Ever since BMW took over the Mini brand just over a decade ago, sales have been very strong. Next time you are driving about, especially in urban areas, have a look for these tiny packages of ''fun on four wheels''-- they are everywhere. Not content to sell the ''new Mini'' in its traditional three-door hatch configuration, BMW has stretched into a convertible, a wagon called Clubman and even a compact crossover called Countryman. 2012 ushers in the next stage of Mini evolution with this two-seater coupe, along with a two-seater roadster; basically a convertible version of the coupe. This Coupe is a sportier, sleeker take on the original three-door design with only two seats, a cropped roof and is lighter in weight.
The Skin
Taking an already short car and turning it into a sleeker coupe design must have been a challenge for the designers. The front windshield has been placed at a steeper angle, the back hatch is no longer square and the rear pillars are wrapped in glass to provide an almost floating roof. Speaking of the roof, it is substantially lower than the regular model and the rear section intrudes on rear visibility. It is easy to say that this Coupe version is a about compromises on behalf of design and the owner. The design limits the outward visibility and cargo capacity and the owner has to be able to live with the confined dimensions in order to be seen in such an eye-catching car. As with all other model, there is a base model called Cooper, then the higher horsepower model called S and even an ultra high-performance model called John Cooper works.
Stephen Smith 6:14 AM on October 9, 2012 Hi Zack How are you doing? I am very stuck on an issue. (excuse the punn.) In the past, I had an Audi Quattro, Benz 4matic, etc. I now have a 2008 Cooper S, FWD. (summer tires 17'') (winter tire size 195/55/16.) I can not find a store, who is honest about which tires, I should use for the Winter on the Cooper. They all push their own brands, or where ever they can make the most profit. I had the DUNLOPS which were sold to me from BMW. My wheels were spinning all time, and I did not feel secure with the tires. Can you tell me which Winter tire brand and model, that I should purchase as? Studded or noStuds. I live in Montreal, and to top it off, my driveway is on a downward slant, so, I need all the help that I can get. p.s. I am willing to go with NON-Runflat if there is a better model of tire for me, and perhaps I should go to 185/55/16 too. Thanks for all fo your help. I appreciate it, and enjoy your winter. Stephen Smith
Motormouth.ca says: 10:47 AM on October 13, 2012 If you go to a non-runflat tire you open up a bunch of options. This might require that you keep a spare wheel in the trunk or rely on roadside assistance if you should get a flat tire. Maybe only put a spare wheel in the trunk if you are going out of town. Once you have a better selection have a look at TireRack.com to do some research and then shop locally. I am doing promo work for Toyo Tires and they have a great winter tire for higher performance cars called the Garit KX. OK Tire sells this product.
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