>>>>The MCS is pretty tough to launch. First gear is equivalent to 3rd on a normal car so you just have to let the clutch burn and burn after giving the engine a big head start. It launches OK once you're used to it but it's vastly different from any other car I have ever driven. Jeez, if I kicked the gas pedal to the floor and waited a second before gently beginning to engage the clutch on the old Honda, I can't even imagine what would happen. Probably rip the engine right out of the car and then run over it.
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>>How pathetic is it that with six gears, they can't get one to launch you in first?
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I've found that I do need to have the rpms up a bit as I start to engage the clutch, but not that much. If, I feed more gas *as* I let the cluth out (feathering it slightly), I can get pretty good starts. Its a balancing act.

 

The best cure for the slug-like launch is 16" SSR Comps with Yoko AVS ES100's. Lost 17 lbs per corner compared to the 17" S-Lites w/runflats. Opening up the breathing with a Madness intake and a Magnaflow has also helped. Plus I have finally learned how to coordinate the gas and clutch to reduce wheel spin. Done right, you can get a pretty good hole shot.

 

In my part of the country, northern California, we are blessed with quite a few Mini's of both stripes. Got into another little driving match today with a saucy little yellow Cooper and a copper colored Carrera. Guy in the Cooper knew how to drive pretty well, but couldn't quite keep up with the S or the Porsche in the straights or turns.

The Cooper is such a cute car!, kinda slow though :smile:

PS - The Carrera easily ate both our lunches. Played around with us for awhile then just zipped over the horizon............