I've owned several early Cooper S's, inc a vintage legal racer and a 03 bmw mini S. All had their attributes in the twisties, embarrassing far faster machinery. But that was most likely driving ability as a big factor. Their diminutive size allows the driver to really use the road to a big advantage over other cars.
Done the Iron Bottom Motoring "tour" several times in my friend's rhd 67 Cooper S. Its more fun, if limited in top speed, than my 914-6 on this event < yeah, the 6 is like taking an Uzi to a knife fight. You always feel like david vs goliath in a mini .
They are very capable little cars , that despite the Lucas Prince of Darkness aspect, was one of the best designs to come out of GB way back.
Comparing it to modern cars is not fair, even if it can whup a bunch of them. Witness the wins in the Monte Carlo Rally over Porsche and other much faster cars in the sixties.
Its always some of a love -hate thing with the mini as well. 3 main bearings, center two pistons in sync/ outer two pistons in sync= makes for some grunt (relatively speaking
) off the turns, everything wears out with hard use, overheats without warning, and in need of upkeep . But huge grins when you can put together some mountain passes
Have your fun whipping up others here in a frenzy. I am secure with my choice of cars and what i can do with them
