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Friday, May 6, 2011
In keeping with the tradition it started in 2001 by allowing famous fashion designers to play around with its vehicles for Europe’s biggest AIDS charity event, Life Ball, Mini will once again reveal a special one-off model at this year’s happening. After established names like Gianfranco Ferre, Donatella Versace, Diesel and Calvin Klein got their way with the MINI, this year the honor has been awarded to DSquared².
The designer duo formed by Canadian twins Dean and Dan Caten have revealed the initial sketches of the Mini Red Mudder, created exclusively for the 2011 Life Ball event that takes place on May 21 in Vienna. Described by the two designers as an “absolute Mini must-have for men”, the one-off model will be auctioned with proceeds going to projects fighting against HIV/AIDS.



Labels: Mini, MINI Concepts
Thursday, November 18, 2010
Inside the 2010 Clubman is a turbocharged 1.6 liter, I4 engine. This car mixes power with power with ease, as the car is started with a push of a button and the throttle is controlled entirely through the vehicle's electronic system. The transmission is a manual six speed Gertag. The turbocharged engine allows for a higher combustion rate, which increases your overall gas mileage. The reported miles per gallon for city driving is 26 and for highway driving it is 34.While it is not up to the aggressive driving abilities of its saloon cousin, it is very capable. Chances are you won't be driving it hard anyway as it will most likely be bought by families.

Labels: Mini
The engine in the 2010 model of the Mini Cooper Clubman is definitely an improvement from the model from 2009. While the differences are subtle, they serve to improve the vehicle's power and average city and highway gas mileage.
I wanted to hate this car, but ended up loving it. I am still not sure of the looks, but it does some how manage to capture the essence of the original. A family worker, which also brings a smile to your face. Worth a look in my opinion.

Labels: Mini
Sunday, July 18, 2010
I have always had a soft spot for the original design Mini. It played a part in my childhood and also my youth. Back in the 80's and 90's it seemed like almost everyone had one. Cheap, fun and good-looking little machines. I'd love to add reliable to that list, but they had various issues.




Labels: Mini
Friday, June 18, 2010
Overall, the 2010 and 2009 Clubman models are seemingly identical. They both offer an easy to use, push of a button technology and a powerful engine for it's size. You will feel more powerful behind the wheel of the 2010, however and will end up saving at the pump if you drive it regularly.




Labels: Mini
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
The main difference between the 2010 and 2009 Clubman is how the engine gets oxygen. The 2009 model has variable valve timing, or VVT engine and not turbocharged. The engine is still an I4 with 1.6 liters and a fully electric throttle. The VVT engine, however means that the oxygen is less compressed before it reaches the combustion chamber. This cuts down on this small car's "vroom" factor and lowers the reported gas mileage for city driving. The 2009 is rated to get 25 miles per gallon in the city.




Labels: Mini