Since fast is fun, and fun isn't allowed on public roads, I would like to look into doing alittle auto crossing. But here is the problem, will a CVT Cooper have anychance at running with other cars in the division I'll be in? Also, what all would I need to do it besides a helmet?

 

I ran my MC in my first autocross in 25 years the other day. I have a 5 spd and ran about a second faster than another guy's CVT on a rain-slick course. It was his first autocross, too. It was a blast pushing the car to my limits. A good driver could have done a lot better, I'm sure. I was in the middle of the pack for my PAX time (universal handicap system). I'm planning to go to a autocross school in March and see if I can improve.

If you want to have a blast, just go out and try to improve your own times and don't worry about being competitive at first. It was the best $20 I've spent in a long time. They even supplied the helmet. You just need a driver's license and the entry fee. Go for it.

 

Just Do It. Your not gonna care how you do against anyone else. You're gonna have smile on your face all day (even after you get home). You'll find its more about improving you own times against yourself, them going against others. After my first one, I was hooked and ran out and bought my own helmet. Alot of places will have loaners for you, so you can check it out and make sure it's something you like before you buy one.

 

Having done 2 autocrosses in my life, both in my MINI, so logically, I'm now an expert.

Yes, try it, and I agree: don't worry about being competitive against other drivers. There is much to learn for you, and how to drive YOUR car on the course. Just focus on lowering your time with each run. Most times, you get at least 4 runs in a day, with some practice "fun runs" afterwards, if there's enough time.

You can even have an instructor ride shotgun with you during your runs, to give you pointers.

Again, the first few times you do this, you won't be extremely competitive. Just accept that early, and go out there and learn, and have fun.

By the way, be aware that the biggest limiter to your car's performance (besides yourself), is going to be the tires. If you run your stock tires, you won't have any chance competing with other cars in your class, who have likely upgraded to stickier rubber. You'll see most people changing tires in the pits, taking off their daily street sneakers, in favor of more aggressive sticky tires.

If you use your stock tires, you will SIGNIFICANTLY wear them down, especially the front ones. After only two autocrosses last summer, my front tires are now in need of replacing. All that wear wasn't just from the autocrossing, but it did really shorten their lifespan.

As for safety, they make you remove all loose items in your car, (radar detectors, iPods, change jar, floor mats, anything in your trunk, etc. They do a loose tech-inspection on your car, and then if you don't have an approved helmet, you can use one of their loaners for free.

Let us know how you do!

 

I suggest doing it for fun, not competition. This season I plan on taking the Classic to AutoX. With about 50hp, I pretty much plan on being last. I can't wait to get the little guy on a track, but since I can't take the Classic on the big tracks, I figure I will have some fun in AutoX. Besides, I am taking my MCS to 4-5 track days this year.

 

I would suggest posting in the Solo2 forum (autocrossing).

https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...splay.php?f=51

 

My daughter runs her CVT Cabrio, WITH hand controls (she's paralyzed), and she won her class last year. But I agree--do it for the sport and the knowledge you'll gain, and don't worry about the competition.

 

Autocrossing is great in a MINI. If you have events in your area then go for it. SCCA and BMWCCA both sponsor events throughout the year.

MC cabrio with CVT and Holey rims and 205/50-15 Michelin Pilot Sport Cup (came in first in H-stock class that day)

The MC or MCS is fine for any stock class. In SCCA the MC competes in H-stock the most basic of classes for 4 door street sedans that have modest power. Transmission doesn't matter. CVT with an MC does very well if you drive well either using Sport mode or full manual controls for the gears. MCS goes into G-stock and does very well too. Both have sizable handicaps that allow for top finishes once you learn how to drive well.

With Stock classes you are allowed:
Any Cat back exhaust upgrade
Any front swaybar upgrade (not needed for the MINI)
Any drop in air filter that fits in the stock airbox
Any sparkplugs
Any stock sized shocks
Any brake pads or brake fluid using stock brake calipers
Any suspension alignment using exhisting parts
Any DOT approved tire that fits on the stock sized rim including Competition R compound tires (not for street use)
Only standard grades of gasoline up to premium.

Use a closed or open faced helmet rated SA or M 95, 2000 or 2005.
Use closed toe shoes.

For stock classes you cannot exceed the rules on adding modifications-
Common illegal mods:
Short shift kit
Aftermarket shift ****
Aftermarket Header
Any aftermarket air intake
Any modded brake rotor
Any extra dash gauge
Any non stock sized rim
Any added rally lights
Any body kits
Any aftermarket spoiler

Modded MINIs will compete in their respective modified classes depending on the mods added. Street Prepared, Street Touring, Street Modified, and

MC can use 15x5.5 or 16x6.5 rims only
MCS can use 16x6.5 or 17x7 rims only
Wheel offset must be within 0.25" plus or minus from stock +48mm.

What you are trying to do in autocross is to learn how to drive faster, with less effort and with more control of what you are doing. When you make mistakes it is a very safe environment and you can learn how to make adjustments as you gain experience.

Since the MINI is very capable you can drive it in autocross without changing anything from stock. Just remove the floor mats, wheel caps/covers if rubber, the toolkit or spare tire (to save weight) if available.

Only factory installed options are allowed in stock class. Many dealer installed options are not legal in stock class.


MCS in Street Modified class with right rear wheel up.

 

I've autocrossed for many years. Most of that time I was in a much heavier FWD vehicle than the MINI, and on OEM tires. Tire wear is NOT a problem if prior to the event you inflate your tires to at least 40 PSI so that you're not rolling over onto the side walls. After autocrossing, remember to reset your tire pressures before driving home.

CVT shouldn't be a problem at all. First, the MINI is an over-dog in the Stock classes. Second, as a beginner (not just you, any beginner), you'll have way too much to think about to be concerned with shifting. So just go ahead and try it. WARNING: Autocross is addictive!

 

Those 2 are legal under comfort and convenience.