Take a classic motoring journey with John Quirk, a vintage Mini owner, as he goes from selling yard rescue, to restoration, to weekend motoring nirvana in his Paul Smith special edition Mini. What I especially appreciate about John’s description is his acknowledgement of the car’s imperfections — those things he’s willing to “forgive” because the car is so brilliant in so many other ways. I can definitely relate to that in my R53 Cooper S.
How does John’s motoring experience compare to yours? Does MINI retain that motoring joy for you? With the F56 on the cusp of reveal, what are you hoping for in terms of driving dynamics?
<p>I get more smiles per mile in my Classic on the back twisties compared to my R50 or R53, even when that car is on the track. When it comes to safety, ride comfort and reliability, however, there is no contest. I would love for the All 4 option to be available on all the third generations models so I can get on the power even earlier.</p>
<p>I’ve always liked the classics, but never driven one. I LOVE driving my R50, and can certainly feel about my car what he does about his, but now I feel like I’ve been missing something. 🙁 GREAT video!</p>
<p>Really nice video and really nice car. Makes me really want to get serious about finding a classic.</p>
<p>You and me both.</p>
<p>If only the classic had never been taken away from North America, I reckon it could have been as big as the beetle and secured the future of the British car industry. I urge anybody in America who’s missing out to find one on the continent or import one from abroad, just don’t steal them all off us Brits ;). I drive my Mini 1000 as much as I can when I’m home from university, it’s like owning a pet that you really really miss when you’re away!</p>
<p>Great car story, love his description of the quirkiness of
the driving position but you forgive it because it’s pure fun, so true.</p>
<p>Just makes me want to go get my Paul Smith out the garage and take him for a drive</p>