Classic Mini Madness

Mini Monstrosity - Mini Countryman

2010-09-03T14:13:00.003Z

Check out the rather large Mini Countryman. Terrible!

Whats that Coming over the hill? That is NOT a mini. It's a monster!

"A new Mini will hit the road later this month - one that has moved miles away from the marque's roots and seems to defy much of the logic of the tiny original."

Picture Courtesy of the BBC.

STIG Book - Ben Collins Autobiography

2010-09-02T12:51:00.007Z

The BBC lost their fight with the publisher of the new Ben Collins' autobiography, or the STIG as he is better known.

Stig's book 'The Man in the White Suit' is available from £17 on Amazon preorder - sure to be a great seller this Christmas, and would make a great gift for Dads :)

Italian Job Drive in Movie at Alexandra Palace

2010-08-03T16:50:00.002Z

I have just come across a rather cool event - RAC Drive-In Movies.What could be cooler than heading to Alexandra Palaced in a Convoy of Mini's and watching the Italian Job as a Drive in Movie?

* Tickets cost £15 for RAC Members and £30 for non-members.
* One ticket permits one car and includes two free portions of popcorn and two free drinks per car.
* RAC Members will also get two £10 vouchers to redeem for food and drink (burgers, a side and a soft drink).

Weston Park, Thursday 5th August
Alexandra Palace, London August 14th 2010

Small Car Big City - Tour London in a Classic Mini

2010-02-07T18:06:00.003Z

This is cool - A guy setup a company offering tours of London in a mini. I like the way mini experts will probably name the years of the minis they use as shown in the clip. Hang on, I say, that is a 90s mini cooper, I can tell by the grill! I wonder if they need a driver, that would be the best job ever!

Watching this makes me miss my Mini even more.. I wonder how much it is? Maybe for this shameless plug I can get a free lift when the Jubilee is down one weekend :P

Driving Experience Gifts - Which is best?

2009-12-04T10:19:00.007Z

I was just looking at some Red Letter Driving Experiences as gifts to get people at Christmas.

It is a pretty difficult choice, as there are Ferrari's, Aston Martin's, classic cars, rally driving....I am not sure I could choose between them myself, let alone for someone else!

I think I might just end up getting a voucher so they can choose their own driving day!

What car would you choose to drive? I like the sound of the Lotus Exige personally :)

My Red Letter Days

Classic Mini Drove Through a Wall of a Building

2009-05-20T15:10:00.001Z

Another mini stuck on a wall!

Check it out

Win a 'Mini Party'

2009-05-12T13:37:00.002Z

Join the party - Mini's 50th birthday celebration with Asos & Replay

Minis Driving Up Walls

2009-04-14T13:13:00.002Z

Mini On a Wall Spotted on Google Streetview - nothing sticks like a mini. Good ad!

Reminds me of the Extreme Mini Parking spotted a few years ago...

More Minis at the GT Race Weekend at Silverstone

2008-08-21T17:11:00.006Z

Lovely Lovely Minis!

Mini At Silverstone

2008-08-18T15:47:00.003Z

Hello!

Long time no post. I don't currently have a mini :(

But I do keep an eye out for them of course!

My parents went to Silverstone on Sunday and spotted this beauty:

Win a New Mini Cooper with 3

2008-03-12T10:37:00.005Z

3 Mobile is celebrating it's 5th birthday by giving away a brand new Mini Cooper! The only thing is, you have to be an existing customer to be eligible to enter - boo hoo.

Other prizes are Nintendo Wii's and also the impressive Nokia N95 8GB! All you have to do is enter your details on the site. Good luck.

If you would like to be
3 Contracts UK have the latest 3 Mobile Offers.

Mini Up For Sale on Ebay

2008-02-11T15:04:00.000Z

My Classic Mini Cooper is up for sale on ebay UK. Put in a bid and you might get lucky!

Scalextric Mini Cooper - Digital Driver

2007-12-04T13:28:00.000Z

This scalextric racing set includes 2 BMW Mini Cooper models that are all revved up and ready to go head to head on the 418cm oval track. Who will win? Battle it out and test your driving skills - he or she with the best hand-eye coordination and most steely nerves will win out. It's a mini adventure!

Mini Desktop Racing on Wii

2007-10-08T21:02:00.000Z

"POPCORN: Mini Desktop Racing" is coming out on the Nintendo Wii soon. It looks pretty cool actually, and is only £17.99 to pre-order from amazon! Check out the game footage below:

• Tear past your opponents in Championship and Single Race mode or try to shave seconds off your record in Time Trial.

• Mini Desktop Racing lets you loose with a crazy selection of officially licensed Minis, each accurately rendered with distinctive performance abilities.

• Racing your inch-long miniatures around the wildest tracks where everyday objects appear immense in size and can become lethal hazards.

• Hurl around familiar household environments knocking over trackside objects and causing havoc for your opponents.

• Build up your skills and quick reflexes to unlock hidden extras including new Minis, upgrades, tracks and much more.

• Use the Wii Remote in the driving position and control your Mini like you hands were on the steering wheel itself, tilting your controller to manoeuvre around corners or to ram an opponent off the track. Feel every bump as you controller vibrates.

• Compete against friends, wheel to wheel in the insanely competitive multiplayer mode with each track individually designed for a unique racing experience.

Its a shame this does not like it is 4-player, otherwise it could have been carnage!

Mini Cooper Driving Experiences

2007-08-31T14:25:00.000Z

Virgin have a number of Mini Cooper driving gifts available on its website: Virgin Experience Days.

There is MINI THRILL

The Mini Cooper S, an icon of its era, will amaze you at how fast it goes around corners!! In this taster Mini Cooper Driving Thrill experience this fantastic car will demonstrate why it is still one of the most popular small cars in the UK!

Mini thrill is only £50 and makes a great gift for younger drivers.

There is also the MINI Racing Day: Mini Mayhem

Who can forget the amazing action of the Mini Coopers in ‘The Italian Job’? Forty years later the Mini Cooper is back. And there’s no better way to enjoy one than on the Mini Mayhem Experience . Inspired by the classic 60’s film, this brand new event is a unique opportunity to discover how much fun driving a Mini Cooper really is. This is fun with a capital F!

Mini Mayhem is the complete mini driving thrill and is priced at £185.

These driving experience gifts are ideal for mini lovers and driving enusiasts alike and are sure to be well appreciated and remembered with fondess for years.

MasterMind Specialist Subject

2007-08-15T16:47:00.001Z

ARgh.

At work I have to take part in a MASTERMIND quiz.

My specialist subject will be: The Classic Mini. Lets hope I do well!

3rd Brake Light for Sale

2007-06-18T20:30:00.000Z

I bought this 3rd brake light for my mini before I got a cool one which spells 'MINI' when you brake. Only a quid as im having a clear out!

A 3rd brake light is a must for a mini as:
1. IA mini is low compared to most modern cars.
2. The brake lights on a mini are very low!
3. Disc braked minis can stop pretty sharpish due to their light weight!

Its on ebay now.....

Classic Mini Gearknob's for Sale

2007-06-11T14:32:00.000Z

Im selling these mini gearknobs on ebay if your interested. A shiny gearknobo with the mini cooper logo or a cool gearknob made from a pool ball. Both fit the classic mini, so check them out!

Also selling a bit more car parts this week I think, when I find them. Bit of a clear out before I move.

These have both now been sold....view my other items.

London 2 Brighton 2007

2007-05-21T13:19:00.001Z

Well it looks like it was a nice day for the London 2 Brighton mini run!

I did not go this year but I was in the vicinity as I had travelled down near to Brighton for a family christening.

I did see a LOT of minis on the way there and back, mostly broken down!

I was not driving so I had plenty of time to stare at them all. Those poor minis.........

Classic Mini Cooper For Sale

2007-05-08T14:05:00.000Z

ON EBAY RIGHT NOW!

Anyone want to buy my mini?

Im selling my classic mini, due to living in london now - anyone want to buy it or know anyone?

Such great features!
1996 spi Cooper - P Plate. 34,000 miles.

MOT April 2008

Tax Jan 2009
Walnut Dash! Half Leather Original Interior still at an amazing standard!
Leather rimmed steering wheel
1.3 single point injection engine
alarm/immobiliser
horn
indicators
Panasonic cd player
Alloy Minilite style wheels
FSH, receipts etc

Alloy Door Furniture
Matching Mats + pedals
Official KAD V2 Quickshift (worth ~£90}
'MINI' third brake light
kent cams 274i camshaft – best cam for Spi road mini
K&N 57i Air Filter
RC40 single box exhaust
Maniflow LCB Manifold

New blue Silicon ht leads

Alloy rocker cover and anodised t-bars

Lots of other miscellaneous parts (unfitted) will be included such as injection top engine steady

New uprated 70amp alternator, new NGK spark plugs and new Halfords battery with 3 yr guarantee

£2500 ono
location: essex
gmail.com me: m3ntalist atyeolde gmail.com or comment here!

OlafMini Passed the MOT!

2007-04-17T13:55:00.000Z

Well, it was second time lucky. Failed on the rear fog light and one of the front headlights. Took about 30 mins to fix, then was presented with a shiny MOT certificate for another year. Thank god....

Buy One Porsche, Get One Free!

2007-04-17T13:43:00.000Z

Alternator Fitted

2007-04-10T10:24:00.000Z

A bit of a state my engine bay really isnt it - needs a good clean!

Z-Cars A-Series Subframe

2007-04-06T14:02:00.000Z

How sweet is that!

1 Million Binis

2007-04-05T12:50:00.000Z

1 Million dull binis have now been sold, leeching off past classic mini glories!

The MINI brand is pretty strong it seems, they are everywhere!

The Stig Speaks! Dutch Viewers Listen

2007-04-04T13:58:00.000Z

Check out the STIG voicing his lambo views on dutch telly.

Pre-MOT Tune up

2007-04-04T13:26:00.000Z

Well I have got my exhaust repaired by my rather talented brother.. and have ordered some parts.

I ordered a new spi Alternator, Spark plugs and some engine steady bushes from minispares.As this weekend is a nice long thing, thanks to easter, I should get round to actually working on the mini. I will also pop down halfords to get oil, fanbelt and a new battery. Not cheap - the minispares order cost a fraction under £100. I prefer to use new, uprated parts though. Only the best for Olaf!

I think I might sell a few unwanted car bits on ebay this weekend. I have a few gearknobs, a third LED brake light and some other stuff I bought but are not using. I think this happens to most mini enthusiasts! Too many ideas, cannot use them all!

Eddie Griffin Crashes Enzo

2007-03-28T14:49:00.000Z

Ouch, check this crash out.

'Brother Can't Drive' - Classic :)

Brands Hatch 2 Nurburgring 2007

2007-03-27T23:31:00.000Z

The Mini Forum are now taking runners for this years trip to the Nurburgring. It costs £110 per car and is an awesome experience for any fan of minis and motorsport! I have been the last two years and it was brilliant.

Weekend of Mini woe

2007-03-25T14:47:00.000Z

Fate conspired against me this weekend, when trying to obtain a new MOT for Olaf (my mini). The events mean I am seriously considering selling him (once I have got the MOT anyway).

On Saturday I took olaf to the garage I had booked for the MOT, but there was the problem of the ramp being too high, and the car's exhaust too low or something. DARN. I then drove to about 5 local places to see if they could fit olaf in. At Kwik Fit I got the classic 'We don't do MOT's on Saturdays'. Well fuck you too! Everywhere else was full. So I got the Yellow pages out and booked one for Sunday Afternoon. Funnily enough it was the same garage where my mini mechanic took olaf last year, even though I didnt know that at the time.

On Saturday night I decided to drive back to London as I was bored, and planned to head back to essex for the MOT in the morning. I thought a good run would charge up the battery.

In the morning I had no power, but this was solved by a manly push start by my ginger housemate. Not the greatest start. I was beginnign to think something has gone wrong by this point. Maybe its the alternator, not charging the battery. The battery is fairly new but that could also be the cause.

I was driving along the north circular, singing along to the pixies when I heard a funny sound. It took me a while to realise what it was, for a while I thought it sounding almost like a gurgling noise some kind of pump would make. Well I was being an idiot, it was obviously the exhaust hitting the ground!

I managed to pull in to a lay-by, right next to an SOS phone.

The whole bracket had come off the exhaust!

What make it worse was that this had already happened before, but this time it was the middle silencer bracket. I got this RC40 exhaust from mini-spares and it was not cheap - it is a strainless steel one. I wish I opted for a full maniflow system now!

I had to call my kind parents for help, as I was pretty much stranded with no RAC cover, DOH. It is always when you cancel something that it might come in handy. Oh well.

After a while my dad arrived and managed to tie it up. It was a shame the exhaust melted right through the rope - the exhaust fell off again about 10 minutes on!

It was also hard to get started due to the lack of battery power, it seemed to lock on the immobiliser. But it might have just been the battery in the keyfob ALSO dying on me.

This time I got a tow as we did not want to risk a bump start on a dodgy area or the exhaust coming off again. Being towed can be a scary experience, as you are going around 35-40MPH on a 70MPH dual carrigeway. Although it is a lot easier to keep a constant pace on a good long stretch of road.

Maybe some kid at the garage seriously damaged my exhaust at the MOT centre. I guess I'll never know. Hopefully my brother will be able to do a weld on it. Hopefully the exhaust is just scratched and their are no huge holes. I havent had a look yet as I have left it around my parents house.

So, I have not even had the pain of getting a classic mini through an MOT, as I have not got that far yet... .. .and to top it all off I think I have a cold.

I am not sure if I can justify such a money sink anymore - and that goes for all cars.

MOT Day

2007-03-24T09:51:00.000Z

MOT's are always nerve wracking for mini owners. It always fails on something!

Will it be:

1) Tyres
2) Suspension
3) Ball Joints
4) Rust
5) Something Else

Wish me luck, I am off to give it a quick check over!

Mighty Minis Racing Calendar 2007

2007-02-12T21:20:00.000Z

Some mini Racing dates you should not miss in 2007!

Mighty Mini's Extreme

May 12th-13th
Pembray,Double Header

June 17th
Snetterton

July 15th
Cadwell Double Header

Aug 5th
Mallory Double Header

Sept 29th
lydden hill double header

Gravity Defying Mini-Parking

2007-02-12T16:41:00.001Z

Ever had trouble finding a space at Tescos? Well here is a simple solution. Park on a vertical wall. A very cat-like mini scaling a wall.

BUT WHY? you ask? Who cares really when it looks this cool.

I found out about this image at a Google Earth Blog - Check out the confusion it caused

Snow Covered Mini

2007-02-11T17:51:00.000Z

Here is a shot of my mini covered in snow. Aww.

This is from my photo blog.

More Tat with a Bini On

2007-02-08T19:01:00.000Z

Mini Cooper Light Switches For a Rip Off £24.99!

If you want your walls adorned with a cheap piece of crap then go here.

I hate these things, they must be the tackiest shit yet featuring the BMW mini.

Mini Fan's Videos

2007-02-07T22:35:00.000Z

Dom Sandiford has a nice collecion of some mini videos he made on his website.

Why road-charging is inevitable

2007-01-19T12:58:00.000Z

Interesting article regarding why the current road tax system is out of date, and the state of the roads/traffic in the UK.

Hammond's Crash in Pictures

2007-01-18T14:56:00.001Z

Now on the BBC website..

Petition: Historic Car Tax

2007-01-08T10:31:00.000Z

http://petitions.pm.gov.uk/historiccartax/

Sign up now mini-lovers and help more remain on the road.

Unlocking Classic Mini Cooper in GT4?

2006-12-30T14:31:00.000Z

Well my mini has not been running too badly this winter, must be due to the fact that so far our winter has been quite mild!

I always do quite a few miles at Christmas, and so far so good. I am sure there are several things wrong though, so I need to give it a good check over. I also need to find my colour magic wax as someone opened their door onto mine last week :(

Hopefully in 2007 I will have some more money for repairs and then some improvements.

This year I have spent a lot of money it seems on my car, so I am a bit reluctant to mess abbout with it too much at the moment.

One thing I do need help with is finding a Classic Mini Cooper in GT4! They have a picture of a classic mini (looks jut like mine) on the 'compact cup' selection. This drives me nuts, I must find out how to unlock it - if anyone knows please comment :)

Magnetic Display: Rotating Mini Cooper

2006-12-08T11:14:00.000Z

The Gadget Shop are currently selling a magnetic mini cooper which is made for use in the IFO 3000 Magnetic display unit.

The IFO 3000 allows you to place specially designed magnetic objects which will appear to 'float' in mid-air!

So if a floating, spinning mini cooper floats your boat head on over to the gadget shop!

TMF Becomes Official Forum for Z-Cars

2006-12-02T15:18:00.000Z

"With the growing presence of ZCars products and projects on the forum, an agreement was struck for TMF to be the official forum for ZCars.

ZCars are a dedicated company that specialise in high powered vehicles for fast road, track or race use. They have developed kits for the Lotus Elise, the Ultima, the Citroen Saxo, and most importantly, the Mini!! They currently offer several different kits that will transform your mini into a RWD beast, using either the R1 or Hayabusa bike engines, or the Honda Civic Type R engine. If that isn't enough for you, the spaceframe 'Monte Carlo' kit is the ultimate in what they do; 0-60mph in 2.8s, 100-0mph in 3.9s and handling to rival any supercar, the Monte Carlo is something special!

With such high profile projects such Ade R1 Minus, and Pete's R1 engined pickup, TMF had almost become a mecca for those lucky people creating a ZCar mini. We currently have over 25 ZCar projects being eagerly followed by our members, and the ZCars section is a one-stop area to discover everything you need to know about ZCars, as well as ask technical questions, and browse the For Sale/Wanted section. We'll also be the best place to catch up with all the thrills, spills and action in next years ZCar Race Series!!"

The Zcars race series sounds quite exciting to me, lots of minis going sideways!

View the z cars forums on TMF.

View the zcars official website.

DVDs of Zcars in action!

Top Classic Mini Gifts For Christmas

2006-11-27T15:21:00.000Z

I have personally chosen a selection of Gifts for the classic Mini enthusiast.

There are many DVDs to choose from when it comes to the mini.

MiniFilms probably offer the best selection, with their new DVD coming out just in time for christmas: Ultimate Mini Mayhem.

There are also a number of books which could come in handy for anyone who owns a mini.

Mini: A Celebration of Britain's Best-loved Small Car by Haynes Great Cars. Should offer a comprehensive history of britain's best loved small car.

If you are thinking of buying some expensive bits to treat your mini this christmas, mini-sport have got some christmas special offers.

Mini Cooper S Racing

2006-10-28T14:19:00.000Z

A new game is due out soon: Austin Mini Racing!

The game is available on PC CD and for the PS2.
The game is due out on 28/11/2006.

" Classic Mini Cooper cars fully recreated and perfectly rendered under license.

Single player race and chase game. Race to destinations, avoid traffic, choose between alternate routes in order to get to your next job under the time limit, only to be sent back through the town to drop off your secret package.

Make the most of the Mini’s size, taking to the back-streets & side-alleys, utilising pipes, jumps, through-buildings to evade the police, and finding hidden bonus items in the hard-to-reach parts of the map. Full of chaotic, fast-paced film.

Cool and stylish characters careering around the beautiful streets of an Italian town, racing against the clock and the law.

- One HUGE level based on an Italian town

- High detail “Mini Cooper” models, with reflecting surfaces and multiple camera angles."

I don't expect this game to rival the might of GT legends, but I dont think it is supposed to be a simulation at all, but if your looking for mini fun with lots of action this could be the game for you! Head on over to Amazon to buy it.

For the latest in Gaming News, head on over to Gamefluff!

Logitek G25 - Awesome Steering Wheel

2006-10-28T13:26:00.000Z

I was looking through the Gameseek website the other day and I came across this new racing wheel that is coming out from Logitech: The Logitech G25 Racing Wheel.

The wheel should be released in about 3 days, and will set you back a hefty £179.99 but looks well worth it for the serious gamer. I also like the way it can be used on multiple formats.

This wheel would be awesome for games like GT4 and GT Legends on the PC.

G25 Specification:

"Simulator-grade force feedback. Rock-solid 900 degree steering. Six-speed shifter. With the LogitechÂ® G25 Racing Wheel, youÂre not playing games anymore - youÂre racing! The 28cm (11Â) leather-covered wheel has a stainless steel frame for superior rigidity. The dual-motor force feedback mechanism sports two sets of steel ball bearings for smooth, tight steering and superior force effects. Precision stainless steel accelerator, brake and clutch pedals let you elevate your driving to an art form. Components can be bolted down for exceptional sturdiness - Now itÂs not the wheelÂs fault if you donÂt win."

The wheel I bought last year did not stand up to much abuse: Logitech formula force wheel, this wheel is pretty much busted! I had to decrease the sensitivity so it did not drive into a wall instead of going straight :(
But it's still a good value wheel, as its only £30 in the first place.

This wheel is definitely on my wish list!

If you want a wheel for your actual MINI and not a polygon mini then head on over to Mountney.

Haynes Mini Keyring

2006-10-26T12:15:00.000Z

Not updated for a while - my internet was down for ages, and work has been manic recently. I was also ill for a week with food poisoning. Ergh!

As Christmas is coming up, its a good time to look at items to get your mini lover.

A perfect tree present would be this Haynes Mini Keyring.

"This retro-style Mini keyring uses the original Haynes Manual artwork for a classic effect.

So if you're a Mini owner or fan, or a swinging sixties nut, or your favourite film is the Italian Job, or you just appreciate one of the truly great design icons of the last generation, make a nod in the direction of Brit culture with this chic little accessory. You'll be surprised how many pleasantly unexpected conversations it starts."

Expect some more updates this week, I fitted a new KAD quickshift a little while ago!

Castle Combe Mini Action Day

2006-09-28T13:15:00.000Z

DOn't forget to head down to Castle Combe this weekend for the Mini Action Day!

I went last year to this and it was good fun. I won't be going this year though due to lack of funds/car reliability worries. Hopefulyl next year though!

Brands Hatch Minis

2006-09-21T12:23:00.000Z

I like this pic, I am driving my blue mini round brands Hatch! This was taken last month during the brands-to-nurburgring mini run.

Get well Soon Richard Hammond!

Drive The Legend Poster

2006-09-10T19:44:00.000Z

Heres a pic of the poster my bro' got for me - looks just like mine!

MiniWorld Competition Win!

2006-09-10T14:41:00.000Z

I had a nice surprise when I returned home from Germany - I had won this sweet mini van model. Cheers MiniWorld!

Nurburgring Parade Lap 2006

2006-09-08T02:43:00.000Z


Quite a funny lap.............. (?)

2006-09-07T23:16:00.000Z

Mini Parade Lap - BRANDS HATCH

Here is a clip from the brands hatch parade lap from Turbo Stev'es awesome clubman.

Keef's Ring Report #2 - 30th Aug - 6th Sept 2006

2006-09-07T21:53:00.000Z

Here is my full report of my second trip from brands hatch to the nurburgring with the mini forum. The trip helped raise money for macmillan cancer relief.

Wednesday 30th August 2006: Meet at Brands Hatch

Got to brands hatch nice and early, Dom and a few others were there. I am not a morning person, ergh! The run packs were handed out, t-shirts were worn, plaques and stickers were attached to the minis. As you can see, I was handed the number 13. I thought this could prove omnious but it turned out ok in the end. Maybe 13 is not so bad after all?

The minis lined up ready for the parade lap, which was kindly arranged by Brands Hatch for us. We did not get this luxury last year so it was a big thrill!

Sadly I didnt get any footage of this as the camera was not setup correctly. Dom had a problem but luckily just a wire had come loose. Turbo Steve has some good footage of the lap.

After the lap we set off for dover in a large convoy of all the minis. We said goodbye to a few TMF'ers who were not going to the ring and boarded the speedferries ferry. Most made it to the F1 hotel in Chalaroi, Belgium apart from Graham's mini which bent a valve!

It is not hard to navigate to the hotel - You simply follow a Sat Nav Mini!

Thursday: Set off to the Ring with some runners slightly worse for wear.
Dom had some troubles after the cute town we drove through, so we stopped at the same place last year. Bounce looked a bit odd with his Union Jack thong.

We stopped a few times for petrol, organised using the 2-way radios and use of the indicator.

After not too long a drive the tents were setup at the campsite, and a much needed beer or two were consumed.

In the evening, everyone gathered round the campfire for a singsong and other merryment, such as dressing in a variety of crazy outfits.

Friday 1st August:

I explored some of the Nurburgring AM campsite. I pretended I won a race and got up on a podium I found:

I also went on a cool drive around the local roads in a convoy of minis. There are some superb roads which are perfect for minis!

Alburgler crashed upon returning from the ring in a ditch on the campsite.

There was much rejoicing as it was only a metro pretending to be a ferrari!

I also popped into the lovely town of Adenau, which is just north of the Ring. I got a nice pizza from one of the many restaurants.

Saturday: First Lap of Ring of the weekend!

When the track opened I took Olaf out with Karl as a passenger in the front and Aly in the back. I followed bounce most of the way round, so it was cool being in a small convoy of minis!

Karl and Steve were a bit gutted due to the steering column problem, which would get sorted out on Monday. Here is a pic of Steve's excellent engine:

I also took some photos today but they are on my other camera so I will post these at a later date.

Stiglet went for a drive in the roundnose shorty around the campsite:

Sunday: Parade Lap Day

On sunday everyone woke up early and arrived at the ring so we could arrange when we could have our parade lap (it would have to be after the ferraris).

We got the cars into the car park and tried to arrange a nice photo without much luck.

As you can see, the weather did not look too good today.

Managed to record the parade lap of minis on the Sunday Morning! As the metro gave up the ghost the previous day with a mysterious missfire, pinch and alburgler took a ride in olaf, so I had four people when it came to the lap. It was fun all the same!

--| Parade Lap Video |--

There were many ferraris of all shapes and sizes at the ring the whole weekend as it was a special ferrari event.

So the car park was full of minis and ferraris on the Sunday after our parade lap.

There were still a fair few porsches as usual. These were driven by some enthusiastic japanese guys I think, who loved the minis.

The two shortys recieved a lot of attention in the car park!

Here is a vid from inside the shorty on the parade lap. As you can see it is pretty wet, which is dangerous in a shorty, so they took it nice and easy as you should. I decided to head back after a while as I didnt want to risk driving or being a passenger in those conditions.

Monday: More Ring Action
Was nice and dry today, and the last day for minis to get on the track so a few of us took advantage of this.

The Metrarri which had retired from the weekend with a suspect pieces of belly button fluff in the engine, was finally trailered off the campsite.

The metro was replaced by a Festa:

The hire cars were made faster and more stylish with some viper/cooper stripes.

A few serious Bini's were taking up too much space in the car park. Get a REAL mini!

A crazy looking GT1 porsche was out and about.

I waited in line and got a passenger lap with the stig which can be viewed here. He has a supercharger kit from Vmax Scart. Once I actually have some money I might go for this conversion. A guy on the miniforum was involved in an accident as a passenger with this golf while I was on the lap with the schtig.

I decided not to try and get any laps with people I didnt know, so I decided to get a lap with my own car. Alburgler gladly accepted a lap, but not before offering it to others - No one seemed interested in being a passenger though! It was a fun lap, a pretty empty track, just got to watch that low sun blinding me. I also got to ride as a passenger for a short blast down the local road in turbo steve's clubman which was cool. I have wanted to experience the boost for a while!

Tuesday: Everyone packed up their stuff ready for the journey back to the F1 hotel. Some of us stopped for macdonalds on the way.

The Schtig somehow fit all this stuff into his motor.

Wednesday: Trip Home
I ended up in about 4 different convoys on the way back which was fun, finally stopping in bologne with enough time spare for some ace fish and chips. We were joined by a cute doggy while we ate our meal.

An accordian player arrived to set the scene.

Bounce could not take the music any longer and had to strip off to his thong (again).

I made it back ok in the end, the car is a bit wobbly to drive though.

Here is a fly splatted run Plaque!

---------- More Photos will be posted here -------

I cannot wait till next year, now to find the money for the much needed servicing and modifications!

If you are interested in taking part in this excellent event, sign up on the mini forum and get your mini ready!

2006-09-07T11:02:00.000Z

Mini In-Car Nurburgring

Here is a clip from my passenger lap with the mini-schtig. His car is a mini neon 1275 with a supercharger kit, which delivers around 110 bhp. He also has standard suspension.

Brands Hatch to Nurburgring 2006 Report

2006-09-06T18:39:00.000Z

Well I am back from the ring safe and sound - full report to follow!

Was superb.

Classic Mini racing on Zandvoort

2006-08-23T20:20:00.000Z


Cool Vid of a 1380 driving round Zandvort in Holland. Some good onboard shots.

MINI Nurburgring Crash

2006-08-20T15:35:00.000Z

Cleaning K&N 57i Filter For the SPi Mini

2006-08-20T12:46:00.000Z

I thought I would 'renew' the K&N filter element last week, I think you don't really need to do this until 50,000-100,000 miles but it had been given some stick last year so I thought id give it a clean. My whole car is currently a mess really, cleaning the air filter will not make much difference!

I got this set from ebay, which was about £10.

You then brush off the big lumps of dirt/insects/wasps/cyclists.

The filter element is then ready to be sprayed.

Then left for ten minutes:

After 10 minutes you can then spray water from inside the element. After this the element will look whitish, as the oil has been removed. The K&N oil can then be sprayed on, leaving the element as good as new!

Cool Mini T-Shirts For Sale!

2006-08-19T10:11:00.000Z

New NEW Mini at Nurburgring Video

2006-08-15T21:33:00.000Z

Check this out

Sweet Handling and exhaust note :)

-bit more info here

Olafs Blue Mini Pedals

2006-08-14T19:15:00.000Z

Not the best photo in the world (taken with my new k800i)

I am also testing out this 3.2 megapixel cameraphone taking photos of minis I see around.

More coming soon!

Classic Mini RingTool

2006-08-06T16:48:00.000Z

During my Nurburgring research (This whole weekend I have been obsessed with my Trip there this month) I have discovered that maybe a mini is a decent ring 'tool.

Check out the Ringhaus - they have a mini you can hire for use!

Brake Pads and a Nurburgring Map!

2006-08-06T12:25:00.000Z

As my MINI holiday is coming up soon, which is a trip to the Nurgburgring, I have decided to prepare!

I have just ordered a new set of EBC Green Stuff brake pads from minispares. Last year I got some terrible brake fade. What you would expect from a 10minute + lap! EBC Green Stuff pads should be ideal, they bite from cold and work up to a high temperature. Ideal for hard road use. They also are supposed to chuck out less brake dust. My front wheels need some serious reconditioning due to brake dust pitting them.

I was also thinking about tyres to get beforehand. Part of me thinks I should just get some afterwards, when they are bald. Looking at the cost of a set of 4 tyres - I might aswell get some new wheels with the tyres as a set! Probably the stickiest rubber, yoko 048s would make sense if you had enough money to spare, but I think these would easily wear out in one weekend at the ring!

I have also ordered a map of the circuit and the surrounding areas, so hopefully will know a bit more of how to get to some places. You can get this map from amazon.co.uk.

One more thing I purchased from good old ebay - some K&N filter cleaner and oil. This will need a right good clean before I go!

ELMC - East London Mini Club

2006-08-03T20:44:00.000Z

Now ive moved from Essex to East London, maybe I should look at joining the East London Mini Club. We shall see - I said that about essex mini club but I never seemed to get around to it!

A dude from the mini forum got some press for our nurburgring mini trip which is fast approaching. Argh, so much preparation to sort out!

Mini Concepts At the 2006 Motor Show

2006-07-28T16:38:00.000Z

Motor Show Pics - yahoo

I have not gone to the motor show so far - I might go next week.

Debt Versus Safety - Preparing for the Ring

2006-07-22T12:50:00.000Z

Well, while it was raining or about to rain I though I would hold off from washing the car for a while and write a blog. Hello!

Now then, as you might know I am off to the Nurburgring again.. next month in fact! That reminds me, I havent booked the F1 hotel yet.....oops.

So, I was thinking what needs doing to my car. I think its about time I got some new discs and pads for the front. They must need replacing by now! Mini-Spares seem to do a set for around £23 or so. Every mini retailer's website seems a bit messed up today, I had problems with mini-sport and mini-spares.

Goodwood Festival of Speed 2006

2006-07-11T09:49:00.000Z

I went to Goodwood a few years ago - Check out autoblogs links to loads of photos from this year!.

I must make sure I attend again next year.

Silver Ring Rally Fully Booked

2006-06-30T07:37:00.000Z

The lads at the mini directory now have all the places filled for their Silver Ring Rally to the Nurburgring from Silverstone. The Silver Ring Rally will take place from 27 July to 1 August. This will be a total of 6 days.

I wish them all the best, and hope they all return safely. They are sure to have the time of their lives!

Cool Mini Documentary

2006-06-28T21:59:00.000Z

YouTube has some excellent classic mini videos!

Mini Films Engine For Sale

2006-06-26T07:32:00.000Z

Ebay Listing of minifilms 1380

Looks like it is already up to £1600. Ouch

Flying Your Flag With Your Mini

2006-06-21T14:01:00.000Z

As its the world cup, I want to see many minis flying the flag of your nation!

Please send me images and I will post the best up here. My email is: 'm3ntalist' which is at gmail.com. Cheers.

Mini Credit Card

2006-06-07T08:59:00.000Z

MINI have teamed up with Am-Ex to launch a new credit card. Using the card at MINI dealerships and when filling up with petrol enables you to enter competitions each month to win prizes.

The card has 3 different MINI based designs. Apply for MINI Credit Card at Am-Ex... Or you can find out more on the money by mini website.

The card is currently available in the UK only.

BMW MINI partners AM-EX

Bird Poop - The Bane of my life

2006-06-03T17:22:00.000Z

I washed my car earlier, only for a bird to crap right down the side of it. At least I was able to take it off straight away. I think with this sunshine it must bake it on. Not good for the aging bodywork!

I wish I had a garage.

I raised my fists to the heavens, WHY LORD? WHY? Oh well, at least England won 6-0. A horn which could play some football tune would be cool this time of year!

Cool Diesel Mini

2006-06-02T09:02:00.000Z

I never thought id see a MINI with Diesel power, but I guess it was only a matter of time these days!

The only difference is that it has been styled by Diesel Clothing Designer, and not with an actual Diesel engine :P

The mini will be appearing on ebay soon to raise money and awareness for Life Ball 2006, an Aids charity event.

Car Reliability Index

2006-06-01T09:07:00.000Z

Reliability Results for the Mini

Reliability Index 45.22
Average Age 3.314646465
Average Mileage 29554.46061
Time off the Road 5.156233952
Average Repair Cost £321.54
Air Conditioning -
Axle & Suspension 20.83%
Braking System -
Cooling and Heating System 37.50%
Electrical 33.33%
Engine -
Fuel System 8.33%
Transmission -

My Weekend

2006-05-30T22:39:00.000Z

I solved a few issues on my car at the weekend.

* Moved that annoying exhaust bracket round so it doesnt hang down two inches and hit everything.

* Tightened a loose radiator bracket which moved and banged about.

* Tightened the slipping fanbelt.

* Fixed another screw for the ECU-bracket which had gone AWOL.

I have an engine steady to bolt on, looks like ill need to get some gaskets and bolts before I attempt that. I dont want to break the bolts then have a non working car!

I also think there is some major oil leakage happening. Either that or it just needs a good engine clean. The car was good though, I enjoyed driving through some Kent countryside at the weekend.

I must fill in the agreed insurance value form and take lots of nice photos soon!

Extra: I will probably be attending this Years Major Motor show.....

Mini Racing Days 2006

2006-05-23T22:14:00.000Z

Check out Mini Racing Days 2006.

The event takes place on the 3rd and 4th of June 2006 at the Folembray (02) circuit in France. It is a gathering of European mini clubs. With track access for visitors it plans to be an exciting event.

Donate For Macmillan Cancer Relief

2006-05-22T20:20:00.000Z

The link has been setup now for online donations for the brands hatch to nurburgring mini run which is taking place later on this year.

Please visit and donate anything you can spare for this most excellent cause!

The justgiving website gives a secure way to donate to charity.

To see some details about the run visit the website. Spaces are still available to this amazing event. If you think london to brighton is good.. then this is on another planet! Also the weather will be so much better :)

London 2 Brighton 2006 Review

2006-05-22T10:09:00.000Z

No Updates as I fell asleep all of last night, even missing Top Gear.

It was good fun even though it was a complete wash out!

Some of the photos I took

London to Brighton Mini Run

2006-05-19T13:38:00.000Z

Well I shall be taking part in the London to brighton mini run tomorrow. I shall be camping at Crystal Palace, London tomorrow night, then driving to brighton with 2000 other minis! I have never taken part in this so I am quite excited.

Got a lot of mini-cleaning to do tomorrow!

Motor Expo 2006

2006-05-16T20:09:00.000Z

The yearly motor expo which is held at Canary Wharf will take place 22nd-28th this month.

The entry is FREE, ahh. I might pop down there on saturday the 27th if I can. These MINI chaps will be there.

Mad Mini Videos

2006-05-15T20:15:00.000Z

This site features some very mad minis, and some great videos going round tracks.

Race Nurburgring Nordschleife on GT Legends

2006-05-14T16:09:00.000Z

Ahh, it looks like someone has ported over the track so you can race the old Nurburgring circuit with GT Legends.

The Track can be downloaded here.

Heres a forum post regarding the add-on.

This team is currently updating the track: Friendly Curb: The Mother II

You can buy the game cheap now. £18 - bargain! Has mini racing, always fun offline or online.

Some more pics...

On the rev limit... longer gearing needed!

A roundnose mini flattened, which looks similar to the new mini front end.

With driving this bad, maybe I should fit a rollcage before re-attempting the Nordscleife for real..

This happened for real last year. Pant fillingly scary.

I get it all sideways

UPDATE: An updated version of the track which works better is available for download here.

That site is cool, people post videos of their times: Austin Mini Cooper S 09:35.487! Wow, pretty quick!

I need to get my steering wheel up to my new house.. and play this again. Funnily enough I played GT Legends on someones laptop, whilst camping at the Nurburgring AM campsite, kind of strange!

EDIT 28-10-2006:
For the best steering wheel on the market for this game, please view this post!

The Mini Returns

2006-05-10T21:49:00.000Z

I got my car (Olaf!) picked up today. Ahh it is so much better.

The whole throttle linkage was replaced.. which cost a lot.

I think I will be receiving a itemised bill through the post, plus prices on what other things need repair/replacing. It seems like the brakes need looking at. It probably was not good for them when the revs were going so high and I had to brake while the car was accelerating by itself!

The high revving starts probably hasnt done the clutch much good either, it made some funny noises. A bit depressing really as its only done about 200 miles since a clutch change.

This can all wait anyway, I need it running for the London 2 Brighton Mini run Saturday week!

Olaf Gets Repaired

2006-05-06T17:03:00.000Z

Today I popped up to Mini Auto Bodycare in Braintree. These guys are specialists in bodywork and other work on minis.

I got shown this excellent electric sunroof and central locking system which was installed to a few of their show cars. I thought I would not want such a thing, but seeing the roof in action has made me think twice. I will have to save up. A bit more affordable is the boot lining they do. I will have to enquire how much this is as it looked really tidy. After seeing a Bassbox I made once out of wood I would rather someone else make a professional job of it!

The work I will be getting done is an A-Panel and a Rear Valance (I think thats what its called.) I also would like the rev-problem I am having sorted out. I wish them good luck on that one!

Another job I have to do this week is sort out some new insurance. I will probably phone around some specialists as I want to be covered at the nurburgring and track days, get an agreed value, declare mods, declare speeding fine, and make sure its limited mileage. Phew.

Bill Sollis

2006-05-03T21:50:00.000Z

Well mr Bill Sollis has updated his website with results/photos from the weekends mini racing. There was two meetings this weekend, one race at brands on the sunday and another at Castle Combe on the bank holiday monday. I saw Bills car before the race on the Sunday, I would have said hello but he looked busy preparing the car. I don't like bothering anyone, heh. He had a good race, and came third. Looks like he was also competitive on the Monday with a second place!

Riviera Run Photos

2006-05-03T21:36:00.000Z

Well at the weekend was the Riviera Run
at Tevelque holiday park, I was not there of course (wedding to go to). But I thought I would post some links to photos for people anyway. Lots of photos in this thread on the mini forum.

This Site has some good photos: Click Browse, enter the name Karl, and the Venue as the Riviera Run.

And Loads more here.... from m4 minis.

Dunlop Great and British Motorsport Festival

2006-04-30T16:46:00.000Z

banner
Originally uploaded by Grim Optimist.

Today I took a trip down to Brands Hatch to see some racing. Upon Entry I got a nice free dunlop cap. Result. The racing was excellent. I walked around a paddock for a bit before the mini races to take a good look at the cars. The highlight has to be the mini miglia race. It was a close race in the end, I really enjoyed it. I will probably attend the mini seven 40 year anniversary event at Brands on the 16th April!

Great East Coast Easter Run - In Memory of Jamie Bailey

2006-04-22T10:52:00.000Z

On Easter Monday there was a Mini Run on the east coast of the UK organised by East Coast Mini Club.

The run was organised in memory of Jamie Bailey, who was an active member of East Coast Minis. Jamie was sadly passed away last year. He was a great mini enthusiast, and was always ready to lend a hand with the club and it's members. He will be sadly missed by all that knew him, and we would like to organise this run as our tribute to a fantastic person.

I would have gone to this, but I dont have a very well running mini... but looking at the pictures from the event I am jealous! Not sure about that ford though, I probably would have got stuck!

You can read a bit more about the run here.. and superb photos from the event by mwoods photography.

Go Karts

2006-04-22T10:22:00.000Z

Go Karts
Originally uploaded by Grim Optimist.

Spot the Keef!

Here I am at the Go Karts a few weeks ago for Bobs Stag party. I came second. I could be the new Nigel Mansell!

Keef the Stig

2006-04-19T08:58:00.000Z

Well I have sent my cheque off to pay for this years Nurburgring trip.... so it looks like I will be attending again!

Will update soon regarding car progress.

Mini Racing At Brands Hatch

2006-04-16T23:44:00.000Z

On 29th April there is a British Motorsport Festival being held at Brands Hatch racetrack. There will be some mini racing amongst other events. Worth a look!

Nurburgring Webcam

2006-04-15T11:03:00.000Z

The nurburgring webcam updates every minute or so! It comes from this official site.

Ultimate Mini Builder - 1380cc A-series

2006-04-15T10:25:00.000Z

Mini Films are now taking orders on its new mini DVD, 1380 A-Series.

"Ultimate Mini Builder - 1380cc A-series is your comprehensive guide to building a high performance fast-road 1380cc A-series engine. With over four hours of in-depth footage, watch as Mini expert Bill Sollis strips a Metro 1275cc unit and then rebuilds it to 1380cc with all the perfect components for long-lasting and reliable power! And to proove the result, we run the engine on a dyno - revealing over 100bhp and 100lbs/ft of torque."

Looks good if you are interesting in gettting more performance from your A-Series engine or you are looking to strip and put together an A-Series engine.

Another Nurburgring Parade Lap

2006-04-10T21:37:00.000Z

Another runner on the mini forum's brands hatch to nurburgring trip has made some excellent videos.

This one had video from the way back from the nurburgring.

Video with various footage from the trip.

Well done man, great videos! Watching these really makes me look forward to going this year.

You can check out the mini forums new brands hatch to nurburgring website if you are interested in joining this trip.

Grumble Grumble

2006-04-06T12:38:00.000Z

I am driving my mini for a little bit this week (abotu 5 minutes up the road to shorten my walk). There are some seriously strange noises coming from it. And a knocking sound aswell. I have a day off on Monday so I think I will be taking a good look (and to give it a good wash of course). The mini cannot deal with the dodgy roads where I live, I will need new suspension soon thats for sure....

Looks like the minispares parts order has not arrived in time though... :(

Brooklands Mini Show Photos

2006-04-02T22:19:00.000Z

Brooklands Mini Show Photos

Got an email with these superb mini photos. Check them out!

Red Mini Spotted

2006-03-29T13:50:00.000Z

I don't see many minis in London, but I spotted a lovely red sports pack near Fenchurch Street yesterday. I should be geeky and take a photo of these sightings.

Win a Mini with Paypal

2006-03-28T18:29:00.000Z

Here ya go...

Would be sweet to win a car... mmm.

Minis in a car park

2006-03-27T23:36:00.000Z

Here ya go, some nutters driving minis abround a car park.