally Posted by Edge
Inferno,
I appreciate your agreement, but I want to make clear that I wasn't slamming John in any way. He hasn't made clear what his reasons for buying an auto were, but there may be good reasons for it... of course, like others have said, he doesn't really have to justify himself to anyone!
I understand where you're coming from with regards to the auto/manual argument, however I certainly will not be as harsh about it, since I think people can sometimes have good reasons.
I appreciate your agreement, but I want to make clear that I wasn't slamming John in any way. He hasn't made clear what his reasons for buying an auto were, but there may be good reasons for it... of course, like others have said, he doesn't really have to justify himself to anyone!
I understand where you're coming from with regards to the auto/manual argument, however I certainly will not be as harsh about it, since I think people can sometimes have good reasons.
By the way I disagree with the comment on driving a motorcycle is not like driving a manual car. Yes, what limbs you use are different, and sequential vs non-sequential shifting is different, but learing how to properly let out a clutch and give power smoothly is the same.
- John Connor
Originally Posted by asterix2112
I bought the auto because I wanted to! Really I have always been a big Champ Car and F1 fan and always wanted to have a clutchless, paddle shifted manual (ok, yes I know the MCSa is not a real clutchless manual, so no flames), but you used to only be able to get it on $100k+ supercars. Now you can get it on a Mini, and I just wanted to have the experience of one. And by the way, I LOVE it. (and I have owned 5 manual transmission cars in my 20 years of driving by the way)
My concerns listed above were clearly not targeted at you specifically, I was just discussing the whole manual/auto issue, particularly those who never bothered to learn.
Originally Posted by asterix2112
By the way I disagree with the comment on driving a motorcycle is not like driving a manual car. Yes, what limbs you use are different, and sequential vs non-sequential shifting is different, but learing how to properly let out a clutch and give power smoothly is the same.