Hello all,
I'm new here and just bought a 2003 Mini. I dirve a Jeep Wrangler as of right now so it will be big change I'm sure or little ha ha. I have so many questions about the car and this looks to be the place for anwsers. I didn't buy the S for a couple of reasons, 1. the one year waiting list and 2. the insurance. So my first question is does the 115 HP Mini get around ok? Or does it lag when it comes to going up hills.
Has anyone driven in the snow and how does it do? I will ask you all more questions when they come to mind but as of right now I have 2 weeks to go and then I can start motoring. 2 weeks form hell, Time can be so cruel.

 

115 bhp is just fine ... you sometimes have to remember to use the gearbox, though; if you want to pass something or climb a hill, just downshift and step on it! (and hold on ...).
Welcome to MCO and have fun with your new toy!

 

This IS your first post! Welcome. Also, the 115 was fine during a test drive. Since I have not yet received mine either and the wait is grueling. As with most front wheel drive cars, you should have no problems. I drove a CRX Si for 15 winters and it was great. Plus it only had 91 HP stock (before some upgrades).

I do remember one time I was eyeballing a McDonalds off an exit during a night long snowy journey to Showshoe to ski. When I got off the exit, me and my wife noticed that it was across this big parking lot. So, off we go across and hit 6 inches of snow. Kinda raised the car off the ground. BUT, it did do great in less than 4 inches. The MINI should to.

 

I was really concerned about the same things you mention, before I bought my MC. I thought 115hp? Compared to 163? hmm....will it pass a semi-truck on the highway? I was more than impressed when I drove it home for the first time. (I only test drove it on 35mph roads) This baby got up and go'ed. I am still impressed with how much power this thing shows with only 115 hp. Don't let the numbers fool you. The car is small, weighs little, and performs excellent. I get a little nervous about having the chance to drive an "S" after I have been in the standard cooper. One day, I will have the opportunity to drive someone's S, and when I do, it'll make my MC feel very sluggish. But, you have to remember that the MC is not bought because it goes fast, even though it won't hesistate to lay down some tracks at the stoplight, but it's bought because it is such a cool car. This thing handles corners like no other on the market.

Rest easy my friend...you will never love a car like you will love the MINI.

 

Welcome Yellow!

Lots of threads on MCO about driving a MINI in the snow. Here's one to start...

 

Welcome yellowdesmo...countdown the days. It's good to start with the Cooper, win the lottery and then treat yourself to the S...of course you've gotta play to win! :smile:

 

Hello and welcome!
I went from a Wrangler to a Cooper as well, and let me say, I dont miss my Jeep. I loved my Jeep, and having the soft top was great, but, I love the MINI so much more. I have the big sunroof, so I dont miss the convertible, the MINI gets better mileage, is a great performer, decent power and isnt bad in snow either. I also feel that the interior space on the jeep wasnt much different really from the MINI.

Matt

 

Greetings Yellow:

I'm coming from a '98 Wrangler, Soft Top, and am anxiously awaiting delivery of my MCS in April. I thought I was special, toolin' around in the Wrangler, for years. All the other jeepers, of course give the peace sign or a wave. Once I drove the MCS in September, my obsession from jeeps transferred to the MINI. You'll have a ball with your MINI.

Hey...come to think of it....I didn't get any anwers to my questions (or did I?) about the existence of a 'universal' salutation amongs MINI owners on the road. Is it a thumbs up? Blinking of headlights? What???????? :smile:

 

>>Hey...come to think of it....I didn't get any anwers to my questions (or did I?) about the existence of a 'universal' salutation amongs MINI owners on the road. Is it a thumbs up? Blinking of headlights? What???????? :smile:

I don't know, I just can't get this out of my mind as a universal greeting...

 

I think that's REALLY appropriate...but...kinda hard to see when driving. It could look like your doing somethin' with your nose!?! There was a post on this ages ago...I don't know if the MINI world has yet to come up with a salutation. I think I'll launch a new post on this. :smile:

 

Thank you all for the warm welcome. I really look forward to talking to you some more.

 

So Yellow,

Now that you have your MC, what do you think of it? Not such a "lagger" eh?

 

Meenee,
I don't have it yet. I have about a week to go. One long week. I don't know if I can take it.

 

Your MINI is equipped just like mine. Except color. You'll love it. I'm 52, and have had many cars throughout the years...from an MGB in college, several VW Bugs, Volvos, BMWs, many American cars. I am more impressed with the MINI than anything I've had. It's unique and an attention grabber. Unless you really have a 'lead foot', you'll be more than pleased with the 115 HP.
Enjoy the car. You'll love it!!