Tuesday the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration opened an investigation into potential power steering problems of the 2004-2005 MINI. The site lists this as involving MINI “Coopers” but we believe this could likely include both the Cooper and the Cooper S given that the agency says that this could involve about 80,000 vehicles.

If the power steering should go out the effort needed to turn the steering wheel (mostly at low speeds) would increase dramatically.

At this point MINI claims it has no confirmation on any accidents that may have been caused the issue. We’ll have more shortly.

BMW has a history of producing enormous amounts of parts and sitting them on shelves for many years. However when it comes to accessories long-term availability is something less than a certain thing. And when it comes to a new brand and a new sub-brand within it, you can imagine BMW was relatively safe with their production numbers. This all means that those R50/R53 JCW parts that you’ve been lusting after since 2005 have quickly dwindling inventories and could be gone within the year. Perhaps the most telling example is the full leather JCW steering wheel. According to our sources there are only two new examples left in the US parts system (dealers or warehouse). We’re told that invetories aren’t much (if any) better in Europe either. The leather/alcantara version (see our review here) is also in short supply but we’re told is in slightly better shape.

Other than the steering wheel we’ve also been warned that the R50 JCW aero kit (and to a lesser degree the R53′s) has dwindling numbers and could be gone soon as well.

Perhaps the most sad personally is the leather dash that we lavishly heaped praise on a few years ago. Most of those unique stitching color examples are gone and the black with contrasting red leather we reviewed is very low in numbers as well.

The worst part? MINI has no plans to produce any of these accessories for the R50/R53 again. They will simply become sought after collectors items on the best examples of first generation New MINIs.

Related:

+ MF Review: JCW Alcantara Steering Wheel (R53) / MotoringFile

+ MF Review: JCW Leather Dash / MotoringFile

Ah the CVT. The answer to all of our problems. Its step-less shifting was to be both good for performance and economy while giving you a wafting cloud like experience. That is until it fails costing the owner $8,000 to replace. It’s been a huge frustration for quite a few R50 owners who opted for the CVT over the manual with many failures happening just around the time the warranty expires.

One automaker who also embraced CVTs around the same time period is Nissan. In fact they are still putting them in cars while MINI has very publicly shifted back to torque converter automatics. And as you’d expect there are many Nissan owners with similar CVT failures. So much so that Nissan has just announced a doubling of it’s warranty to 10 years or 120,000 covering the CVT. In addition to that Nissan is also reimbursing owners who have already shelled out thousands on replacements overly slushy slush boxes.

At this point MINI hasn’t acknowledged the issue and it’s not clear that they will ever do so. However if you’ve had your CVT fail on your R50 MINI, make sure you’re voice is heard both at your local dealer and at MINI USA corporate. BMW has a history of eventually taking care of large scale issues. We have no idea if this will be one of them but it’s certainly worth taking up the ladder so to speak.

You can read the corporte letter to CVT owners from Nissan at Autoblog

Related:

Detailed Technically Assessment on the CVT / MotoringFile

Random Thoughts on MINI Loaners and the CVT / MotoringFile

MF Review: 2003 MINI Cooper CVT / MotoringFile

This should be available at any MINI dealer in the US (via special order).

[ Rear Plate PDC ] Official MINI PDF

Related:

[ Official Rear Parking Distance Retrolfit ] MotoringFile

We’re reposting this Ask MF originally from last year due to a number of similar questions we’ve gotten over the last few weeks.

This week’s “Ask MotoringFile” comes from Dave M and is quickly becoming a very common question:

I have a 2008 MCS on order and am relatively new to the MINI world. I couldn’t help but notice everyone using these code names for different models of MINIs. What does it all mean?

MINI models follow a similar system to the (seemingly ancient) BMW model internal naming convention. Since we often talk about different models (sometimes in the same story, paragraph or even sentence), using the internal model code-names is often the easiest way to quickly identify what model of MINI we’re referring to.

The first generation of BMW MINI’s started with the R50 which was meant to be the coupe version of the car. However once that model number was established BMW decided to produced a higher power version called the Cooper S. Because the development work was started later it was given a different code-name – the R53. The R52 was actually conceived before the Cooper S and thus has the code-name R52. And for those wondering, the R51 was a concept that never made it past the conception stages.

With the second generation MINI, BMW had things planned out a bit better. That meant the entire range of 2nd generation coupes would use the R56 code and the convertibles R57. The Clubman was designated R55 since initial work had started on the concept before the R56.

So why the big gap between the R57 and the new R60 SUV MINI? We’ve been told that is simply due to several concepts which have either been shelved or delayed.

If you ever need a quick reminder we have the cheat-sheet (seen below) on the lower left of every MotoringFile page. Each code-name links to the subsequent MotoringFile section for each car. A handy way to see all posts referring to individual models.

1st Gen MINI

• R50: One & MC Coupe
• R52: All 1st Gen MINI Convt.
• R53: MCS Coupe

2nd Gen MINI

• R55: Clubman
• R56: One/MC/MCS Coupe
• R57: One/MC/MCS Convt.
• R60: MINI SUV

BMW’s customer service told Heather this wasn’t a common fault, which is surprising because we’ve heard from dozens of other Mini owners who’ve told us they’ve had exactly the same problem, and have had to fork out anything up to £800 for the repair.

Not a common fault? Show of hands to those of you that have had power steering problems. As it turns out, we are not alone.

Matt Pike is an independent Mini mechanic, and a supplier of spare parts. He says he can barely keep up with demand for replacement power steering pumps: “At least 60 per cent of our regular customers have all had pumps changed. And we’re getting at least two calls a day from people after power steering pumps because they’re such a big failure. I’d say it’s the most common problem we have with the Minis.”

This is something that already happened to me and I think the unit I have installed now is also going bad. I also think I’m lucky in that it didn’t fail until almost 180K miles. I know many R53 owners who have had the power steering go out shortly after the warranty expires.

If you are in the market for an R50 or R53, take a minute to check out the R50/R53 Buyers Guide. Many of the issues that affected the first generation MINIs, including power steering, are listed here.

[ MINI Power Steering Failures ] BBC.co.uk

A sad ending to a great car. Here’s what happened courtesy of AUSmotive.com:

Ever wondered what happens if you drive your car over a mattress and just keep on driving? Well, wonder no more, as a thoughtful MINI Cooper S Cabrio owner has done the experiment for you.

As you can see from the pictures the result is not pretty (there’s two more pics after the jump). The owner had not long collected the car from a western Sydney dealer when she reportedly drove over a mattress of some description. Not realising something was wrong she kept on motoring. Soon enough, though, there was a distinct smell of smoke. The driver pulled to the side of the road and within minutes her new car was in flames and just as quickly it was a smouldering wreck.

+ Beds are burning / AUSmotive.com

It would appear that Cadillac is now doing the same in their latest television commercials.

Thanks everyone for sending this in!

If you have 18″ OEM MINI wheels on your car put on by the dealer, odds are you have the steering stop installed on your car. The reason? Apparently under extreme circumstances MINI found that the tires with this set up will rub the inner fenders slightly. Their solution? To restrict the steering angle enough to prevent it from happening. The downside? Increased turning radius.

However it’s worth noting that many owners without the steering stop and the 18″ OEM set-up do not experience any rubbing whatsoever. So that begs the question, why in the world would anyone want to install this on their car? We’re not entirely sure. So consider this as much as a installation guide as it is a un-installation guide for those who might have this kit on their car and either have switched to a different 17″ or 18″ set-up or simply want more turning radius.

Steering Stop | Official MINI PDF

Official MINI Release: Style icon, global player, “value master” and now already a classic. Now that around 164,000 units have been produced, the MINI Convertible of the current generation has reached the end of its production period. As planned, the MINI plant in Oxford ceased production of the open-top four-seater. The final specimen – a MINI Cooper S Convertible Sidewalk painted in metallic White Silver has been sold to a MINI fan in the USA. In the land of limousines, the nimble little automobile with the electrically folding soft top has won over a very loyal group of fans. Only on its domestic market of Great Britain and Ireland were more units of the MINI Convertible sold in the past four years than in the USA.

Similar to the MINI and MINI Clubman, the MINI Convertible has long since established itself as a globally successful model. Although around 77 percent of the total sales in the production period are attributable to the five major automobile markets – in addition to Great Britain and Ireland plus the USA, these are Germany, Italy and Japan – there are only a few untapped areas on the map of the distribution network. Australia and Canada also rank among the top ten of the MINI Convertible bastions and particularly high growth rates were recently recorded in China and Russia. The fascination of the open-top two-door automobile enchants people everywhere – irrespective of cultural differences and weather conditions. In chilly Scandinavia, almost twice as many people drive the MINI Convertible than in fair-weathered Greece; in Austria, there are at least five-times as many MINI Convertible drivers than in sunny Portugal.

At the Oxford plant, employees said a rather emotional farewell to the MINI Convertible. “For us, this is the end of an era”, said Plant Director Oliver Zipse. “It is a great joy to build a car and know exactly how much fun customers will have with it”. Due to the constant rise in demand, the British plant has until further notice reserved its manufacturing capacities for the models MINI and MINI Clubman.

Since spring 2004, the MINI Convertible has been built with three engine variants in Oxford. With more than 79,500 units, the bestselling edition was the 85 kW/115 bhp MINI Cooper Convertible, followed by the MINI Cooper S Convertible (125 kW/170 bhp), with around 56,500 units, and the MINI One Convertible (66 kW/90 bhp), with around 28,000 vehicles.

The MINI Convertible inspires fashion designers and Hollywood stars.

Right from the outset, the MINI Convertible established itself as a guarantor for driving enjoyment that evokes desire and inspires imagination. At the market launch of the new MINI in 2001, many fans were already longing for an open-top model, which at this time was already being very carefully developed under the aegis of the BMW Group, to be launched just three years later. The new body variant added a further facet to the unique MINI feeling. The brand’s typical sporty handling was now successfully combined with stylish open-air driving enjoyment. The aura of the MINI Convertible also inspired the fashion industry. At the sales launch, designers of the Italian lifestyle label Bisazza had the idea to enrobe the MINI Convertible in a dress of tesserae. More than 30,000 glass stones were used for this purpose. The result was radiant and unique design specimens. In the following years, further lifestyle and fashion labels created special designs as a result of the inspiration of the MINI Convertible. Just one year ago, the MINI Convertible even became a Hollywood star. In the comedy “The Heartbreak Kid”, the leading roles, played by Malin Akerman and Ben Stiller, went on honeymoon with it. The open-top MINI Cooper became a stage for lively dialogues and amusing disputes between the two newlyweds.

A very special MINI, an extraordinary Convertible.

The two-door vehicle secures its position as a very special MINI and an extraordinary Convertible with numerous unique features. Thanks to an integrated sliding roof function, the soft top can be opened 40 cm wide, even while driving up to a speed of 75 mph. In just 15 seconds, the soft top can be completely folded up behind the back seat.

Under the tailgate of the MINI Convertible, when the roof is closed, there is a boot that is 165 litres in volume. Its load capacity is an impressive 400 kilograms. And with the Easy-Load-System, even bulky luggage can be effortlessly stored by folding up the back part of the top and using the large opening to the luggage compartment to pass through the luggage. In conjunction with the fold-down back seats, the storage space can even be expanded to up to 605 litres.

The mixture of driving enjoyment, cleverly devised details, premium quality and expressive design have given the MINI Convertible a lead in the popularity stakes, which remained constant up until the end of its production period and will not wane even afterwards. The assessments of independent market experts, which give the MINI Convertible an unusually stable value rating, already indicate this. Back in 2007, the MINI Convertible was already dubbed the “value master” of all classes by the industry magazine “Auto Bild”. This was based on the pre-calculated residual value of 70 percent of the new price after three years. In the current ranking for 2008, the value stability of the MINI Convertible is only surpassed by one “competitor” from its own brand: the current MINI Cooper.

The R50/R52/R53 era is just a few weeks away from being officially over. The current MINI convertible (last of the R5x architecture) will be ending production in late June. That means ordering the last of the Tritec era MINIs will end just a few weeks before that. MINI expects convertible stock to be at near normal levels through the summer but to dwindle quickly through the fall.

The next generation R57 MINI convertible (based on the R56 and featuring a number of convertible specific improvements detailed in previous articles) will begin production this winter with sales to start in March of 2009.

After posting the R56 instructions yesterday, it occurred to us that we had never officially offered the first generation MINI’s grille badge instructions on the site. So if you have an R50, R52 or R53 and a few favorite magnetic MotoringBadge’s in mind, here’s your official DIY PDF straight from MINI.

[ R50/R52/R53 Grille Badge Holder ] Official MINI PDF

This is the first in a series of official releases by MINI USA that details the US spec 2008 line-up. While there may not be any new info in these releases for the current MINI owner, they represent a good read for those seriously looking at buying a MINI for the 2008 model year. Further convertible information can be found in the MotoringFile R52 section.

The MINI Cooper Convertible and MINI Cooper S Convertible: Genuine MINIThe MINI Cooper

Official MINI USA Press Release: Convertible and MINI Cooper S Convertible bring the fun of open to motoring to the MINI brand. The authentic four-passenger convertibles have been engineered from the ground up to be fun-to-drive cars while offering a high level of safety and practicality.

The design of the MINI Convertible does not compromise appearance, functionality and engineering, and remains honest to the MINI concept of go-kart-like performance with a recognizable “MINI” appearance from every angle.

Popular option groups like the MINI Convertible Sidewalk package and John Cooper Works kit remain for 2008. The Sidewalk package offers an exclusive look, featuring special light-alloy wheels, an attractive interior surface trim and leather upholstery developed specifically for the package. In addition, the package offers English leather sport seats in malt brown and Sidewalk interior surfaces and graphics. And the steering wheel comes wrapped in special Sidewalk sport leather.

The John Cooper Works kit remains a factory installed option for the MINI Cooper S Convertible. This performance-oriented option includes the engine-performance kit, limited-slip differential and the John Cooper Works brake kit.

Cool Convertible Concept

Following the concept Alec Issigonis used as his blueprint for the first generation Mini in 1959, the MINI Convertible utilizes its compact exterior dimensions while making optimum use of its surprisingly spacious four-passenger interior. And the stiff body/chassis package, combined with its sport tuned suspension, gives the MINI Convertible superior handling and agility.

The MINI Convertible is packed with sophisticated technology reinforcing MINI’s premium positioning within its market segment, most notably the fully automatic roof with a truly unique integrated sliding sunroof function and the expandable easy loading system to maximize accessibility to the rear cargo area. Other technology includes multi-arm rear suspension, runflat tires with a tire monitoring system and an available navigation system.

The MINI Convertible Roof – Two Ways to Enjoy Open Motoring

The MINI Convertible comes on the scene with a unique offering in the convertible market – an automatic convertible roof with an integrated power sunroof. The sliding sunroof on the MINI Convertible is designed with a rigid panel under the first section of the canvas. When the top button is first pressed, the section slides back along the top rails to create a16-inch opening overhead. The sliding sunroof can be operated while the vehicle is in motion up to speeds of 75 miles per hour, offering open-air motoring while on the go.

In its standard mode, the MINI Convertible’s roof goes from closed to open in just over 15 seconds. The roof operates at the touch of a button and does not require the manual release of any latches. Powered by an electro-hydraulic system, the top’s frame mechanism automatically unlatches and retracts. The four side windows lower automatically as the soft top folds neatly to the rear.

The ingenious and compact “z”-shaped folding mechanism lets the roof fold compactly to store behind the rear seats. Also, there is no need for a tonneau cover when the top is folded because the front section of the roof provides protection when the soft top is down.

The top operation can also be controlled by ingenious features built into the remote locking system. The key-operated remote locking system not only operates the doors, trunk and fuel door, but can open the roof and side windows from a distance of up to 50 feet.

The first press of the unlock button on the key fob unlocks the driver door. When the button is pressed and released a second time, the passenger door, fuel filler flap and rear boot lid all unlock. If the button is pressed the second time and held, all four windows lower and the sunroof opens up. Lastly, if the key fob button is released, then pressed and held for the third time, the convertible top will fully retract – all this can be done without opening a door.

The top can also be fully closed from outside the car. By inserting the key into the driver’s door lock, turning and then holding it in the locked position, the top will raise and fully latch, all four windows will close simultaneously and the doors and rear boot will automatically lock.

To top it off, the MINI Convertible top comes standard with a heated glass rear window helping to maintain a clear view even in inclement weather. The top comes in three colors, blue, black and green.

Room to Haul

Another unique feature of the MINI Convertible top is the easy load system. This feature allows the car to swallow up cargo through the rear boot in a very ingenious way: With the top up, the lower rear edge of the top can be unlatched from inside the cargo area. This allows the rear edge to swing up 35 degrees to increase the size of the rear opening (since the “normal” trunk lid opens by dropping down thanks to bottom-mounted hinges), easily allowing large items to pass into the cargo area. Due to the MINI Convertible’s very rigid body structure, there is no need for a cross member at the top of the rear boot opening, nor a need for a rear bulkhead behind the rear seats. This allows for 50/50 split rear folding seats that can easily accommodate large or awkward sized items.

With the top in the up position, trunk capacity is 5.8 cubic feet, and even with the top down, the trunk provides 4.2 cubic feet of luggage space. With the rear seats folded down, cargo capacity is increased to a remarkable 21.3 cubic feet. Maximum load capacity is 771 pounds. While the top is down, the rear seatbacks are lockable in their upright position, so luggage in the trunk is protected from theft.

A rear parcel shelf is provided for safety and security. With the top lowered, the rear parcel shelf acts as a shield for the rear glass window to protect it from possible damage by cargo in the trunk. The top has a safety feature whereby it will not lower unless the rear parcel shelf is properly installed.

With the top in the up position, the parcel shelf visually secures the rear cargo area so valuables can be stowed out of sight. The cargo shelf can be easily taken out when maximum cargo space is needed.

Taken from classic Mini design, the Convertible has externally mounted hinges on the rear trunk lid that is designed to swing down to open. These signature MINI hinges are further accentuated with the optional exterior chrome trim package. When open, the trunk lid is held in position by two supports, creating a practical loading platform capable of carrying up to 175 pounds – making the open bootlid a perfect place to hold a cooler or snacks when tailgating.

An added benefit of the boot lid opening downward is that it offers easier visibility and access to the rear cargo area without the need to bend down or duck under the open lid. The MINI Convertible also comes with a soft-touch electric latch release located in the trunk handle.

EXTERIOR:

Always a MINI, Top Up or Down

The MINI Convertible design combines sporty muscular styling with the functionality of a true four-seater, and yet looks like a MINI, top up or down. When closed, the roof of the MINI Convertible is slightly lower than the roof of the MINI hardtop; however the car still retains the signature MINI upright silhouette.

Due to the rigid structure of the car’s body, the MINI Convertible does not require a protruding B-pillar or a “basket handle” structure behind the doors. Additionally, the windshield is at an upright angle, providing more open space overhead. These design elements lend a feeling of spaciousness when the top is open and underscore that the MINI Convertible is a true open-top car.

British Bulldog

Like all MINI Coopers, the MINI Convertible’s most recognizable aspect is its face. The MINI Cooper Convertible sports distinctively designed front bumper, headlights and front grille. The smoothly sculpted front bumper comes with chrome accents, which, along with integrated fog lamps, add a look of elegance, all while retaining MINI’s signature bulldog look.

The MINI Cooper S Convertible continues to be distinguished by the design cues which underscore the performance provided by both what’s in the engine compartment and the engineering of the chassis. The air intake scoop on the hood provides a muscular appearance as well as feeding fresh air to the supercharged engine’s intercooler. The intercooler sits below a slight bulge in the hood, which is 1.6-inches higher than the standard hood. The MINI Cooper S Convertible also features body-color bumpers and three-slat grille, front and black, honeycomb lattice integrated into the lower valences.

The design of the front headlights provide enhanced illumination while adding a striking design element to the Convertible. The light produced by the halogen lamps is deflected through a reflector system which helps increase light efficiency. The MINI Convertibles also feature “Pathway Lighting,” a standard safety and convenience feature. When activated, this feature allows the headlights to remain lit for 30 seconds after the driver has left the vehicle. Optional Xenon headlights with automatic leveling make the transition from bright light to darkness more gradual.

Rear Quarters

The Convertible’s short rear overhang is integrated with the curves of the quarter panels and black rear-wheel arches, thus providing a sporting character for the car when viewed from a rear angle. The back-up lights are incorporated into the taillight design which feature clear covers. A black honeycomb trim insert between the two chrome strips on the rear bumper is reserved for the optional rear accessory fog lamp.

With the top fully lowered and stowed snuggly behind the rear seats, the Convertible takes on the look of a muscular sports car. The standard high-strength aluminum roll bars are visible just above the rear seats, adding to the car’s “street racer” appearance. The roll bars feature integrated rear headrests.

The MINI Cooper S Convertible comes standard with the roll bars trimmed in chrome and a set of centrally located, twin chrome-plated tailpipes integrated into the rear bumper. Speaking of chrome, the optional exterior chrome trim package adds chrome to the mirror caps, rear boot lid hinges and handle along with chrome trim strips in the front and rear bumpers. On the MINI Cooper Convertible the roll bars are trimmed in chrome as part of the package.

All MINI Convertibles come standard with PDC – Park Distance Control for added safety and convenience. The PDC sensors located in the rear bumper measure the distance from the rear of the car to other objects such as a building or another parked car. As the driver backs closer to these objects, the system will sound an alert inside the car that beeps more rapidly as the car gets closer to the object. The tone becomes constant at a threshold prior to the rear bumper making contact with the object. This feature makes the already easy-to-maneuver MINI Convertible even easier to park in tight confines.

Windows to the World

Like all MINI models, the MINI Convertibles feature frameless power windows. The convertible models are also equipped with a one-button express operation of all four windows. With the touch of a button located at the top of the windshield, all four windows can be raised or lowered simultaneously, making quick work of opening up the car to the elements. To ensure a tight, moisture-free seal, each side-door window lowers slightly when the door is opened, and then rises again when the door is shut. And as expected, all windows are tinted to minimize glare.

MINI Colors

The MINI Convertibles are available in 10 exterior colors. The Convertible’s side-view mirrors come in body color. With the three colors of the convertible top – black, blue and green – there are quite a number of choices for customers to personalize the color combination of their MINI Convertible.

Hot Wheels

The MINI Cooper Convertible comes standard with 15-inch light alloy wheels with a “Five-Star Rocket” design, mounted with standard, 175/65 R15 all-season tires. The MINI Cooper Convertible can be equipped with optional 16″ “Bridge Spoke” or “5-Star Blast” light-alloy wheels mounted with 195/55 R16 run-flat performance tires either as a stand-alone option or as part of the Sport package.

The MINI Cooper S Convertible comes standard with 16-inch” V Spoke” Spoke design light-alloy wheels mounted with 195/55 R16 run-flat tires. Optional sport wheels and tires for the MINI Cooper S Convertible include a set of 17-inch “Five-Spoke Bullet” or 17-inch “Web-Spoke” light-alloy wheels with 205/45 R17 run-flat tires. A further option is a 17-inch “Crown-Spoke” wheel mounted with either performance or all-season tires.

When the Sport package is ordered on the Cooper S Convertible, the 17-inch “Five-Spoke Bullet” wheels with performance tires come standard. However, customers have additional choices within the Sport package: one can choose the 17-inch “Crown Spoke” wheels with all-season tires or the 17-inch “Web-Spoke” wheels with performance tires for only $500 more. INTERIOR:

A Sporty Cockpit

The interior of the MINI Convertible and the MINI Cooper S Convertible have received the same attention to detail as the exterior. The highest-grade fabrics and surfaces complement the Convertible’s sporting characteristics.

The MINI Convertibles offer multiple interior colors including the exclusive water-resistant Sunrise Laser Blue upholstery – a perfect material for a car which will likely spend most of the time with its top down. There are eight different upholstery choices for the MINI Cooper Convertible and seven different for the MINI Cooper S Convertible. Other upholstery materials include cloth, leather and leatherette.

The dashboard and door-panel inserts are available in silver, anthracite and aluminum-style trim. Body colored interior trim – dashboard and door panels – is also available to match select exterior colors – five colors in the Cooper S and four colors in the Cooper. The door panels have a contoured handle, and at night the interior door handles are back lit for ease of locating them in the dark. There is also a courtesy light mounted on the bottom of the doors to illuminate the ground upon entering or exiting the car at night.

In addition to housing the overhead courtesy light, map lights and buttons for the fully automatic top, the overhead console also houses pinpoint lights. These amber diodes are illuminated when the headlights are switched on and cascade an unobtrusive ambient light over the center console to aid in easily locating switch gear or items in the console without the need to turn on the interior lights.

The large speedometer at the center of the dashboard is reminiscent of the Classic Mini and continues on the MINI Convertibles. In addition to a speed read-out, the center gauge cluster incorporates warning lights, coolant and fuel level indicators, and service-interval and tire monitoring system indicators.

In true sports car fashion, the tachometer is located directly in front of the driver on the steering column. If the car is equipped with the optional navigational system, the screen is located in the center gauge cluster and the speedometer is relocated adjacent to the tachometer on the steering column.

An optional Chrono Gauge Package is available and houses analog readouts for fuel level, coolant temperature, oil pressure and oil temperature. The gauge package is located in the center of the dash and is designed with contrasting sized and colored gauges, reminiscent of a fine chronograph watch. This option gauge package also requires the speedometer to be relocated next to the tach.

Adding an elegant touch reminiscent of classic British motorcars is the optional Chrome Line interior trim package which adds chrome around the gauges, air outlets, select dash switches, the parking brake handle and the cup holders.

The three-spoke leather-wrapped steering wheel, mounted on a height-adjustable column, adds to the sporting feel inside the Convertible. An optional multi-function sports wheel allows the driver to operate cruise control and radio functions without removing his or her hands from the steering wheel.

Front seat occupants get a supportive seat design with manual adjustments for height, fore/aft, rake and head-rest height. Contoured sport seats are available on the MINI Cooper Convertible and come standard on the MINI Cooper S Convertible.

Despite its small overall size, the MINI Convertible offers ample seating for four adults. Access to the rear seats is facilitated by wide-opening doors, as well as manual memory function front seats that move far forward. The rear seats are also ergonomically designed and utilize three-point safety belts.

Standard child-seat mounting latch points are also conveniently located in the rear seating area for the safe installation of one or two child seats.

SAFETY:

F.I.R.S.T. – Fully Integrated Road Safety Technology

The extremely stiff body of the MINI Convertibles offers occupants a high level of protection when combined with the standard safety features. These safety features include intelligent front airbags, seatbelt latch tensioners, belt force limiters, head / thorax side airbags, reinforced A-pillars, door beams and strong roll bars. This technology, in combination with a design engineered to manage the absorption of impact energy, offers fully integrated crash protection and occupant safety.

Extra Stiff

The stiff body structure on the Convertible does more than just provide excellent driving and handling characteristics; it is designed to redirect and absorb much of the impact energy away from the passengers and through the body in the event of a collision.

To enhance the already stiff chassis design of the MINI Convertibles, the floor and side sills are specially reinforced. These components are larger and even sturdier in the MINI Convertible, primarily through the use of additional lower B-pillar crossbars and floor pan stiffeners. High strength door beams are also incorporated into the vehicle structure to help reduce intrusion into the passenger compartment during a side impact.

High strength aluminum roll-over hoops behind the rear seats along with a reinforced A-pillar- windshield surround helps to protect occupants in the event of a roll-over. Through these additional reinforcements, the Convertible offers a high level of passenger protection while retaining precise and nimble driving dynamics.

In high-force frontal crashes, the MINI Convertible powertrain is engineered to “break away” and be pushed under the car as the impact forces are absorbed. This design helps channel energy away from the occupants and reduces the likelihood of intrusion into the passenger compartment.

Airbag Protection

The MINI Convertible comes standard with four airbags. In addition to the two front-mounted airbags, the MINI Convertibles’ two side airbags protect occupants in the event of side impact. These head/thorax airbags are concealed within the Convertible’s seat upholstery.

Additionally, the seat belt latch tensioners activate in the event of an impact and tighten the belts to reduce excessive movement of the belted occupants. The front belts fasten to the Convertible’s reinforced lower B-pillar; the rear belts attach to the high-strength rear roll bars.

Give Me A Brake

The MINI Cooper Convertible and the MINI Cooper S Convertible feature 10.9-inch disc brakes in the front and 10.2-inch disc brakes in the rear, providing optimum stopping power, with standard Anti-Lock Brakes (ABS).

Also standard are two other electronic brake control and stability systems offering excellent directional and driving stability, even in extreme situations. These systems include: Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD), which distributes brake forces between front and rear wheels, and, Cornering Brake Control (CBC), which prevents unstable conditions caused by lateral wheel load alterations in cornering situations.

Optional control systems include Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), which, when working in concert with the engine management system and braking system, helps keep the vehicle from losing lateral adhesion when pushed to its limits. Working with the ABS system, DSC is able to monitor and intervene in critical situations by applying varied brake forces on individual wheels and changing engine torque through the engine management system.

Run-flat Technology

Both the MINI Cooper Convertible and the MINI Cooper S Convertible offer run-flat tire technology. The reinforced sidewalls of the run-flat tires, along with heat-resistant rubber compounds help maintain the tire’s integrity even with a loss of air pressure. This technology helps to keep the deflated tire from completely collapsing or jumping off the rim while keeping frictional heat at a minimum.

The MINI Cooper Convertible comes with run-flat tires when the vehicle is equipped with the optional 16-inch wheels. The MINI Cooper S Convertible comes standard with run-flat tires when the car is equipped with either the standard 16-inch wheels or the optional 17-inch wheels. The MINI Convertible can continue for up to 90 miles at speeds up to 50 mph without air pressure in the tires.

As an additional tire safety measure, the MINI Cooper Convertible and the MINI Cooper S Convertible both come standard with a tire monitoring system. This system alerts the driver to any potential issue with regard to integrity of one or more tires.

When a tire loses pressure, its roll radius and circumference changes, which causes the wheel to rotate at a higher speed. The tire monitoring system uses the ABS sensors to compare the average rotational speed of each wheel in relation to the other wheels. If the average rotational speed of one wheel differs enough to fall out of the rotation average of all wheels – such as in the event of a loss of pressure – the tire monitoring system will alert the driver. The alert comes in the form of an audible chime and an amber blinking indicator light in the gauge cluster.

POWER TO THE PEOPLE:

Get Your Motor Running

The 1.6 liter four cylinder engines that power the MINI Cooper and MINI Cooper S hardtops are shared with their Convertible counterparts.

The engine block in both models is constructed of sturdy cast iron, which reduces engine noise and vibration. The cylinder head is aluminum, and features four hydraulically compensated valves per cylinder driven by an overhead camshaft with roller-type rocker arms.

The engine in the MINI Cooper Convertible provides responsive power and motoring fun. The normally aspirated 1.6-liter unit in the MINI Cooper Convertible generates a maximum output of 115 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and develops maximum torque of 111 pounds-feet at 4,500 rpm.

Convertible “S” Power

The MINI Cooper S Convertible features a 1.6-liter supercharged power plant. Performance output with its low-restriction exhaust and modified gear ratios is 168 hp at 6,000 rpm. This allows the S Convertible to accelerate from zero to 60 in just 7.0 seconds and achieve a top speed of 138 mph.

The additional performance of the MINI Cooper S is the result of the 16-valve unit’s mechanically driven supercharger and intercooler. The supercharger compresses the fresh air drawn in by the engine to a pressure of 0.8 bar. Since the air warms up in this compression process, it is then cooled by an intercooler before entering the combustion chambers, thus ensuring a significant increase in engine charge, output, and performance. Driven by a toothed belt, the compressor builds up torque until peaking at 162 lb-ft at a very useable 4,000 rpm.

The additional power produced by the MINI Cooper S results in increased thermal and mechanical loads on the power unit, requiring modification from the standard power plant to components such as the crankshaft, pistons, valves, radiator and engine management.

The MINI Cooper S Convertible has a Getrag six-speed manual transmission with performance-enhancing modifications to it gearing. By reducing the ratio of the first, second and third to fifth gears, a sprint from 50 mph to 75 mph in fourth gear takes just 6.1 seconds. The same exercise in fifth gear takes just 7.7 seconds.

Fuel consumption for the MINI Cooper Convertible is 23/32 miles-per-gallon city/highway for a combined fuel economy rating of 27 mpg. The MINI Cooper S Convertible has a ranking of 21/29 mpg city/highway for a combined rating of 25 mpg. The MINI Convertibles exceed government emissions standards and are clean enough to not require a complex exhaust gas recirculation system.

Drive-By-Wire

All MINIs utilize drive-by-wire technology, which converts gas pedal actuation into an electrical signal. This signal, in turn, is transferred to a drivetrain control unit, which ensures maximum performance and minimum emissions under all operating conditions. The system also optimizes torque, which makes the engine extremely responsive to driver inputs.

Automatic for the (Performance-Minded) People

The MINI Cooper S Convertible is offered with an optional six-speed automatic transmission including Steptronic mode and Steptronic paddles on the steering wheel. Unlike the MINI Cooper Continuously Variable Transmission, this new automatic transmission is a conventional gear-type transmission with a performance-tuned torque converter and fixed gear ratios which result in quick gear changes and a dynamic driving experience tuned specifically to match the MINI Cooper S’s sporty character. This new automatic transmission, is built by Aisin, and features the following gear ratios:

Transmission type: AISIN Automatic Gear ratio 1st / 2nd / 3rd 4,044 / 2,371 / 1,556 Gear ratio 4th / 5th / 6th 1,159 / 0,852 / 0,672 Reverse gear ratio 3,193 Final drive ratio 3.683

The unit also features Adaptive Transmission Control which allows the transmission to adapt to one’s driving style. For example, the transmission will build the revs longer between gear changes if it ‘knows’ the driver enjoys taking the car to its limits.

Automatic MINI: Continuously Variable Transmission with Steptronic

The MINI Cooper Convertible continues to be offered with an easy-to-operate continuously variable transmission (CVT), which also contains Steptronic control. Steptronic allows the driver to choose between normal automatic mode, which makes driving in city traffic easier, and a sporty driving mode with a six-stepped “semi-automatic” transmission. While being responsive to drive, the continuously variable transmission is compact and lighter than a conventional automatic transmission.

A CVT is different than a conventional automatic transmission. Where conventional systems need a torque converter, the CVT uses an electronically-controlled, oil bath multi-disc coupling. The transmission uses a fixed-length steel drive belt to connect two double cone-shaped belt pulleys which transmit the drive output from the engine, essentially offering infinitely variable transmission ratios.

Limited Slip = Performance Grip The MINI Cooper S Convertible can be optioned with a limited slip differential, a performance feature coveted by motoring enthusiasts. The limited slip differential helps to divert more torque towards the drive wheel with better traction, ensuring power is transmitted to the road more effectively. This helps to increase traction under acceleration or during cornering, resulting in improved handling and increased stability.

The unit, manufactured by GKN Driveline, is a torque-sensitive differential that manages torque output under acceleration and offers a 30 percent slip rate. This means, there is no loss of torque if the difference in grip between the two wheels is 30 percent or less. The system also allows the threshold for Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) to be increased without impeding the system’s safe intervention in slippery situations. The limited slip differential is available with the manual 6-speed transmission.

Service Interval Indicator The time between service intervals depends on each individual’s driving style. In some cases drivers can travel up to 15,000 miles before the next service is required. The system gathers data on the vehicle’s operating conditions, including things such as fuel consumption and average speed. When the system reaches its threshold, a light on the dashboard informs the driver when a service is necessary.

Warranty Coverage All MINIs come with a four-year/50,000 mile new-vehicle warranty, with a 12- year/unlimited- mileage corrosion rust-through warranty. Also part of the warranty package is MINI’s free three-year/36,000-mile, full- maintenance program which includes MINI’s Roadside Assistance Program.

SUSPENSION:

Low, Wide and Agile

The precise handling characteristics of MINI Convertibles are a result of having a low center of gravity, a wide track, a stiff body, a multi-arm rear axle with anti-roll bars and direct, quick-ratio steering. The MINI is a direct descendant of the classic Mini’s design philosophy, which was the first production vehicle to be engineered with a space-saving transverse-mounted power unit driving the front wheels. This design results in a low center of gravity and favorable 60-percent front/40-percent rear weight distribution.

Chassis and Suspension

As expected, the MINI Convertibles exhibit responsive handing due to the chassis design, which places the four wheels as far out to the corners as possible. Up front, the MINI Convertible features MacPherson-style struts and a firm anti-roll bar. Through the use of an additional axle bearing which allows both axles to be identical in length, the MINI does not exhibit “torque steer” when driven aggressively.

The MINI Convertible features a sophisticated multi-arm rear axle which keeps the wheels in full contact with the road at all times. And the rear anti-roll bar helps provide excellent road holding even under hard cornering and on uneven road surfaces, adding to the neutral driving characteristics of the car.

Go-Kart-Like Steering

Both the MINI Cooper and the MINI Cooper S Convertibles feature electro-hydraulic power-assist rack-and-pinion steering (EHPAS), which features quick ratio – 2.5 turns lock-to-lock – steering and thus an immediate response to steering input. The EHPAS is operated by a small electric motor which differs from traditional hydraulic-pump systems in that it only produces power-assist when the steering wheel is turned, This reduces the need for the engine to constantly drive the hydraulic pump via a belt, thereby adding to performance and reducing fuel consumption.

HIGH-TECH DROP TOP:

Electronic Systems

The MINI Convertible packs a lot of sophisticated technology into its modest dimensions. A high-tech data bus system or k-bus system is incorporated to enhance reliability and reduce the amount of cables, wires and connectors,

The k-bus system employs mutual data transmission where the same cables are used by multiple systems, thus reducing the amount of wiring required. Besides enhanced reliability, the k-bus system makes assembly much easier, reduces weight and allows for the simpler integration of additional functions such as rain sensors.

Other high-tech systems not usually found in cars of this class include an optional navigation system with a color display, PDC and the multi-function steering wheel.

Effective Anti-Theft

The MINI Convertibles come with Coded Driveaway Protection minimizes theft of the car without the key. Unless the computer chip in the key recognizes a random, rolling code in the car’s memory system, the car will not start. This system, when combined with the optional alarm system, will help reduce the chance of theft of a MINI Convertible.

The alarm system, with its own power supply, is triggered upon forced entry through the doors or windows, or by attempting to lift or push the car. The system works even if the roof is in its lowered position. An unauthorized attempt to enter the car causes the hazard warning lights to come on and the horn to sound for 30 seconds.

Crank Up the Tunes

The Convertible’s sound system has been designed to deliver sound performance suited for the car’s interior size and shape. The basic system features six speakers – four in the front doors and two in the rear side panels.

An optional Harman/Kardon system, featuring eight specially designed speakers and a digital amplifier, is available. When combined with the Digital Sound Processor, the system allows the driver to choose different quality audio patterns for each seat…

MINI also offers a multitude of audio upgrades, some as dealer installed accessories, including Sirius Satellite and HD radio. An available MINI iPod adaptor is also available as a dealer installed accessory to seamlessly integrate the functionality of Apple’s iPod into MINI’s audio system controls. A six-disc CD changer located in the boot is also available as a dealer installation. And Bluetooth technology is available through a hands-free mobile phone package allowing the driver to operate a compatible phone through the vehicle’s sound system.

[ Rear Plate PDC ] Official MINI PDF

Related:

[ Official Rear Parking Distance Retrolfit ] MotoringFile

Here’s a question I’ve personally received from a couple readers:

Hi guys, I have a quick question for Gabe. I notice when looking at photos of your R56 JCW Cooper S that your headlights are completely ‘clear’. By this I mean that when you purchase ‘white signals’ from Mini as an option you still see an orange bulb when looking at the headlights head on. Now for the obvious question, what have you done to make it completely clear? Did you change the bulb out and if so would you mind letting me know where I can purchase it and the part # etc. Thanks so much.

Great question with an easy answer. I’m using bulbs you can actually buy from your local BMW dealer. They’re made for BMWs but fit in your MINI perfectly (any model). The BMW USA part number is: 63 21 7 160 897. If that doesn’t work, just ask for “Silvervision” bulbs.

And yes, these bulbs should fit in all other MINIs as well.

Dropping the top on this car is easy. Just leave your finger pressed on a button for about fifteen seconds, and that’s it. It’s pretty hot this week, and when the top is down, the climate control has a hard time cooling the lower portion of the cabin. When the top is up, it’s better.

Climate control with the top down? I can only wonder if the windows were rolled up as well.

On the highway, though, this Cooper cabriolet is noisy. The engine spins at over 3,000 rpm while driving at 110 km/h, and with the wind noise (top up or down), the cacophony becomes tiring after a while. Let’s just say that if I was driving down to Old Orchard Beach, I’d think twice or even three times before choosing this car to get there.

I don’t think they hated this MINI, but I also don’t think they were huge fans.

[ 2007 MINI Cooper S Cabriolet Sidewalk Road Test ] Auto123.com

[ R52 2008 Order Sheet ] Official MINI USA PDF

MF Exclusive: MINI USA is staying the course and will not being raising MINI Convertible prices for 2008. Here’s the full pricing run-down for the R52 in its last year of production:

• 2008 Cooper Convertible = $21,950+$650 D&H= $22,600
• 2008 Cooper S Convertible = $25,400+$650 D&H=$26,050

MINI USA has also simplified (and at least in one case lowered) option pricing a bit with the following prices:

• $100 – Inexpensive must-haves
• $250 – Cool gizmos
• $500 – Bargains at any price
• $750 – Mostly wheels
• $1000 – Cloth/Leather
• $1250 – Automatic (reduction)
• $1500 – Most packages and leather
• $2000 – Navigation
• $4000 – Sidewalk
• $6000 – JCW

For all the 2008 details as they relate to the R52 MINI Convertible, check out the official PDF pricing sheets below:

[ 2008 MINI Convertible Pricing Sheet ] Official MINI PDF

Keep an eye on MotoringFile for the rest of MINI USA’s official 2008 pricing in the coming weeks and days. We can also expect MINIUSA.com to reflect these changes around September 1st.

Look for DaimlerChrysler (soon to be just Daimler) to make a quick sale. As reported on MotoringFile last winter, the current rumor is that several Chinese automakers are interested in either the plant or the raw materials and know-how to produce the engines in Asia. Currently the only other car (beyond Euro versions of the PT Cruiser) that uses the Tritec engine is the Chinese built Chery A105 sedan.

Here’s the official BMW Group press release:

The BMW Group has transferred its shares in Tritec Motors Limitada to DaimlerChrysler’s Chrysler Group effective as of July 11, 2007. The companies – who each held half of the shares in the Brazilian engine plant – have agreed not to divulge the details of the transaction, which is subject to administrative registration and regulatory approval. Chrysler Group has assumed the responsibility for exploring long-term options for the Tritec operations whereby all possible alternatives for continuing the business for the long run are under analysis. This may include a sale of the facility to a third-party.

Tritec Motors was founded in 1997 by the BMW Group and the Chrysler Group for the production of 1.4 and 1.6 litre four-cylinder petrol engines. The engine plant is located in the town of Campo Largo in the region of Curitiba, in the Federal State of Paraná, southern Brazil. Large-scale series production started in January 2000; the plant’s annual production capacity is around 250,000 units.

Of course, the MINI made the list, in convertible form no less.

Sporting two more seats than a Mazda Miata and just about as much fun to drive, the Mini Cooper Convertible is for those who aren’t quite ready to leave childhood behind.

Day to day, it’s easier to live with than a pure sports car, and even in its base version (shown here), it’ll put a smile on your face and on that of just about everyone else around.

[ 10 Great First Cars ] money.cnn.com