Ok, I've tried to explain what little I know of this transmission to friends and have obviously done a poor job at it.

Is there any website with diagrams or anything of the sort to help me get this all sorted in my head?

I'm not totally lost on engines, but this CVT is alien to anyone I describe it to.

 

I got a few answers on my own at: http://cvt.com.sapo.pt/toc_en.htm

 

every hear of google man?
here's a quick link i found for ya.

http://www.ebroadcast.com.au/ecars/A.hints/CVT.html

 

Yes, That is where I found the first one.

 

Even if you manage to explain what a CVT transmission is all about, most people will still give you a blank stare.

Its fun!

 

Yes, no matter how long and accurate I think I am in explaining the CVT, fellow passengers just look at me as if they want to say, "Ya, that's nice, but I don't get it." So now, I just tell them about it and leave that subject be. If they don't get it, I guess I can't make them understand. At least I and the rest of MCO understand the CVT.

 

The best way to explain the wonderful CVT in the MINI is to take them for a spin! I did this with a co-worker of mine (He has a new 350Z) and he was totally amazed!

 

Is that the roadster Z?

That car is hot, my friend has one.