ALT-1 The Original Mini
I recently had the opportunity to spend some quality time in a mini. No not the modern reliable BMW version, but the original. A 1986 Austin mini complete with right hand drive. This particular car was brought from England by the owner when he moved to Canada. I have seen minis from this era on the road but never up close. To say that this car is small is an understatement.It has been said that the original mini handled like a go-kart. That seems likely, it is not much bigger than one. The owner had done some performance upgrades. The engine received a racing camshaft, double valve springs and larger pistons. The output is 85Hp and 105 lb-ft of torque. By today's standards that is, well weak. Or is it? That power comes from a one liter inline 4 cylinder, which could be removed from the car without any lifting apparatus. So obviously this car is light.On the inside there are four seats, of which two can be used by a normal human. The front seat were actually removed and set a few inches further back. This eliminates the back seat from the need for seat belts as no one would ever fit back there. Seriously not even a child. With the driver and I, both over the six foot mark, there was no hope of that personal space most people enjoy in day to day life. We felt and probably looked like sardines.On the road this car has a surprisingly smooth ride. Even with suspension modifications only the really big bumps are noticeable. The tires are 12" Kumho Falcons. They provided an amazing level of grip And yes we conducted a thorough test of the tires on a very spirited ride through twisty back country roads. This car really flies. On the twisty roads we rarely applied the brakes and never heard any tire squeal.On the highway The little engine makes a lot of noise, and over a log period of time it would become to much. The seats are not particularly comfortable. There is no sound deadening insulation inside, and the muffler must be for show only.But all these discomforts are part of this cars appeal . It has a charm, a sort of charisma about. Although it is not the fastest or sportiest car it is truly unique. A quality modern cars seem to be loosing as smaller companies are enveloped by large conglomerates.The modern incarnation of the Mini is a nice fun vehicle, but no way will it get as many thumbs up by other drivers. Or nearly the number of stares.
