Ian C.

Ars Technica: “a big wing and no back seats”

Posted on January 18, 2021 by Ian C.

Another article test driving the new 2021 GP …

“… Aerodynamics has obviously been a design concern—witness the bigger front lip spoiler and that massive double-element affair at the back. And up front there are extra scoops and ducts to get more fresh, cold air to the big front brakes … feels faster than a 0-62mph (0-100km/h) time of 5.2 seconds suggests, although to make the most of the engine, you’ll want the transmission in S … just driving on the street, this one feels like overkill.“

Read the full article here – and note the original article title “bonkers but too little fun”!

Carscoops less impressed with 2020 GP!

Posted on September 17, 2020 by Ian C.

Another article about the newest GP at Carscoops is not particularly positive; it links to a Carfection video review, and about it Carscoops states “… while the flagship MINI sounds good on paper, is it actually any good to drive? It certainly doesn’t seem like it … the British [journalist] says the car feels unresolved. It has lots of power and straight-line go but it is unrefined and falls down where hot hatches should shine; in the corners. The steering is heavy and the handling characteristics are inconsistent …”

The Carfection video:

2021 GP First Drive Review

Posted on July 25, 2020 by Ian C.

Head over to Autoblog to check out their opinions.

“Even with a reused powertrain and no manual transmission option, the new 2021 Mini John Cooper Works GP delivers the raw, entertaining driving experience you would expect … nearly 800 pounds less than the next-lightest Clubman JCW with the same engine … if you’re not keeping a firm grasp of the wheel, your steering could be all over the place, too. Plant your foot and the wheel starts wriggling as torque steer rears its head. It’s uncouth, uncivilized, but also kind of fun … practically non-existent body roll is and incredible grip … the driver is bounced and tossed over pebbles and hairline cracks … starts at $45,750”

2021 GP

Posted on June 22, 2020 by Ian C.

I don’t really take notice of MINI now, though I still have friends that drive them – I do see the next GP is now up for pre-order at $44,900 in USA (a lot more expensive than the original GP, but not so much higher than the second generation). I see also that it’s planned to make 3,000 rather than the previous 2,000; so they won’t be so unique this time …