Comments on: MINI vs. MINI

By: C4

C4 — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 20:27:16 +0000

The AISIN 6-speed slushbox behaves massively different when put into sport mode and/or using the steering wheel paddles. In one word, this tranny is the next best thing to a real DSG. The programming in the Clubman S makes for a fast shifting, yet precise shifting sequence and the power is just there. Normal mode is mostly OK for street driving. But if you want to experience the car, use the sport button, plus sport mode for the automatic.

I love my R53 S manual and concur with DB's comments on power delivery. Don't forget about the lovely supercharger/exhaust sounds when you drop the hammer on it.

The R56/R55 are fantastic car. But for MINIs they are a little too smooth and refined. Nothing wrong with that per se, but when you drive the R53 S you realize how much fun a MINI can really be, warts and all.

By: Ian C.

Ian C. — Fri, 04 Jul 2008 01:35:53 +0000

I totally agree with your comments on the auto – it was terrible on the cone track, but massively better in sports auto … simply a matter of holding higher revs, I guess.

By: Jon

Jon — Fri, 04 Jul 2008 00:24:29 +0000

My only problem with automatics is my left foot and leg get bored easily after what is way to many years with a clutch.

By: db

db — Thu, 03 Jul 2008 21:01:53 +0000

They are all my favorite!

But, really, the Clubman S with 6-speed gets my vote. I really liked the way it drove and the handling with the extra length was fantastic!

By: WD40

WD40 — Thu, 03 Jul 2008 16:56:57 +0000

DB, I enjoyed all of your MTTS coverage. So you got to drive all of the new MINI models back to back. Which one is your favorite, and why?