Adrenaline Rush in A Small Package

As an automotive enthusiast that praises and appreciates a perfectly balanced car that would deliver perfect and poised handling with adequate and or endless power, i was rather skeptical that the Mini Cooper S would be able to deliver all of that in such a well.. mini package.

All Mini advertisements promises something different and out-of-the-box experience that would bring more than just a smile to the driver's face and i must say Mini did it right with the Cooper S.


First Impression:

The exterior of the '50th Anniversary Mayfair Edition' Mini Cooper S adds a not so subtle twin stripe, bumper mounted fog-lights that works as a high-beam, 17-inch wheels, Mayfair badge on the fenders, a 50th Anniversary badge on the front left bumper and other little accessories to differentiate it from other Mini's.



The Mayfair edition Mini combines retro-styling with a touch of elegance that makes the car suitable and subtle enough for you to drive around town without looking like Elton John in bright yellow trousers. But enough to attract attention of other motorists and pedestrians.





Enter the car, and the dark brown, coffee colored interior blends in well with the car. Despite the fact that the speedometer is in the middle that looks like someone put a giant clock just for fun, it all seems in place and unique. Yes the interior is small but it doesn't make you feel cramped, with enough head and leg room for the front passengers and just enough space for two slim (and short) adults in the rear.







Driving Impression:

Driving around town the car is nimble with plenty of low-end torque that can be a handful at times. The stiff suspension is tolerable for normal driving but how i see it, this car is not to be driven normally. The turbo kicks-in early with plenty of low and mid-end power that will surprise you. Driving the car on the freeway / toll road is stable and poised with minimum body roll during aggressive driving.



Put it in 'Sport' mode and its FUN FUN FUN. The car will come alive, with a sporty exhaust note that will want to make you step harder on the gas pedal. Sharp steering with road-hugging cornering abilities will make Porsche drivers envious and equipped with a list of driver-aids to keep the car sure-footed, will make you feel even more confident.



Bottom Line Factor:

Drive it around town, take it on the freeway or back country roads, pick up your date, bring your friends, it will impress everyone who believes in the pure joy of motoring. An adrenaline rush in a small package, the Mini Cooper S is a car that will provide fun in a playful manner. Lets Motor!
 

Specifications:

• Engine: 1598cc DOHC four-cylinder (16 valve)
• Power: 128kW @ 5500rpm
• Torque: 260Nm @ 1700-4500rpm (Overboost)
• Induction: Multipoint & Turbocharged
• Transmission: Six-speed manual
• Driven Wheels: Front
• Brakes: 294mm Disc (F) / 259mm Disc (R)
• Top Speed: 225km/h (Claimed)
• 0-100km/h: 7.1 seconds
• CO2 Emissions: 164g/km
• Fuel Consumption: 6.9L/100km (ADR)
• Fuel Consumption: 8.5L/100km (As Tested)
• Fuel Tank Capacity: 50L
• Fuel Type: 95-98RON Premium Unleaded
• ANCAP Rating: Five-star
• Airbags: Front, Side & Curtain
• Safety: ABS with CBC, EBA & EBD; ESC with HSA & Traction Control
• Spare Wheel: N/A
• Suspension: Strut (F) / Strut (R)
• Ground Clearance: 130mm
• Cargo Capacity: 160/680L
• Tow Capacity: N/A
• Turning Circle: 10.7m
• Weight: 1130kg (Tare)
• Wheels: Alloy 17-inch