17 replies to this topic

[xrocketengineer]

As far as the Japanese Mini's go, the only "crazy parts" are on the 97 and later models. They have a unique ECU and relay box, the engine is from the MPI (no distributor) but the radiator and fuel injection are from the SPI. I have 1994 Japanese Cooper. The ECU, relay box, fuel injection, coolant hoses, radiator, gearbox etc. are all standard Cooper items. The only unique items are related to the air conditioning, like compressor, brackets, belts, fans, condenser etc. Apart from that, it has an oddball catalytic converter overtemp buzzer (somebody cut the wires on mine) and the driving lights are set up to come on with the high beams only if the fog lights are off.
I have not had any issues getting parts for mine. However, you spend your time besides your money replacing stuff since mechanics are not common for these cars on this side of the pond.

PS
Rust is not a big issue with the Japanese Minis but not all are perfect.

Edited by xrocketengineer, 08 October 2012 - 09:59 PM.

[MiniMonty]

Hang on... the OP said "Vermont in the Winter--Slushy roads, corrosive salt, bitter cold"

Has anyone reminded him that this is (perhaps) the most successful rally car in history ?
Front wheel drive, massive torqure, incredible power to weight ratio, ledgendary control and conering... ?
Four consecutive Monte Carlo rally wins.
And then, 40 years later....

Forget Air-con (open a window mate), forget cruising...
A Mini is for speed, FUN, handling, FUN, hanging on, FUN, getting through it quicker and slicker than the others and then FUN !

So in answer to all his questions: reasonable expectations should be LOTS OF FUN

(boring cars are also available)

[Tremelune]

Well. I've got an E30 M3, so I have a lot of those bases covered...I'm looking to alleviate the stress I have about mall parking lots and hail without relinquishing any of my fun...Also, space is tight, so the smaller the car, the better (to an absurd degree).