8 replies to this topic

[Richard_]

Hello.

Ive got a 1989 Racing green ed. I believe the 1990 version had a lowered final drive ratio to make it a bit sportier but I also have read that this mod came in during late 1989 - So I'm interested to find out which one I've got. Driving-wise it does feel like the earlier version.

Does anyone know if there is any external clue indicating which type is fitted? or possibly someone knows a chassis number after which the change occurred?

 

Many thanks.

 

 

[KTS]

Guessworks engine decoder may help

 

 

http://www.guess-wor...Tech/engine.htm

[cooperd70]

I was under the impression that all 89/90 Racing/Flame/Checkmates came with 3.44

[nicklouse]

What were the Racing family based on? 
 

but the best way to see what final drive you have other than pulling the power unit is to drive at 1000rpm and check your seep with satnav/phone.

[Cooperman]

I think it is the same as the other 1989 998 Minis which is standard at 3.1:1.

The only differences between the Mayfair and the 'Racing' and 'Flame' were, I believe, the trim and paint finish.

On my Grandson's 998 Mayfair we changed to a 3.44:1 to make it go a bit better.

[Spider]

According to the factory workshop manual, for that era, the cars for the UK and Europe were fitted with the 3.1:1 but those for other markets had a 3.44.

[Richard_]

As KTS rather brilliantly suggested I used the GuessWorks site to come up with the following info;

Source Vehicle : Mini
Engine type & CC : A+ 998 cc Transverse mounted
Fueling : HS4 FZX1415 with Tamperproof Capstat, AAC Needle, Red Spring
Engine features :
Servo Assisted Brakes
1st Alternative compression ratio
95 Ron Unleaded petrol
Pre-engaged starter
ADO 20 Design variants
Gearbox features :
Std. Ratio Rod Change gearbox with Pot Joints
3.105:1 Final Drive

[Richard_]

I was under the impression that all 89/90 Racing/Flame/Checkmates came with 3.44

Interesting. Looks like I've got the earlier 3.1:1 version.

Edited by Richard_, 28 November 2022 - 08:39 PM.

[cooperd70]

I was under the impression that all 89/90 Racing/Flame/Checkmates came with 3.44

Interesting. Looks like I've got the earlier 3.1:1 version.

I've been having a dig and can't actually see any reputable resource that states the '89 was 3.44, so apologies, I was mistaken. The '90 cars were 3.44
A letter from John Cooper Garages:

Dear Mini Enthusiast, Spring 1990

Thank you for your enquiry with reference to our "John Cooper Conversion" available for Minis.

Please find enclosed our 1990 brochure together with our price list, Autocar/Motor supplement, also a specification sheet for your Insurance Company with reference to rating a modified car.

The "John Cooper Conversion" can be carried out on any new or recent Mini, including Mini City, Mini Mayfair and Mini Thirty. The Conversion is ideally suited to Rovers new 1990 Mini Racing, Mini Flame and Mini Checkmate, which now comes with a 3.44:1 Final drive fitted, as the Original Mini Cooper, they also sport Alloy wheels as standard.

The "John Cooper Conversion" is available through all Rover Dealers and of course John Cooper Garages Ltd. The Conversion is fully approved by the Rover Group and comes complete with full Warranty.

Should you wish to book your Mini into our Engineering department or have any questions you may wish to ask, please do not hesitate to contact us or your local Rover Dealer.

Yours sincerely

J MICHAEL COOPER M.I.M.I. MANAGING DIRECTOR JOHN COOPER GARAGES LIMITED

NOTE: Conversions are not available to cars fitted with Catalytic Convertors or with Automatic Transmission.