When Alec Issigonis first designed the Mini, he had in mind to create a simple design vehicle for the purpose of transporting people from A to B as cheaply and easily as possible. Little did he know that his little economical shoe-box of a car would become an icon of automotive history.The production of the Austin Mini already began in 1959, and although the manufacturer of the little car changed name more than once, the basic same vehicle - with few changes - was produced for over 40 years! The Mini derived from the original Austin Mini Seven concept. Minis especially prepped by Cooper Racing went on to win every major Rally in the world (at least once, but often for repeat performances) during the 1960s, making such an impact that the cute little car became commonly known as the Mini Cooper all over the world. Despite their compact size the Minis established in the world of Motorsport a reputation as the "Giant Killers," and giant killers they were, often turning in faster lap times at Brands Hatch than the big Fords, or out-running much more powerful Citroens during the Rally Monte Carlo . The secret to their Motorsport success is easily found. Of lightweight construction, with a low center of gravity and excellent, go-kart style maneuverability, Minis can drive circles around almost anything else out there on the road.Citizens and celebrities alike fell in love with the little cars, and they soon were seen everywhere. Literally, they were being driven down stairways and through shopping centers in select movies. The base model became the car of choice for British television comic character Mr. Bean, and the newest version of the heavily face-lifted MINI, now manufactured by BMW, stars in the latest Austin Powers movie "GOLDMEMBER". It seemed that everyone who came in contact with the little car got infected and simply fell in love with it, and why shouldn t they?After all, how many cars are less than 5 feet wide, 10 feet long, seat 4-5 adults, and have the potential to outperform much bigger and more powerful cars? Even drivers like myself with a 6 5" frame fit easily and sit surprisingly comfortable in this car thanks to recently redone reclining front seats, and that not only on short distance commutes. Inside our Mini the driving experience becomes all business! Once seated, a simple 2-gauge cluster is located right in front of you, atop the typical open tray design dashboard, that all Minis have become well known for. The gauges contain the speedometer to the right, next to the fuel and water temperature gauge combination instrument that also houses control lights to inform about the charge status and the oil pressure. Controls include two levers on the steering column that activate wipers, horn, signals, and high beam. A switch assembly below the center of the dashboard houses the main light switch as well as miscellaneous accessory switches and the heater controls. The matching rear bench seat is easily accessible by tilting forward either front seat to grant access to passengers for the back row. While kids and small adults will feel right at home in the back, taller passenger may feel somehow in a tight spot back there.Anyone s first impression when seeing this car is to think small, but once you have taken a look inside you will have to reconsider, as the Mini Clubman comes literally with a huge advantage over any regular size Mini Cooper.Accessible through 2 barn style doors in the back you will find an abundance of storage space in addition to the already amazing seating capacity. The trunk area behind the rear seat converts in no time to match the capacity of a small delivery van, suggesting the use for anything from an extended vacation-trip-mobil to commercial use in your local delivery service. The latter most likely with huge impact on recognizabilty and free advertising for your business. No matter how you use this little space wonder, it is big enough for many purposes, and if it is merely to provide room for the ENTIRE family. Despite the vintage of its design, the overall driving experience is still hard to top. The car has satisfactory acceleration potential for its size, and is easily shifted through the gears. It corners superbly, unlike anything you might have experienced before and the brakes provide sufficient stopping power to slow down the Clubman. This type of effortless handling is what a Mini is all about and it will surely put a big smile also on your face. Size does matter after all . . . The Mini Clubman is equipped with the 998cc engine, which cranks out nearly 40 hp, providing this compact wagon with enough power to get you around town famously. Freeway traffic poses no challenge to the little car either, as speeds even in excess of 120km/h (75mph) are achievable.Regardless of where you go it is almost for certain that people will point out the car to friends, also putting a smile on everyone else s face, I guarantee it ! Cars in traffic actually change lanes to get a better look at this one, so make sure you are up to it. Be warned! If you are a low profile type of person, the Mini may just not be the car for you!While 40 hp might not sound like an abundance of power, it is still absolutely amazing how much fun the little car is able to generate when driven, while fuel consumption is still kept in moderation, as originally intended by the designer. With fuel prices at record heights you will certainly appreciate this feature most when driving up to the pump at the gas station.So how thrifty is this little critter? Depending on your driving style, consumption between 40 and 45 miles to the gallon should be achievable. Spend $12 bucks on gas per week, drive as much as you like, almost like 30 years ago!Just like Chevy s legendary small block, the 4 cylinder heart beating under the hood is a creation that was designed more than 40 years ago. Constantly improved upon over the years, it is bulletproof and destined to live forever. Just imagine cutting your gas bill (and parking space problems as well) to less than half, while driving such fun car. Since the original Mini is no longer produced these cars retain their value remarkable well and have certainly a realistic appreciation potential. &-
Big Al s Mini Mover is Wainfleet-based company (Ontario, Canada) with a phone number 9058993770. Our data show that the company is located at the address: 57 Lakeshore Rd. The company has a web site: www.big-al-minimover.com.
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