Hey guys.
fairly new to minis here. Purchased an R55s and really like it. Got her pretty dialed in as far as MX is concerned, but have a question regarding acceleration really.
I keep hearing how fast these lil turbo cars are, but when I drive mine it is sporty at best. I would equate it to a standard modern sedan. Granted, I drive fairly quick cars generally and haven't driven a “normal” car in quite some time. Maybe I am just used to quicker rides?? Hell, I think my 6.7 F350 dually would walk this thing!
Is there a way to see if the turbo is working correctly? An easy way...I don't wanna rig in a boost gauge et all. There are no codes, and I have checked with a mini specific obd2 reader and nothing at all. She drives perfectly. I never once have heard any signs of boost...are we supposed to? Granted, she is all stock and an auto.
Thanks for any insight here.
Troy

 

I would think the best way to determine if the turbo is operating as expected, is to get some kind of boost gauge. If you have an OBD transmitter, you can use an OBD app, like DashCommand, to monitor the boost. I have a dedicated mechanical boost gauge installed. IMO, works better than the OBD apps.

 

I've owned 6 or so Turbo cars and it is pretty obvious when the Turbo kicks in. Don't need a gauge for that. It just kicks in and the butt dyno tells you.

The sad part is when an EV leaves you in the dust because that is what they do.

 

So ur saying there is plenty of turbo lag that I should be feeling? It is far from obvious when it spools up to me! If the turbo is not spooling, wouldn't some codes be thrown?
can u hear a stock turbo?
Troy

 

There is very little turbo lag, boost should start around 1800rpm or so if load is determined. So low to medium range power should feel nice. The top end, stock, runs out of steam due to limited max boost and the catalytic converter. Want more? Tune and supporting mods are the answer.