Mini Magazine Summer 2020
Mini Magazine: the perfect magazine for anyone who wants to get the best out of their classic Mini. Rammed with technical features, advice, inspirational feature cars and plenty of reader involvement. Please note: This digital version of the magazine does not currently include the covermount items or content you would find on printed newsstand copies
in this issue
welcome
So here we are - getting used to the new 'normal'. As the UK closed down at the end of March, 'we' as both a Nation and as motoring journos, made changes to our day to day lives that were unprecedented. I count myself very lucky to do what I do for a living, I enjoy freedoms in my day-to-day life which I know many can only dream of, and our place of work usually entails a stunning Mini of some description, a camera and a good chat - about Minis... It was a shock realising that just being friendly, offering a hand to shake, or even stopping to talk could suddenly become a matter of life or death. It goes without saying, we followed the deadlines and withdrew. But we…
tooled up
When you meet someone like Tom Carter, you’re reminded that from the very beginning, the Mini scene has always been about innovation and creativity. And sometimes, just trying left field stuff because you can. Some of the greatest ideas and builds have come from people who have had a brainwave and thought they’d give it a go – some reasonably sensible, some right out there on the limits… Tom’s Mini encapsulates that way of thinking, and it’s here because he just gets stuck in and makes things happen. He’s a mechanic by trade, and thanks to his equally car mad Dad, grew up around classic cars. So even before working on motors became the day job, he knew his way round a workshop and already had an impressive array of skills. “Just…
tech spec
BODY 1990 Mini Studio 2 shell. Six point rollcage. ABS Motorsport Clubman ST fibreglass front on BMW E46 boot hinges and aero catches. MkI/MkII Golf front indicators. 10 gallon fuel cell. Battery relocated to rear seat base. ENGINE 1.8 Turbo K-series, standard GT20 turbo. Kmaps 200bhp ECU map. Fabia VRS intercooler, AEM 400lph fuel pump and Bosch filter. AEM fuel pressure regulator. Fletcher radiator, Corsa C header tank. Custom turbo manifold and downpipe. Remote mount oil filter. Custom alternator mount on subframe to clear front. SUSPENSION Hi-Lo suspension. Mini Sport rose jointed bottom arms and tie bars. Lower ball joint droppers. TRANSMISSION Five speed manual. Custom gear change and cable clutch set up. Allspeed subframe custom gearbox mount for PG1. Custom sleeved driveshafts. BRAKES 8.4 inch discs, drums rear. WHEELS AND TYRES 13x7 Superlites with Yokohama…
the new mini countryman
The biggest member of the MINI model family, has been updated, with additions to the equipment range and new innovative technology. The latest version focuses on optimising internal space, versatility, functionality and ride comfort. The MINI Countryman Plug-In Hybrid ALL4 combines efficiency and hybrid-specific all-wheel drive with the option of pure electric driving. In addition to plug-in hybrid drive, the new MINI Countryman is also available with two petrol engines and one diesel engine featuring the latest MINI TwinPower Turbo Technology. The engines already meet the emissions standard Euro 6d, which will not be binding until 2021. All three engines can be combined with the all-wheel drive system ALL4 on request. Highlights of the new design include distinctive front design with newly designed radiator grille, LED headlamps and LED fog lights now…
getting back on track
• Motorsport UK, the national membership organisation and governing body for British four-wheeled motorsport, has announced how it proposes to restart the sport after the current suspension ends on June 30th. Consultations between stakeholders from across the sport and Motorsport UK’s specialist committees have taken place to conceive how the sport can be restarted at the appropriate time while adhering to the government’s prevailing guidelines. Motorsport takes place in large outdoor environments, so it’s hoped that with practical measures in place, much of it can resume as long as changes are made to established protocol. Details of the Motorsport UK’s ‘Getting Back on Track’ guidance can be found together with updated event declaration documentation by visiting www.motorsportuk.org/restart…
swindon powertrain
• Swindon Powertrain’s High Power Density (HPD) EV system is now available for customers to order, with deliveries starting in August. Suitable for OEMs, niche vehicle manufacturers, electric car conversion companies as well as the enthusiast home mechanic, prices start at just £6,400+VAT for the 80kW motor, transmission and differential with options for cooling, inverters and limited slip differential also available. “It’s now easier than ever for anyone to convert a car, truck or even quad bike to electric,” says MD Raphaël Caillé. “HPD is a new, properly engineered system with a years’ warranty. With deliveries starting in August, now could be the ideal time to start planning a project.” Customers placing orders from this week are scheduled to receive their system in August. “Despite the challenges the world faces, it’s a…
