The MINI community is a like second family to me bringing me together with the greatest and NOT NORMAL individuals far and wide together.

Its been 3 years of MINI Madness with my JCW and nearly 2 years since I started my blog.

I brought my JCW unwittingly knowing I would travel across the UK & International to meet with fellow MINIacs.

It was a life changing event when I did MINI UNITED 2012, which gave birth to my blog and created my passion for all things MINI.

Along the way I have gained new friends and followers alike who cant wait to meet me, read or see what I have been up to.

It is the passion of the MINI community which has kept me going through the happy times and the sad ones.

I am truly grateful to call you my friends as all of you are like family to me as your comments and message have always put a smile on my face.

Late 2013 I came across this LITTLE but LARGER than life MINIac called LilCoopr on Instragram.

I have always thought I was the only MINIac writing about his adventures but little did I know this Canadian candy has been at since 2005 ps I do like a bit of competition – www.lilcoopr.com

I began speaking to Christina and it was apparent the MINI Passion ran deep as swapped stories on how it all began and our current MINIs. As we Skyped away and sent each other dumb witty messages on every social media platform possible, it was strange to feel such as a connection with someone I had never meant before. Every time we talk its like an occasion some what reminiscent of when you catch up with an old friend but any communication begins that ‘HEY Ali!’ which always puts a smile on my face : D

Sometimes I would look down to see how long we had been talking to find we spoke for 4 hours or my phone battery is literally dying with 4% battery life left.

I wish I could record half of the conversations we have as hilarity ensues every time we talk.

I wasn’t happy about MINI UNITED not happening in 2014 which I can forgive given the release of the F56. This lead on to the discussions of when would be the next one? Psssst MINI make sure its in Germany as I want to go around the Nurburgring and hit the autobahns

To my amazement Christina has been to virtually all of them expect one!!! She missed out on 2005 in Misano, Italy because of university exams. This means I have physically walked past her a few times without knowing back in 2009 and 2012!!! Its truly is a MINI World.

Here is what makes it even more mind-boggling, she stood a meer few feet away from while Paddy Hopkirk spoke about his Monte Carlo win.  She has actually interviewed GP Garry (one of the members of the fast five) at MINI UNITED 2012 about his infamous speeding ticket in Monaco.  I must have been off somewhere else but I did see someone in quite distinctive pink clothing hmmm

Personally I only work in black. And sometimes very very dark grey

This lead to the discussion of me having the urge to go on a MINI Adventure and wanting to go to the US given 50% of my followers are from the US. I thought there would be no other better way to meet them than on a road trip in a MINI.

Christina told me all about MINI TAKES THE STATES from the destinations and MINI Mates she has made along the way. I was SOLD and the planning began for the trip in 2014 with registration, flights, hotels etc.

This is gonna be another trip of a lifetime being surround by MINIs & MINIacs!!! In all honesty who wants to sit on the beach, relax and get a tan. Right?

Can this top MINI UNITED 2012???  I drove on the greatest roads within Europe with arguable the greatest MINIacs ever??

But don’t worry I wont be alone as Christine and Phil of the Fast Five will be joining me to fly the flag for the UK on this trip

We will be more like the 3 amigos this time as only 3 of the fast five will be in attendance

I have partnered with White roof radio to do MTTS 2014,  I will be riding shotgun in a selection of MINIs throughout the road trip.

What is White roof radio???

The World Famous White Roof Radio is Don Burnside, Todd Pearson, Gabe Bridger, Nathaniel Salzman and Chad Miller. Every week they get together and talk about MINI Cooper news and information like they like to do.

Basically its a Podcast about all things MINI which goes live every week with the latest and greatest MINI news. There always seems to something GP related or the topic steers towards that…

The podcast was started by Don Burnside because he wanted to contribute something to the MINI community above and beyond his personal motoring blog and being more curious than the average bear, Don Burnside (db) decided to jump on the podcasting bandwagon.

He started with an awful tour of his site, followed by a not-quite-as-bad review of online music services. But something was missing.

Enter Todd Pearson. He had the same idea about doing a podcast. He actually heard db’s first 2 and had done 1 on his own. He emailed and asked if db would be interested in joining forces. Of course he did! But he was right in the middle of figuring out how to do the intro for #2. So, he ignored him.

Got #3 all finished up with quite a few positive comments. Then db went ahead and contacted Todd about doing that joint podcast he mentioned.

They did #4, which caught the attention of ace MINI news guy Gabe Bridger who kindly posted a link to their first joint effort and shortly thereafter was the first guest of the podcast.

The rest, as they say, is history.

I have spoken to Don over the last few years so its gonna be weird finally meeting after talking to him by email and online

But fear not you will be able to spot me from a MILE away with my infamous black hat and my dashing good looks accompanied by my apparent sexy English accent

Don’t shy away from saying Hi to me as I will be more than happy to talk and see your MINI too

My first question will be ‘Manual or Auto?’ so be ready to answer correctly with Manual ; )

I will be bringing some custom MINI Swag with me so keep an eye out for some random freebies

Sadly my love of my life aka The Misses aka The Dark Knight aka my JCW wont be joining on the MINI BIG Adventure due to the cost of £3,000 to ship her over

Make sure you are subscribed to my Facebook, Instagram and Youtube channel as we will be vlogging, post images and videos of my trip from start to finish.

Our Facebook & Instagram account will be regularly updated with images and info of what I am doing

All that is left now is for me to touch down in San Francisco to go all the way!!!

10,000 plus miles, 18 states, 15 cities, 2 infamous MINIacs, 1 MINI and 1 epic road trip

MTTS Coverage

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The post The BIG MINI Adventure: MINI TAKES THE STATES 2014 appeared first on JCW Adventures.

I didn’t think I would be here when I went into the dealers to spec my JCW. Little did I know my choices and persona would translate in my JCW being loved the world over. I was that kid who picked up car magazine and flicked through them, wondering one day I could own a car just like that. Modern MINI Magazine gave me that chance for my JCW to grace its cover for MINI owners and for some kid to look up to my JCW.

I have always said that my JCW changed my life and it did, when I showed you ‘My MINI Story’ late 2013. The road to this moment was hard given the pain in 2011 but it was a blessing in disguise with my JCW keeping me going. Along the way the JCW has changed and so have I with the people I have met across the world. I still scratch my head on how a car can bring so many different people together because of their love of MINI.

It’s soon coming to 3 years since I drove my JCW out of the showroom and BT11 WRK was brought into the world, so I wanted to do something special to mark this occasion. I contacted MINI Modern Magazine about having a feature and asked for some tips on becoming a automotive journalist and Sarah didn’t shy away from helping me. I truly appreciated her advice and took it forward be contacting various local newspapers and media outlets for  a freelance or voluntary roles but sadly I was unsuccessful so I carried on with my website.

Some people have mocked it, I have told my big organisations my publication isn’t big enough to allow me access to events and I have been called a ‘talented amateur’. From all those negatives all it takes for a single person to come over to me at show just say I have read the blog and follow you on instagram for it all to vanish. It’s the passion within me that drives me, the loyal supporters and that random person saying ‘Nice car’.

People have asked why the batman references in my online presence and JCW?  Because Bruce Wayne lost everything dear to him and all that money he couldn’t do anything. Yet through his pain, suffering and angry he was shaped into The Batman a character which I have watched from my childhood to the present day. The caped crusader has battled with his inner demons and his direct opposite The Joker whilst sticking to his strict code of not killing and doing the right thing. I could do on for days I how draw upon this fictional character but I secretly wished I was a billionaire philanthropist and had my own Alfred.

Will you wanting the Batpod, Sir? In the Middle of the day Alfred not very subtle. The JCW then?

You can read into as much as you want about me or Batman but the ‘Dark Knight’ nickname wasn’t given to my JCW by me but instead of other MINI owners after meeting me. But you will have to wait a bit longer for me tell you the meaning behind my Instagram name of D4rkhorse…

The email came through in the middle of the 2013 nearing the end of the show season, Modern MINI Magazine wanted to do a feature on my JCW and wanted arrange a date for the shoot. I was contacted by James Wallace aka Jimbo a freelance car photographer who is outright car nut!

Here is his story

I’ve loved cars and everything with wheels ever since I could bury Micro Machines and Matchbox cars in my Mum and Dad’s garden as a littl’un.

That genuine passion and enthusiasm for everything automotive miraculously turned into a job as the Deputy Editor for VW GOLF+ magazine back in 2003. Fast forward to 2010 and the decision to try my hand as a freelance snapper and writer has seen my work published in Performance VW, Volksworld, Camper + Bus, Miniworld, Classic American, VW GOLF+, Total BMW, Fast Car, Performance BMW. Redline and Retro Car magazines.

Primarily it’s a passion before a job and the people who have spent months, years, even decades building their dream machines deserve someone who cares about the results as much as they do

Top Bloke!

For more info here is his website

You see what I mean that he loves his car and being around them so you can imagine the time he had around me and the JCW.

With a time and date set, I got my Mr Miyagi on for my JCW’s big day

The next day James arrived at my house so we could travel together to my photo shoot location of choice and as luck would have it rained : /

With introductions done and the JCW met we rolled out together to Cannock Chase the location of the photo shoot. The CQuartz  coating and CarPro Reload were working their magic at motorway speeds as the beading was insane as the JCW was self drying. By the time we got the Cannock Chase all I had to do was to blast the JCW with a quick detailer and she was ready to go.

You might be wondering what Cannock Chase is?

Cannock Chase is located between Cannock, Lichfield, Rugeley and Stafford. It comprises a mixture of natural deciduous woodland, coniferous plantations, open heathland and the remains of early industry, such as coal mining. In short its like a national park/area of beauty but it happens to have long straights and some twisites which was perfect for my shoot as I didn’t want the generic parking lot or graffiti wall backdrop as I am NOT NORMAL.

I found a spot which was perfect because it allowed plenty of space for different shooting angles, backdrops and rolling shots.

I parked up her up to the backdrop of the forest and clear blue skies

Jimbo whipped out his camera gear and began working his magic whilst all the walkers, cyclists and drivers buzzing around came to a stand still as they saw the flashes and peperami action (that’s not a typo – Ali G movie reference).

We had a great little chats about how I went about choosing a JCW after I test drove a lot of cars before settling on ordering a JCW

Jimbo had a few cheeky stories to tell which brought a smirk to my face as he said the birds love the MINI

I dived into the history of my JCW, MINI UNITED 2012, national geographic shoot and all the people have met along the way

The feature on my JCW is for everyone to see how my MINI changed my life and that is more than the some of its parts while being a personification of my personality.

What I loved about working with James was hee understood that every car has past and every owner has a story.

He wasn’t mucking about when he was taking SHOTS as he began to lying down on wet mud???

I was like what are you doing mate?  I can great a shot from down here!

You sure James? Yeah I am fine mate

What about your clothes? Doesn’t matter

A real photographer and car lover going above and beyond his duty

As we began getting some great shots it started to rain so everything got packed away but we were back at again it as it was short sharp showers but it was a constant battle as mother nature had other ideas. I was constantly drying down my JCW whilst James was trying not to get the gear all soaked whilst flashing away with the camera.

After all the still shots were done we went for some rolling shots as I wanted to show off the DRLs given the lack of MINIs having them plus I knew a nice little section of road with a banking corner which would look amazing. Yet again it rained and whilst James sat amongst the grass, mud, stones and drive by traffic near the road like a ninja and took shots of the JCW coming full throttle out the bends and driving past him as I went the other way for multiple runs.

As the batteries and memory cards filled up or ran of juice the shoot came to an end with me only seeing a few images on the little camera back screen I knew I had to wait till the next issue of Modern MINI Magazine before I would see them which made the drive home gut wrenching.

As the days rolled past and last event of the MINI show came to a close and winter drew in everything was quiet expect my inbox when James emailed back saying the write up needs to done to fill the pages of my feature. I filled in the questionnaire and sent it back which was returned with a phone call from James saying you couldn’t have it even more passionate if you hand the keys to me for a week. I am just happy to share my story with everyone and I hope everyone enjoys reading as I am only a newcomer to the MINI scene since the summer of 2012.

To mark the 2nd year anniversary of jcwadventures.com I will be flying over to the states to do MINI TAKES THE STATES but I will be bringing along two members of The Fast Five (Christine and Phil) so look out for the infamous black and English accent. I am riding shotgun with LilCoopr aka Christina in her Cooper S Convertible ‘Stell4’ and I couldn’t think of a better person do the trip with!!! She is another MINIac who has deep-rooted passion for the brand and our MINIs are very much personification of our individuality.

Why not ship over The Misses? I looked into it and it came to £3,000 which is too much consider without me selling a kidney

I am most looking forward to meeting alot of my US Instagram followers and supporters of the website

Back to the flashing lights! My JCW will be gracing the cover Modern MINI Magazine on this month – 28.03.14

It is available to buy in all good news stand and news agents in the UK

For the digital techies and international readers it is available to digital download on the App store & Android by searching for – Modern MINI Magazine

I would like to give a special thank you to Sarah of Modern MINI Magazine for publishing my JCW and being great person to talk for advice and all things MINI.

James thanks you for making The Misses look sexy and putting up with the rubbish weather. I don’t know how you put with me for a few hours but I am truly thankful for the shots and  immortalising my JCW to pages of Modern MINI Magazine.

www.modernmini.co.uk

Next Blog Post: F56, GP2 & R56 model range reviews 

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The post Behind the Lens: Modern MINI Magazine Photoshoot appeared first on JCW Adventures.

MINI and Porsche are two brands close to my heart because of their heritage in motor sport and their engineers relentless pursuit for driver focused vehicles.

Yet both the MINI and 911 became icons to many people for various reasons and instantly recognise worldwide to the mass market. But dig deeper into both manufacturers history there is a lot more than meets the round headlights…

The 911 and MINI were ahead of their time from an engineering and design stand point.

The MINI was designed to fit a specific criteria: small dimensions, large interior space, utilise existing parts and cheap to manufacture. The engineering team cleverly engineered the front wheel drive layout to utilise the same oil sump for the gearbox and transmission thus giving a compact design. The radiator was mounted at the left side of the car so that the engine-mounted fan could be retained, but with reversed pitch so that it blew air into the natural low pressure area under the front wing.

The suspension system designed by Dr. Alex Moulton used compact rubber cones instead of conventional springs. This space-saving design also featured rising progressive gave a rate springing of the cones and provided some natural damping in addition to the normal dampers. Built into the subframes, the rubber cone system gave a raw and bumpy ride accentuated by the woven-webbing seats. The rigidity of the rubber cones together with the wheels positioning at the corners of the car gave the Mini go kart-like handling.

Little did British Motor Corporation (BMC) know they would create an icon and a runaway success when all they wanted to do is make an affordable car for the masses during the fuel crisis of 1956.

The Porsche 911 was destined to be a replacement model for the Porsche’s first car the 356. The 911 aim was to be a much more powerful, larger and more comfortable car. Strangely the name would have never came about if it wasn’t for the Peugeot’s trademark as Porsche wanted to call the 911 the 901. Peugeot protested on the grounds that in France it had exclusive rights to car names formed by three numbers with a zero in the middle.

Porsche were seen to be quite mad at the time to have the engine at the back which still doesn’t make sense to this day given the weight out the back. Yet despite this strange layout the Porsche arguable build the worlds best handling cars.

Yes old 911s will kill if you’re not fully focused or back off mid corner hence ‘The Widow Maker’ moniker but the modern 911 is a driver friendly car that will not try to kill you every 5 minutes like Cato from Pink Panther. But the boxer engine was fine engine choice as they offer a low centre of gravity and reduce body roll given the compact and even motion of the engine.

I did say MINI is the new Porsche and meant it as both brands have moved forward through their generations, so has the demands of their owners and customer markets often against their purists wishes…

Both brands have entered the SUV/Offroader market to keep them afloat. This opened the door to the  mass market to increase sales number and profits in the forever diversifying world of 4 door coupe, luxury offroaders, compact SUVs, etc. I personally have no problem with both brands making 4×4 as it just means for money for R&D and performance variant models like the JCW, GP, GT3 RS, 918 Spyper and so on.

2002 saw the introduction of the Porsche Cayenne to cries of Porsche pursuits every saying the SUV would ruin the brand. Yet the model has been a runaway success and the 2nd generation arrived in 2010 with even better credentials. Autocar pegged a 911 against the Cayenne around a track and the difference was shocking given there was only a few seconds between them. Yes an £82,000 Cayenne Turbo was used against a 911 Carrera 4s yet the fatty Cayenne was 1.2 seconds behind it on a handle course.

2010 ironically saw the official unveiling of the Countryman to outrage of MINI fans worldwide but again the model has been success! In 2013 saw the 250,000 Countryman being sold and shipped across the world. A lot of people have said MINI has gone way from what the brand means literally given its name. Yes I didn’t like when I first saw it but I loved the look of its two door brother. The Paceman has that BMW X6 sloping roof line and better looking rear end.

The Countryman has brought the masses and yummy mummies to the brand, however recently I have seen Countryman been taken up by MINIacs who been modding them like crazy. It seems the north hemisphere of the world is where all the Countryman’s live with the US seeing the most tuned ones and finest examples. Another interesting thing was MINI’s own four-wheel drive system called the ALL4 which was another worrying moment for me.  I booked out a JCW Paceman ALL4 for a test drive/review and the drive ability was improved by an early entry full throttle and improved power delivery to the road. There seemed to be no downside to the ALL4 system just the fact this JCW Paceman was £30,000 plus!

Moving on to sport SUV or sport compacts SUV or whatever you want to call them both brands have released their own models. MINI ALL4 drifted in with the Paceman and Porsche gave the world the Macan. However the Paceman hasn’t been popular amongst buyers yet the Macan officially sold out its first year allocation of 50,000 vehicles which gave it a waiting list when it wasn’t even on sale yet!!!

In order to make a more practically or a five door version of their models MINI will introduce the F56 5 door MINI and Porshce gave the world the Panamera.

Another sore subject was the engine changes which were met with pitch forks after the change from supercharged to turbocharged and air-cooled to water-cooled. This change was met with resistance but after the cars were driven by owners and newcomers all worries disappeared on the performance and drive ability side. Yet some will miss theatrics of the engine & exhaust noise and whining of the supercharger.

Another famous heated outrage in both brands was the switch over to electric steering from hydraulic systems where many die-hard owners have said the steering and road feel has been corrupted. The move has been said by both manufactures to be an emissions one as the engine power is being diverted to hydraulic pump for the steering.

Hmmm But what they wont say is the electric ones are cheaper, more reliable and lighter??

However there a lot of other benefits of the electric such as you don’t need Chuck Norris’s arms to turn the wheel and all the electric systems can work in harmony for drive ability with parking being much easier.

I am sure at some point the feel of the hydraulic system will come to the electric system just like how traction control didn’t allow any slip and constantly cut power but now there are adjustable stages of TC.

I have driven the new 911 and compared to the hydraulic steering in the 997 and you will hard pressed to know the difference besides the ease of the turning the wheel. However it is a different ball game with the R50 & R56 where the difference is glaringly obvious to anyone. The gearbox and steering is a workout in the R50 MINI in comparison with the R56 where you change gear and steer with one finger. A worthy upgrade on the R56 would be to upgrade to powerflex bushes installed as the OEM rubber ones are prone to wear if you enjoy the twisties as they give a better steering feel.

Another try by MINI was to introduce the Coupe and Roadster another move Porsche did 1996 which was the Boxster. This move by Porsche saved the company as it allowed new customers to come into the brand via this entry-level model. The Boxster introduced a new way of production efficiency as the car was manufactured using pre-assembled modules including the front and rear suspensions, which were the same components front and rear thus reducing tooling and production costs.

The MINI Coupe & Roadster were both designed on a computer to save time and money in both production and development costs. This method has been key in reducing any delays in production as the coupe and roadster as share the same production line as the hatch. Any change in time of any new MINI leaving the line at every 68 seconds would ruin the just in time production methods and increase production costs significantly.

Like I said at the begin, all these mass market orientated vehicles have allowed both companies to develop and sell limited edition or track focused models for your inner Hoonigan to come out to play. The MINI GP & Porsche 911 GT3 RS are the pinnacle of driver focused vehicles for each brand which both ask for at least 25% percent premium over the normal models. These Halo models have been very effective for the brands to cater to the DRIVERS market whilst bringing people into brand again who can’t afford the upper models. This target group but want a slice of the action so buyers in the lower end models will often opt to buy performance options or accessories.

All the money made from normal variants allows more money for r&d and engineers to be let loose on what they actually secretly want to create as they are not limited by noise levels, fuel efficiency, ride comfort or Miss Evans who cant park so we need it needs a auto park system. You might be wondering why should I pay for the lucky 2,000 to have the ULTIMATE MINI or the Porsche RS models? Because this pursuit of speed is good as this creates a basis of development on the next generation model or facelift models. Motorsport is the proving ground for new technology and the pinnacle of tickle down technology to everyday road cars.

The undertray and aero on your MINIs and Porsches are there because of the motor sport to reduce lift and increase stability at speed. Traction control, Stability control, ABS are all developments from racing to keep the car on road whilst they are fully adjustable on race cars we are all not racing drivers as much as we would love to think. The Top Gear star in a reasonable priced car highlights how much a driver can make a difference in lap time around the same track in the same car.

If you look at the F56 Cooper S spoiler is reminiscent of the GP2 spoiler with the wings sides for aero another lesson learnt from developing the GP2. Also looking at the forthcoming F56 JCW alot of the performance tweaks are again from the GP2 with the diffuser, wider tyres, bigger brakes, aero tweaks on the spoiler and arches.

Both manufacturers are loved the world over which is key to their success in any segment of their respected markets. Alongside this love for the brands is the customisation options translating into tailored cars which bring greater profit margins. Here is a fun fact – Porsche is the most profitable car manufacturer in the world given the options available and level of customisation owners request or spec. Looking at each brands options list which runs into many categories and sub categories ranging from aesthetics to performance options is a modding bible in itself as you are only limited by your bank balance.

The customisation virtually limitless on the Porsche and MINI with the billions of combinations ranging from paint, wheels, interior trim to creature comforts. I spec’d up at 911 Carrera S with a base price of £76,376 to £106,860 that £30,000 worth of options which roughly the price of the GP2 new in the UK.

Yes I went for the optional two grand paint, sport performance pack another 2k, some nice wheels, bucket seats, some carbon trim bits and some other bits but I skipped the PDK which is actually saved me £2,500. You can clearly see how Porsche’s are hugely profitable given the amount of money you can spend on options.

Would Sir like the Porsche logo on your head rest on your seat? £400 please.

MINI has been top trumped on this part given their aren’t any real performance packages for say unless you get the JCW tuning kit but that’s it! However on cool factor and little trim pieces MINI are up there. There are trims options on inside and out with them being easily interchangeable pieces. From what I have seen from the F56 brochure and marketing material the customisation is going to another level on the F56 with the key fob, mats, roof, side vents etc being available to customise to various tastes.

The Recaros and JCW Tuning kit top are the level of expensive options to spec on a MINI compared to carbon ceramic brakes on a Porsche. The MINI brand has many more small items which can be changed unlike the Porsche where you have sell your misses or kidneys to buy but then have to kill someone to get it fitted to keep the Porsche warranty intact.

If the factory doesn’t supply the parts you want then the aftermarket has always been ready to supply and meet our demands. Anything from rims to subtle upgrades are readily available to enhance the noise or performance of your motor.

If you utter the words Singer, RS, GP or John Cooper Works this induces a smirk or a knowing nod from another owner or enthusiast. They know these iterations are pinnacle of what model is and can be. Owning any of these said models opens doors to world of eliteness amongst other owners where we are kings of the hill and admired for it. Yet we wont look down on other owners as our passenger seats are always open for you join in the fun…

Being an owner of either brand we like to talk about them.

When I mean talk I mean we try to steer the conversation towards our car or event we went on the weekend.

Our owners club are the biggest in the world spanning across continents, all boundaries of life, colour or wealth. Our love for our cars has connected us with most unlikely people together. This love and passion will always continue on as it is passed on to the next generation to pick up the torch to carry. They are unwittingly apart of the family from the moment they are born.

As you can see the two brands are very similar in their ethos as both have roots route back to famous race wins.

Racing is in our blood.

MINI has been a giant slayer by winning in British touring racing and the infamous Monte Carlo Rally whilst in the present day it has won the Dakar Rally with all 3 podium spots on consecutive years.

Porsche has virtually one at least one time in every championship it has enter from 24 hours of Le Mans to Dakar Rally.

Porsche did have some success in the rallying with privateers and factory teams with the most famous rallying wins being in 1968 to 1970 where Porsche won the Monte Carlo 3 years in a row with 1 & 2 positions (don’t worry Mini came 3rd in 1968 behind the 911s). The most strange and wonderful 959 supercar won the Paris Dakar rally in 1984 and 1986.

Both brands love to drive their cars and get them DIRTY!!!!

On a marketing stand point of view both brands don’t really tend to flex their muscle with outright BHP figures but instead to focus on the driving pleasure and everyday usability. Our rivals often laugh at our lack of power but they can’t get away from us on the bends to due lack balance and power transfer to the road.

Lets not forget we have a sense of humour when we advertise.

Then were was the infamous battle between the two brands when MINI USA threw down the gauntlet for a race. MINI lost but not by much. I was disappointed to hear they used a Cooper S when they should have gone for the full fat JCW for the WIN!

Continuing the image theme, when was the last time you got cut up by a MINI or Porsche? Never?

No one will ever say anything bad about you if you own either but you will get more respect if you own a classic…

Next Blog Post: Behind the Lens – Modern MINI Magazine Photoshoot

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The post Is MINI the new Porsche? appeared first on JCW Adventures.

Two months later she was born to take me on my MINI adventures far and wide. It has been over 2 years on I still love her like the day I first picked up her. 2013 was year for celebration for MINI & Plant Oxford as it marked 100 years of car making at plant Oxford and the MINI brand celebrating 50 years of the Cooper S and 250,000 Countryman left the factory.

The MINI brands has taken leaps and bounds since his it rebirth in 2001 when BMW release the R50 to the world. That famous badge and brand power drew in old and new consumers to the brand for nostalgia and the infamous go karting handling. Now in 2013 the brand has expanded with the hatchback not being the only variant with the Clubman, Clubvan, Convertible, Coupe, Roadster, Countryman and Paceman.

There is a lot more choice when you buy your MINI with over a million combinations of parts and accessories no real MINI is truly alike which is big difference from 1959 when only 3 colours were only available Clipper Blue, Cherry Red and Old English White for the first 3 years of production.

Lets bring the lime night back on to me I am always been firm believer that you should always give back to the world. I have saying ‘The way you treat people is the way you feel inside’ and I have searched long and hard to find a charity to work to make a real difference to people’s lives.

I came across the Action for children charity as I was applying for graduate roles. I put my name forward to volunteer for an event called Byte Night which is a sponsored sleep out to raise money and to remind yourselves what millions of homeless people feel every night. The big IT companies employees and high-ranking board member were there for the sleep in with over £1 million being raised that day with events across the UK. After learning more about the Action for children from Kim I will be organising a MINI event in Birmingham which will be my own take on the London job which will happen in April.

Details will follow soon…

Modding bug isn’t too far away too far away from me and I finally picked up the carbon fibre boot handle for my JCW to finish the carbon touches to the outside of my JCW. Installation took 5 minutes as it was just a few torx screws. Too match my shiney new carbon fibre goodies I clayed and waxed the JCW ahead its homecoming to the Factory. Time to bring out the SNOWFOAMMMMM It being ENGLAND it rained on the day : / But on the journey there I spotted a camouflaged Land Rover. He tried to get away from me taking piccies but I was having now of that!! POOOOOWWWWAAAAAAAA!!!!! The closer I got to Oxford the more MINIs I began to see on the motorway and normal roads. As soon as I went to turn right into the plant I spotted the Surrey New MINI (SNM) convoy at the lights and so I slowed down for all of us to roll in together

: D

There was an addition to the SNM family as Vickie had trade in her JCW Clubman for another new JCW Clubman to her spec NOM NOM

She went for the Reef Blue paint previously a exclusive paint to the Hampton edition and then specd the Harmon Kardon system, Chilli and Media pack with championship leather with red door and dash trims.

It is a REAL STUNNER with the colour coded arches in the Reef Blue paint and its been given awesome name of ‘Squidward’

I was filled with excitement as it has been a long time coming for me to do the factory tour as I had watched the National Geographic channel Mega factories documentary on the production of the MINI Coupe & Roadster.

I wanted to see in person how machines and people put all the millions of parts and billions combinations of options together day in day out. It was made clear from the outset that MINI was proud of the factory that plant Oxford had been producing cars for 100 years given the number of banners and logo plastered everywhere. I gave my autograph at the desk to sign in and grabbed the MINI black overalls for the factory tour and placed all my belongs into a locker, as no cameras or phones would be allowed into the factory. Do not worry! Where I was allowed to take photos I did. First up was the MINI museum which housed all the R56 onwards concepts and other models produced at the Plant Oxford. It was the breath of models and manufactures that stunned me and how tastes, culture and customer demands have shaped the automotive industry over the years. It funny how what once was an option extra is now standard in alot of cars. This hall of fame of how the MINI brand has evolved over the years is amazing from the marketing, advertising, production and worldwide success has brought millions of consumers in to buy that infamous badge. The factory hasn’t just produced car as during the world war parts for machinery and even planes were made. Me being me I decided to take on the robot for a dance off to see who could the best robot dance moves. Sadly robo arm is retired, Pssshhh Excuses. The SNM crew were all called up and bundled into a van to which would take us into the MINI factory to see how this four-wheel pocket rocket was made.

We were honoured to have Ian Cummings as our factory tour guide for the day. You may not know who is he but he has worked at the plant for sometime so he has seen different cars and models begin and leave the plant under his leadership.

The factory is separated into 3 sections:

Body in white – This is where the panels and exterior shape is formed

Paint – This where every individual car receives it colour

Assembly – This is the final stage where all the components come together

A MINI rolls off the production line every 68 seconds Every MINI life starts out in the body of white where robots apply 4,000 points weld to each body shell including adding the roof.

Once the welds are complete a random check is done by a specialist auditor to ensure the body weld are correct.

If are doesn’t meet this checks it scrapped and recycled to begin the process again but a lucky few are given a chance again as they are turned into track cars for the MINI Challenge series.

The body shell continues it life in the body of white assembly line where the bonnet, boot and doors are added.

Each are car is inspected by human using their hands to find any blemishes and to address them if need be. If each major faults are found this information is relayed back to see what caused it and to stop it from occurring again.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m1vWr2ufSbo

After passing inspection the body is continued on a conveyor belt to the paint section. The MINI body which has a chemical bath and a rinse shower to ensure each MINI is dirt free of anything especially including oil and dust before it receives it colour.

An Human inspection is done again to see if they are as clean as possible before the coat dip (primer). Next up is the sealing process where every hole and joint is made water tight by hand (Fun Fact – Every week 4 tonnes of sealant is used).

The sealing continues with the undercarriage is seal with a plastic coating to protect the body of stone, road grime and salt.

The body is then cooled for one hour then dusted by ostrich feather which is strangely still the best way to attract dirt, dust and oil. Now the paint can be applied which is done by both human and robots to ensure every corner of body shell/panels gets painted.

A final clear coat is applied to protect the paint and to give that gloss finish.

Off to the oven the for the MINI to make sure the paint is dried then inspection begins to find any imperfections. If any problems are found they buffered out and once there aren’t any a final buff and wax is done.

Now beings the final production stage at the assembly plant which has 5 major stations with a workforce which is spilt into 2 crews which fix on around 2,000 parts to each MINI.

Each worker has a specific role to complete in a 68 second deadline and 850 individual MINIs leave the factory every day!

Once the MINI hits the production line its given its VIN number and the doors are removed to allow easy access to the inside of the car.

Now the wiring harness of car is fitted which is 1 and half km long and runs from the boot to the engine bay.

Once the wiring has been fitted the dash-board and interior panels are installed, elsewhere whilst this is going the engine is simultaneously being built every minute. Once the engine is complete the engine is loaded on to pre assembled front suspension frame.

The marriage of the body and engine can now begin where robots and human install the engine together. Now all the other major components such as the seats, rear suspension, exhaust and wheels are added on.

The doors come back to the car to be reinstalled and last few touches are now the final touches and badges are applied give the MINI is identity.

All the fluids are added to drive the newly born MINI off the line to be tested to find any squeak or rattles before its put on to trailer to sent to the customer.

Now that I have gone through the process of how your MINI was made its time to let you guys and girls know how it felt to be there and extra surprise for me to see the F56 in production in both 3 door and 5 door variant.

It was a shock to see them there and were told not to look?? So I leaned against the guard rail to see the interior, the finish and to see what options were fitted on to the models.

They were a few Coopers and Cooper S in that Volcanic Orange and Deep Blue which were probably be press and demonstrator cars leave the factory to go around the globe. I am still not sold on those rear lights and lower bumper intakes on the S as they bigger than my head & ego combined. However everything else is on point with increased plushness in the cabin, more toys and options to be had.

Will I buy a F56? Yes but It’s another few years before I take the plunge again on purchasing another JCW as this powerhouse is coming in 2015 and it will be at least 2017 before I put my hard-earned cash down again for one. I will be requesting a custom paint for mine…

Some might moan about the increased sizes but I welcome the longer wheelbase as that extra few inches in the Clubman makes the car handle better on handling and ride comfort front. I fell in love with the Clubman when I had a fully loaded JCW Clubman from MINI UK when I was having a nightmare with mine.

Anyway back to the factory floor, tucked away in the corner were a few camouflaged MINIs which were the 5 door variant Hatch and what is the forthcoming Clubman. Another thing that caught my eye was the lack of the JCW models being made on the production line as I only saw 2 JCW being made which both were going abroad given the different front plate mount.

The tour was finished by Ian Cummings leading us back into the Van to head back to the Museum to gather our belongs. After this we lined up all our MINIs across the 100 years anniversary banner outside the Museum for piccies : D

But where ever I go the press isn’t far behind with their cameras and tape recorders…

But seriously the local paper had come down to take photos of the SNM clubs but sadly the finish article was the total opposite to what we expect.

But sad news was later heard as the R56 Hatch had officially stopped production marking an end of era and but the beginning of another…

After leaving the factory behind I had this sense of pride that manufacturing still occurs in the UK and MINI brand is very much still deep rooted in every generation in the UK. Its one of the reasons why the Fast Five had British flags attached to their aerials with pride at MINI UNITED. No matter where we have gone the red, white and blue flag is our home and those famous 3 colours were donned on the Minis in the Italian Job, which arguable the greatest car film ever!

The R56 will always be the greatest car ever to me given the personal and emotional connection I have my MINI as its more than a piece of metal but an extra of my personality.It has taken me on a journey of a life of lifetime and introduced me to people who I would have never met whilst put a smile on my face.

Thank you R56

Next Blog Post: Is MINI the new Porsche??

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Every driver gets that itch every now and then. Its the NEED FOR SPEED. Petrol heads look for the empty road where driver and machine come together just like double clutch down to 2nd just to hear that engine rip.

A driver don’t pick the car, the car picks the driver. It’s a mystical bond between man and machine.

This thirst for speed would be settled on the Castle Come circuit.

Castle Combe Circuit opened just 18 months after Silverstone in the summer of 1950, making it one of the longest established circuits in the UK. Until 1999, the circuit followed its original layout, around the perimeter of the old air base. In that first year, a young Stirling Moss won a race and over the next few years, names like Mike Hawthorn, Colin Chapman, Les Leston, Roy Salvadori and John Surtees thrilled huge crowds.

By the 60’s, several planning constraints had seen the circuit become run down and although the old Brands Hatch company, Motor Circuit Developments tried hard to develop meetings in the early 70’s with Formula 5000 and other major events, planning problems prevented long-term development. However in 1976, the circuit lease was obtained by the current owners and the long road to developing the circuit as a modern national racing venue began. Nigel Mansell, Ayrton Senna, and David Coulthard all won races in the 70’s and 80’s, and by the 90’s, the circuit hosted rounds of most of the national championships.

Today, the circuit boasts modern facilities for competitors and spectators, and the resurfaced and now reshaped circuit providing what is generally recognised as providing the closest circuit racing in British motorsport.

For those who watch the DRIVE TV will notice Chris Harris is regularly hooning about here.

John aka Joda who works at Castle Combe track and Mercedes-Benz world needed some help getting some MINIs to the show so I was more than happy to help.

We follow each other on IG and he regularly post some awesome pics at work with all the tasty motors he drives on track and road.

Everyone had seen the pictures I posted up on my blog last year and the fun I had so a lot more members were willing to pedal to the metal this time. This would which add to the excitement on the day.

I helped organise the event but I was last to arrive at the meet point to a plethora of MINIs awaiting for some HOONING.

We all headed out together in convoy to Castle Combe circuit to what is a mainly classic Mini event as its organised by Mini World.

There was a new upgrade to the Fast Five

Phil had decided to leave THE BEST CLUBMAN Ever behind and step up his game

Mr Kitchen was always the odd ball out of the Fast Five but in a good way given his different tastes and preferences. Mid afternoon I received a text off Phil saying he is buying a new MINI!!! I was like WHATTTTTTTTT

It’s a JCW!!!!

Hatch or Roadster??

Coupe : D

Should I get Harmon Kardon?? Hells Yeah

Phil was interested in my stand point of Roadster as he looked for to my 1st car review – MINI Cooper S Roadster

I was glad he got JCW given the problems he had with tuning with Cooper S

I am sorry but the JCW is better than S in its power delivery and performs effortlessly compared to the S. The JCW has the stopping power to match and that Extra 20bhp makes a huge difference in light car.

Like I said Phil likes being that bit different so he went a NOT NORMAL colour choice this time around – Metallic Kite Blue

(Photo credit to Felt Tip Felon aka Lee with a UNIQUE Clubbie – Feature coming soon)

The banter had already begun as we parked up on our stand as everyone was gunning for GP Garry plus Mr King had bone or two to pick with him with their long-standing grudge after MINI UNITED 2012 Go Karting racing antics. No hair nets getting in the way this time LOL

I had promised Jay that he could ride shotgun with me when I went around the track to show him what the JCW was made of and for him to step up his game to get one.

We all headed to sign on for some track time to get our safety briefing and helmets

On the way back I noticed these three familiar Minis from a BIG film which involved a trip to Italy for some gold bullion

Hang on guys I got an Idea…

There was no messing around this time as we all dawned our helmets and I suction mounted the Go Pro to bonnet

My Co Pilot was ready to

GP Garry was already

The Bandit aka Mr King was right behind him

Christina aka Wifey No. 1 was ready

MINI Toque member Overboost was primed and ready

Here is the complete line for the MINI heading on the track

Time for a quick selfie before I headed out #NoFilter

The Sussex road and race crew we were up front leading the pack

I rolled out expecting the 1st lap to be a sightseeing/warm up lap but the pack up front thought otherwise as I sat behind track keeping to track etiquette of not overtaking on the corners and sat back for the back straight to let the JCW loose.

I tucked in behind Overboost on camp corner before the back straight to slipstream him as knocked it down to 3rd and winded out the revs to redline to 4th.

With 4th gear dispatched I roared past him and eyed the familiar rear lights of Christine’s JCW who slowed down to let me pass as she knew I wouldn’t be messing around.

Now I had some time to make up some for lost ground behind traffic and my warm up lap. So it was time to keep it nice and neat and keep to the racing line as it was more a race with the clock and skill to catch up Garry & Mr King.

I headed around with full concentration and only asking Jay if he was alright when it reined in the JCW on the brembo brakes on the back straight to see if he was ok with the speeds I was going at.

All was well as I went around when I spotted an R53 Cooper S in my rearview trying to pass and with this being an open track day there was no passing on a corner. I found this numpty mounting the kerb trying to overtake me on last corner before the back straight.

He went to overtake then found out the JCW is no match on the back straight leaving him behind. I braked after doing 110mph on first corner and following the racing line to find this time this bonehead next to my door mid corner.

What happened to track day etiquette??? It was made crystal clear in the briefing not to overtake on the corners on multiple occasions

So I back of the accelerator and let them him pass because the last thing I wanted was accident on track with a passenger onboard. I slowed down and short shifted to leave a gap before building the speed up again.

It was back to chasing down the lads upfront.I don’t know what happened to this Red Cooper on track as the owner either lost their sense of redirection or get scared of my arrival of the JCW in their rear view as they drove into the run off section of the track.

Was James May driving???

Having passed the Cooper next up was another MINI Mate Dawn in her JCW called ‘Sapphire’ which is gracing the front cover of Modern MINI Magazine now!!!

She is another owner who loves her JCW  to bits and coming from an R53 Cooper S she has been the MINI family and community alot longer than me.

However she was passed on the back straight with me taking the JCW to 120mph before braking for the 1st corner. But sadly time is cruel mistress as after completing this lap and seeing Phil & Garry in my sights the chequered flag was waved signalling an end to the session for a cool down lap.

I had a little natter with Jay on the cool down lap asking if was scared at any point as he held on to the overhead handle most of the time around. Well at least he knows now that I can DRIVE and that he needs to hurry up and buy a JCW!

I noticed I was alot quicker this time around and given I got more speed on the back straight and what I was taught at Goodwood sank in from the instructor. But there is still room for improvement in technique.

Well if any of my readers want to jump in the JCW for a quick spin I am always more than happy to oblige so don’t be shy

Next up was walk around the club stands to see what tastes were about

All of these are photos below are from my very close friend of mine who I love to bits. Sammieeeeeeee has been awesome friend to me and has taken the BEST photos of my JCW to date. She has that MINIac enthusiasm like I do when some utter the word MINI. But for the love me I don’t know how she wears those shorts all year round???

Here is a link to the facebook page and website for her MINI photography called MINI Madness

So please go over send her some MINI Love

MINI Madness – FB Page

MINI Madness – Website

I will be doing a full post on her very soon…

Enough talking here there are MINIs

I had promised earlier in the day Phil my carbon fibre rear diffuser off my JCW for his coupe so I handed it over. He asked if I would install the carbon fibre door handle overlays which I was more than happy to do. To be honest the fit and finish was fantastic on them given he only spent around £60 for the pair which left me thinking at some point I will have to get some on my JCW at some point.

Phil has been loving his JCW Coupe so far as it gets way better fuel with pops and bangs on demand. I asked him how it felt to make the move over from the S to the JCW. He reaffirmed the JCW just has that more effortless power delivery to it and more eager to get up and go.

I unwittingly have his Coupe a name when I called it the ‘Blue Turtle’ because of its roof, so now the JCW Coupe is called Leonardo after the blue mutant ninja turtle.

All of the fast five all have JCWs now so no hanging around even more now ; )

Eagle eyed readers will be wondering about Mrs King aka wifey no.2 R53 Cooper S? Lets say she made the upgrade to an R56 JCW to (more information to follower later with lots of piccies)

All that was left now to do was watch the professional take the classics Minis around and make it look easy as they were full throttle all the way around.

The angles they were coming into cause trail braking was insane as it did result in a few spin offs which is all part of the fun.

This brought the day to a close with a parade laps to finish off this track action filled day and it being the UK it had to rain. But this didn’t dampen our spirits as the classic & modern MINIs all rolled out together : D

After the track day I was left with a dilemma as I wasn’t happy with the JCW suspension and brake feel. So I had a quiet word with my wallet and we came to agreement to give Lohen at visit for enhancements and coilovers.

Next Blog Post: MINI Factory Tour – The Last R56

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The post Castle Combe Circuit: Track Shenanigans appeared first on JCW Adventures.

My website has been a successful because of everyone who reads, comments and follows me.

I have hit another milestone of 15,000 views early this year

But like my JCW I am forever evolving and becoming better, stronger and faster.

But this time I need your HELP!

I want to know you opinions on what you LIKE & HATE about the website

I have set up up an anonymous comment box so you can help with the direction of the website. It will be undergoing a revamp to celebrate the 2 year anniversary and my JCW turning 3 this year.

The JCW will be undergoing some modifications soon…

I mean exactly what I am saying when I ask for your opinions on the website, so be as nice and nasty as you want…

Before that here are my plans for the website this year

1. Reviewing the F56 & All of R56 Model range
2. Charity Run – Its time to give back to the world
3. MIR RUN II – This is my own MINI run I plan over the UK
4. Manufacturing my own line of MINI Car parts
5. Instragram Meetup – 3 Meets in the year
6. Track Days
7. More videos – An insight into me and the JCW
8. Competitions/Giveaways (It will be open to everyone worldwide)
9. MINI Factory Tour
10. Behind the scenes of MINI & tuning specialist

Here is the link to the anonymous comment box to leave your advice and criticisms

Anonymous Comment box

Next Blog Post: Castle Combe Circuit – Track Shenanigans 

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The post MINI Roll Call appeared first on JCW Adventures.

Nigel a good MINI Mate and one of my first supporters of the blog told me about this show called MINIs On The Mind

I was on a MINI run with him at time in the lake district with MINIs Unleashed when he spoke about the show and sent me a link soon after to show to watch.

I love the premise of the show as a group of friends who share the same passion for MINIs just talk.

Brian & Kyle run this weekly live video broadcast where owners and guest presenters talk all things MINI. You as the viewer are encouraged ask questions to chime into the discussion or even set the topic for the whole show.

This is main thing that misses from other shows, as there is always that disconnect from the presenter to the listener. Yes I know there is always a listener question section but it isn’t the same!! This show is made for the listeners instead of you telling them what you want to say

So when I was asked to be on the show I was more than happy to oblige to talk about what started my MINI obsession and my website

Before that we need to talk about the Brain & Kyle

We will start off with the young Top Gun Kyle who I spoke to be on the show

He owns a Cooper S Countryman All 4 aka Kowalski which has been modded for his taste of speed

When I asked for a list of mods he rattled off a long list for some time with custom this, lowered that and tuned for more power

I think he has set the BENCHMARK on how to mod a Countryman

The MINI Nation salutes you

Wondering what it sounds like???

Next up his Brain’s Motor

Another Countryman Cooper S All 4 aka Brooklyn

But this time its Cosmic blue with black out trims with another mod list as long as your arm

I especially love the JCW R134 Matt black wheels NOM NOM NOM

Just like me he doesn’t care what the weather it is a CAR which is meant to be DRIVEN

I don’t think I have seen a finest pair of Countrymans ever given I have been across the UK and MINI UNITED and haven’t spotted a countryman and said

‘DAMN, That’s Modding DONE RIGHT!’

I plan to be a regular on the show and give my viewpoints as I have that European prospective compared the US viewpoint. But hopefully we will meet soon in real life at MINI UNITED maybe…

International MINI meet????

Here is the link to the website and Facebook page

http://www.minisonthemind.com

https://www.facebook.com/MINIsOnTheMind

Here is the episode I was on

The show is every Wednesday at 9:30pm EST or 2:30am GMT

A recording for the show is available the next day on the website and YouTube channel

Next Blog Post: Castle Combe Circuit – Track Shenanigans 

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The post MINIs On The Mind appeared first on JCW Adventures.

So when an owner and MINI Mate says he wants to start his own show we are all like…

Tony Walker has never been shy to the MINI scene as I met him, his finance and father early 2013 at the MINI Dragon Run. Both father and son both owning 1st & 2nd Gen GPs meaning fast MINIs runs in the family.

From what I gather from Tony he wanted to start his own show as he felt more could brought to the table. The aim was to create something new from the norm as there isn’t a true a new MINI show out there in the UK.

This man was on a mission so cue the music, lights and camera

Soon as it was official announced I ordered my ticket and waited the day for the Surrey New MINI to come down to my neck of the woods so I could roll out the red carpet for them. I decided to enter my JCW into the show and shine to see how it would affair against these pernickety cotton button touting warriors.

Prior to all this MINI Madness was a spur of the moment photo shoot with a few friends who were keen photographers.

Mo with Momography and Philip aka Phex Photography taking the photos.

An old school Ford Fiesta XR2 was there to join the lime light

After all the autographs were done we headed out to a trip to London for a day trip.

Having been born in the UK yet I haven’t really explored London fully given its only 100 miles away. I wanted to visit the infamous Piccadilly circus and Leicester square.

Here are some piccies and smiles that ensued

As you should all know I am through and through car nut so super car spotting was in ordered after watching Billionaire boy racers as Knights bridge would be full of them but little did I know that the Salon Prive would be on the UK’s very own Pebble Beach was in full swing.

I will let the motors do the talking

Then was a short trip off Knights bridge for more car porn

Who said Money couldn’t buy you class

Here is the lucky 1% of the world enjoying their opulence

I spotted this debadged and blacked out JCW Clubman sleeper sitting there with its Rotiform Monoblock BLQ rims
We visited a few museums and art galleries to take in some culture and learn a few things or two.

All this walking and taking pictures is hard work so it was back on the London underground for our next stop before the trip back home. I always wanted to see what all the fuss about Lebanese food so there is only place in London to go to…

I released my inner fatty, yes I am foodie and yes that is all my food : D

All filled up we headed back home and enjoyed an empty motorway for once but there isn’t any rest for the wicked as I would be attending a wedding of old school friend the next day.

Time to SUIT UP!!!

Told you lot I do have hair!

It felt like a school reunion as all of my old school mates were there and the old gang was back together again. I hadn’t laughed and smiled for that long in quite sometime hearing one another escapades and stories. We settled down as the bride and groom came in thinking we might be next soon…

I wish Kiran and her partner all the best in her marriage

Back to schedule my tickets arrived at my door

A day before I got my Mr Miyagi for my JCW its first show and shine appearance

Just as I finished I heard the familiar roar of a four pot turbocharged MINI engine driving up my road to see Ashley’s pepper white Cooper S come over to say Hi.

Christine called me saying that the Surrey New MINI crew arrived at the hotel near by house so we headed out to meet up with them.

As I said before I would be rolling out the red carpet as SNM crew were in my neck of the woods so I took them to my favourite restaurant called Oodles & Noodles.

A good catch up was had with SNM as laughs and stories were poured out followed by giggles and smerks.

The smerks disappeared as we all moved to the bowling…

This wise guy Ash from Croydon aka The Professional said he was quite the bowler.

So I decided to get my game face on

I am not sure how to commentate this one given there is no gas pedal or stick shift but it went abit like this. A bunch of guys and girls picked up some medium and heavy balls and threw them at these white milk bottle looking things called a Tenpins.

Good times we were had making it a great night out for all

It all the fun and games done we all bundled into two MINIs then I showed Ashley why the JCW is better than Cooper S and to tell Jay to hurry up to get one.

The night was over but tomorrow would bring the BIG Event, pun intended!!! The rest of the SNM crew would be arriving in the morning so we could roll out as one BIG convoy.

I arrived at the meet point to a long line of MINIs all awaiting my arrival so we could sent off together to the show. There had been some long over due meetings with a few members.

All together we created a long convoy stretching the whole hotel car park.

I led the convoy to the show but got a little to excited on the motorway with a few members which broke up the convoy which was my fault. But everyone came together at the end as I stopped at the entrance of the show.

But as soon as we arrived the heaven decided to open up making all my hard work pointless but nether the less our spirits were still high. I was eager to meet another of my IG followers who was another Simone from Northampton who again likes her ride sitting low.

Her ride is an R53 Cooper S with performance and looks mods to match her obsession madness. Tucked chambered DEEP dished rims with R56 JCW Brembos tucked in to hall back it from the fun she has on the twisties.

I still don’t know how she keeps those rims clean and not bad given its her 1st car

Another great MINI Mate made

My prep for the show shine went a little bit like this. A wipe down and then I walked away from it as it seemed pointless given the rain after passing over the paint work to find it was covered in rain again.

Plus I am people’s person as I would rather go around looking at the motors and talking to their owners. Every car has a story so does every driver.

I went around seeing who had turned up to the show given alot of clubs were coming far and wide for the show. The MINI Torque guys where there respecting low stance nation ranging from the hobo to the OEM plus look.

Platty aka Mark with his ford frozen white MCS which was a real ground up project to which I have enjoyed watching as he posted up his progress on the forums.

My 3rd Family Mersey Side MINI were there as well (God I love these bunch alot but ssshhhh don’t tell them)

The Full On MINIs Crew were literally off the wall this time with a graffiti wall all to themselves to show off their one of a kind MINI Madness – Website

Holly aka little miss lowered ass aka The Show Off was hitting them switches on her air bagged ride

The GP Owners club came in force as well with Sam’s GP standing out by a mile

I have to admire her for going fully looney on the looks of her GP

Not worry SNM I saved you to last as it seemed we have the biggest stand again

This next MINI made me worried how on earth he got here given his ride height and no it doesn’t have air ride suspension its on coilovers

The owner Ben won lowest MINI of the day and now has upgraded to an airbag system so I guess he got stuck in a pothole on the way home.

Knights MINI South Staffordshire were there representing MINI UK

They were very keen of me to buy the GP2 sitting there, till next time guys

Given the show was mainly promoted online and through owners clubs there all the main UK MINI clubs were there.

This stickered bombed clubman was awesome take on this Jap/Euro look

Someone call me a Taxi as this is one sweeet clubman

The rain was on and off during show which put off some people given the journey some had made but it was the people who made the show and the traders.

How to clean your car demonstrations were going on from Autobrite

Orranje were there with parts on offer along with their show car.

Maybe at some point I will do a feature on them given they have raised the bar for MINI modding and they are a group of MINI enthusiasts themselves so what’s not to like?

It was abit of sad occasion as this show marked the inevitable end of the show season and MINI Matt would be moving away from the scene because of life and commitments.

We wish you all the best matt in Volvo land and beyond

There were various raffles for prizes for charities and good causes

As the day came to a close we all gather under the shelter for the winners of various competitions and all important show and shine

SNM member Roger who is retired racing driver walked away with two show and shine awards

I honestly don’t know how he does it? I am still scratching my head how he owns one of the slowest MINIs you can buy and he keeps it immaculate. Doesn’t he feel the need for speed??  I guess we all have slow down at one point of our lives.

Hats off to Tony & Sami for their 1st show as I can imagine it must have been tough to organise and many moments of trying to kill one another when stuff wasn’t going right.

With over 600 people attending, 250 MINIs on displays, 15 traders and £240 raised for cancer research

I think it all boils down to the fact that we actually like Tony that many attended the event as the first time I met him was at the dragon with Mersey side MINI club & MINIs Unleashed it was pleasure talking to him and hearing him talk about the show. He did exactly what he said he would do.

Bring on The BIG MIN SHOW II

Next Blog Post: MINIs On The Mind

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People always ask me why I do talk about my JCW so much??

Its just a CAR get over it?

Why is it called the Misses?

What makes your MINI so special?

Well here is your answer!!!

You are not buying a car for A to B your buying a lifestyle and a community. We don’t care about the colour of your skin, your background, religion or where you from. All we want to know is what mods have you got?

The places you have been with your MINI and the MINI adventures you have been on

What club are you in? Does your MINI have a name? Have you been to MINI UNITED??

We travel hundreds of miles and even across continents to meet!! All just for our love of all things MINI

Each adventure turns into a fond memory that is a story to tell when your old and cant go any faster

Yet that moment will always put a SMILE on face as soon as someone mentions it

We are NOT NORMAL when see another MINI headlight or rear lights as we speed up or slow down to check each other out

When see another we wave, give a thumbs up or give that nod of approval

We are so MINI MINIac that if we see another MINI parked up, we park next to it

You should never bully another MINI as we run in packs

A MINI is more than a means of transportation but a member of the family as some have name yet others are know nick names or number plates

We share our HIGHs and LOWs with our MINIs but when we unlock that door and start it that engine all those woes disappear as we are HOME with a FRIEND

The greatest people I have ever met have owned MINIs and if wasn’t for this automotive master piece I would have never met them…

They were just strangers then friends and now they are FAMILY who have taken me to my greatest heights and supported me all the way through my triumphs and troubles

Even though some MINI MATES are far far away we still hold a connection which is beyond all boundaries and limits as we are connected by our MINI LOVE

Our lives have never been the same since as we are truly MINI

So try to keep up!!!!

Next Blog Post: The BIG MINI Show

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This year’s show would be an interesting, as Surrey New MINI would be coming in force along with my JCW. I had developed a reputation with other MINI owners wanting to meet the dynamic duo. There were a few owners wanting to meet myself I couldn’t wait to line myself up with them and wax lyrically about MINI & modding.

Just before the event I got my oil & filter changed as I had hit the 10,000 miles mark to which I always change my oil. So please if you own a turbocharged or supercharged MINI make sure you check your oil levels and change your oil regularly around or before 10,000 miles or at least yearly if you do low mileage. It’s a simple way of keeping your MINI running smooth and efficiently.

Here is what an oil filter looks like after 10,000 miles

Like I said SNM will be came in force we meant it!!! 35 glorious singing and dancing MINIs with equally looney owners. I think Lohen, 1320 MINI and other MINI specialist had their work cut out the week before the show as everyone was keeping hush hush about their modifications or going completely silent on the boards.

There were a few SNM & MINI Torque members wanting to take me on so friendship might go out the window as pride, manhood and endless bragging right would be on the line.

So line them up so I can knock them down…

Like last year I headed up on the day to the meet point and as usual I was one of the first ones there so I nipped in McDonald for some breakfast nom nom nom.

As the SNM gang were all accounted for we headed out in convoy and ended up hogging up all the roads on the way to Santa pod. A short 15 minute drive we arrived and parked up at our huge club stand with other members putting up the gazebo and SNM Flags.

Once this was done I gave Monie Monies a call to catch up with her and meet up with the Full on MINIs crew for the first time. For a small stand their MINIs do stand out with Andy’s Cooper S aka The BATTLE TANK with his low and wide stanced TopSun body kit which has the artillery to match under that bonnet.

I had read up on this all dancing and bouncing MINI in Modern MINI Magazine as I spotted it at Castle Combe a year ago but never spotted the little purple minion owner. I had a look around this maritime MINI and noticed all the little touches Holly had made from the amusing stickers, wide body kit, sticker bombed trim, air suspension and twin coloured deep dish rims. A unique car needs an equally unique owner…

Monie had brought Mimi with her which had recently been spruced up for the show and it was good catch with the caramel crew. I promised to take monie down the strip and as always I am man of honour so I fired up the JCW for its first run down the strip to put in some practice.

Monie would get her ride along later but new SNM member Carina wanted to see what the fuss was about and learn how to launch off the line. I bumped into a few MINI Torque member most of whom I met at the Midlands meet lining up to race.

I was interested in seeing John’s Hartge R53 Cooper S down the strip as the supercharged MINIs were quicker off the line as I ran against them last year but as soon as the turbocharged hit mid way through 2nd the turbo has created its whirlpool of BOOOSTTTTTTTT and the torque limiter is off allowing the 2nd Gen MINIs to take off.

Supercharger noise is cool but…

Go Pro strapped on the window we rolled down to staging line…

As I watched John hurtle down the strip I eyed the 1/4 mile strip visualising the run from lights flashing down to green to the ultimate pin down of the throttle to eeek out the last few revs to the redline to be crowned a winner or loser.

I pulled into the burn out pad and dumped the clutch with full throttle lighting up the tyres with the onslaught of JCW exhaust howling for the crowd watching me.

The official inched me forward to the line to stage as looked over to Carina and said ‘You ready for this?? Make sure you listen to what I am saying and doing’ She replied ‘Hell yeah’. I got all nervous and the lights seem to take an eternity to change as I heard the muffled sounds of radio chatter as I built the revs up to prepare the launch whilst talking to Carina through all steps of switching off the electronic nannies to holding in the revs.

The lights flicked into actions as the light up and the magically green light appeared I released the JCW’s rampant ponies to what felt like driving on grass then on to tarmac the as Continental sport contacts 5s gripped and hurled us forward with the howl JCW exhaust expelling ozone layer destroying gases into the air. Whilst the crowd watching me were on slaughtered with a satisfying deep burble base line of combustion noises from my engine and exhaust.

I took every shift to the redline which was met with the furiousity of my quick shifting of the carbon and alcantara JCW gear knob as the wave of turbocharged power dispatched the revs with ever climbing speed as we soared past the time Santa Pod time gate. It was all over in a flash with me forgetting Carina was beside me thinking how am I gonna match that.

I backed off the accelerated just as the rear end of the JCW passed through the sign and called upon the 4 pot Brembos to slow us down to ease our way into the exit and cruised to cool down the JCW down for its next run.

I brought the JCW around for another round of 1/4 mile madness and to go through again with Carina exactly how I launched off the line with more details surrounding the process of staging at line. She was worried about breaking her MINI and all said was do you race people at the lights?? ‘Errrhhh yes’ was her reply and I met this with this is the exact same thing but there is no police or speed limit ; )

This time around we had competition in the form of a classic Mini clubman which didn’t looked or sound stock with its low and wide stance. So it was game time to get this JCW off the line as quickly as possible and not to embarrass myself to Carina after teaching how to drag race.

I eyed my competition noticing the slicker tyres and the race suit with helmet he was wearing. OK Mr Racecar lets see what you got???

My Alter ego ‘Rally Ali’ had decided to come out to play with Mr Racecar. So visor down Mr Racecar as you will seeing my rear lights soon…

I didn’t bother with any flamboyance of lighting up my tyres on burn out pad but ushered the JCW to line and focused on the launch as it very much a battle with the clock and Mr Racecar. I glanced over as I staged and slotted the JCW in first whilst building up the revs so I can screech off into the distance.

That green flash of light came and released the clutch with the wrong amount of revs which left the sport contact 5s smoking away grip on the recent surfaced Santa pod strip. I rode through the smoke and low traction as revs rocketed to 6,000rpm and I slammed the gearbox into 2nd with the sound of chirping from the tyres as the boost and torque limiters were lifted from the ECU allowing me to gain the ground I lost against my competition.

As turbo came into play the JCW wasn’t having this classic show it up neither was I as 208 bhp can’t be argued or reason with as the JCW strided forth cutting the air. The JCW splitter sliced the air with the GP2 front under tray sucking the front to the floor and GP2 rear diffuser completing the full flat under tray system creating the ground effect.

Today’s first victim was claimed by the Dark Knight but driver error could have made it a loss.

Like an addict I was back round to drop off Carina at the club stand so she could sign up to drag race down the strip. I gave monie a quick call to ask if she wanted to jump in as I would hit the strip again.

I picked her up near the grand stand and she slide into the JCW bucket recaros but the action was cut short as classic Mini drive shaft snapped and veered into the other lane just missing the MINI on the other side. Gratefully no one was hurt but like any motor sport we were reminded of how danger is always present.

I later read the owner saying ‘I remember going for 3rd gear – I would have been doing around 70mph, the gear stick came too far to the right which means it had lifted over the reverse lockout, in my fumbling effort to find neutral it hit reverse which snapped the left hand drive shaft. The right hand wheel which still had drive because of the LSD locked or turned backwards putting it into the clockwise spin’

We were cleared to head on after a short break but we were down to one lane which left room for practice but I wanted to race the 1st Gen GP. I guess I will have to wait until next year : (

I lined up the JCW for its next run and looked over to Monie who had her phone out to record it all with a grin on her face. As I launched off the line again not feeling the grip on surface but hoping for a good time as my next few race would be ones that count amongst friends.

My young grass hopper wanted to take me on down the strip so said ‘Line them up!!!’ but I did pre warn her that I would beat you. But like any master I had to show my student who was BOSS plus I couldn’t be shown by a GIRL. We headed up to stage for the lights as I glance over to Carina with confidence I slotted the JCW into first.

I held the revs for the launch waiting that sweet green light to signal the JCW to take its next victim of the day. Blink and you would have missed me as I got a perfect launch off the line whilst Carina fumbled her launch with slow reactions and all she could do is watch my tail lights as I hurtled towards the line at break neck speed.

I rolled back to my SNM club stand with my manhood intact awaiting Carina excuses for messing up her launch but my young grasshopper has much to learn but given its was her first time she did me proud later on with her few races.

I powered down the JCW to give her a rest and me to socialise & eat with my club friends.

I went to meet another member of MINI Torque and my IG follower Joseph with his Pepper white Cooper S auto with French blue touches

His Cooper S has been some inspiration for me for future mods on the suspension and induction route.

I caught up with double trouble GP owners GP Garry and Rogue Rob who were at the GP owners stand as Garry was talking about his recent track day at Brands Hatch. I sneakily stole away Liz for our lunch date and spoke about my future plans for the website, work, life and me aiming to be a motoring journalist.

All topped up I walked around with Liz checking out a few of tasty MINIs at the show and shine stand

Cobra seats had brought along their show car

Personally I think this is the best Classic Mini I have ever seen with its rat rod look

I want to shake the person’s hand who had the inspiration to do this. You are a LEGEND!!!

After this MINI Madness I caught up with another lunatic who might be even more of MINIac then me. Yes ino its hard to believe but she does put up a fair fight. I am talking about Holly with her air bagged cooper but I can’t win the front of being the most passionate owner ever given she has the MINI logo tatt’d on her arm

ps for the record Its the only time she will beat me

She showed me how the air bag system work and why she went down this modifying route of low and slow. Like me she wanted to be different from everyone else and set some trends but she did point out it is a Marmite car that people love or hate.

Personally I am a fan of it with custom touches and the funny as stickers that still gets me is the ‘short arse on board’ and ‘I am not SMALL I’m FUN SIZE’. I see Holly can match my wit as well and its finally good to meet a MINI owner who travels as much as I do to events and is the same age as me.

Had to show her the JCW aka The Misses and ran her through the mods and the adventures I had been on but I didn’t have to point out the small mods as she was pointing them out as I unlocked the JCW and opened the door wide open.

Holly went away for a while but we she was up for going down the strip in my JCW.

I was heading down the strip as I saw John with drop top JCW who wanted to run against me down the strip to which I was game to.

It would be an interesting match up as the convertible is slightly heavy yet has the same power. As we were about to head to the starting line Christine waved me down to ask if she could jump and I obviously obliged. Once she was all buckled up we headed to the line…

Me not being a fan of drop tops I didn’t want to be beaten by one whilst everyone looked on from the stands with the phones and cameras. Little did I know a few SNM members and Mersey side MINI owners were looking on and capturing the moment.

I knew I had a fighting chance as my Conti sport contact 5s would give me the better traction off the line if I launch it right.

The little light trickled down to green and with a slight poor reaction I let the JCW off the leash with some wheel spin and hop. I rode through the tortured squealing of the tyres in 1st and when slotted her home for 2nd to what felt like a cut in boost.

My heart sank as the corner of my eye spotted the red JCW which I left at the line caught up to my B pillar nearing on my A pillar. As soon as my head turned to see the JCW my turbo hit its sweet spot of 3,000 RPM and over boosted like jet fighter with afterburners as I slow but firmly started to pull away again. Leaving John’s & his son just looking at me in disarray as we were so evenly match in first 500 metres.

I had the edge as scorched past the speed trap certifying our times for the all the onlookers with no idea what we ran or how close we were. I think that was the closest race I have ever ran but I did feel like I let the JCW down and I was still pondering why it cut boost.

After looking back at the footage it was hell of close race

I let off Christine at the club stand and picked up Holly along the way to strip again for last hurrah for the day as MINI Torque member Sachin wanted to run against me and had been giving me some stick about the wheel gap.

While waiting in the queue a catch up with Holly and learned more about her and her passion for MINI and quickly learned she got into the scene the same time as me and how far she has to travel to any event.

I prepd the Go Pro for the double trouble JCW reading themselves for the battle of the wheel gap and honour for JCW supremacy.

My competition was asking what was under my hood just we went up to line

Just a sports cat and strut brace whilst he was on KW V1 coilovers and running a decat which would give him an edge on the power front and traction front.

I shut the windows so I could zone out and focus on calming my nerves and ran my brain through the process of doing a perfect launch. Holly could see me being all nervous and said you physic yourself up?

I jokily said Tyrese’s line from 2 Fast 2 Furious ‘I got to smoke him’  then I said I will do the drive and stare on you as well…

My nerves built up as I eyed up competition as slotted home 1st and staged the JCW for the battle ahead. I was determined to win for the Mile High Wheel Gap Crew as given I had been given name of wheel gap warrior from Adam aka Evil from MINI Torque.

All I wanted was this victory and no one would take this from me. I built up the revs and waited the lime green light. The lights flashed all the way down to Green and dumped the clutch and wheels chirped on the sticky tarmac scrambling for traction.

My sport contact 5s regained their grip before Toyo proxies on my rival as both shot forth from the line. The sheer volume of noise bellowing from a sport cat and decat 3′ pipes of the JCWs reverberated Santa Pod raceway as we gunned it to the finish line marker.

I grabbed 2nd just before I hit the rev limiter

3rd gear came quickly in concession with me hypnotised to my rev counter to get every last rev before the redline.

Middle way through 3rd Holly said ‘You got him’ as my JCW began to inch past the red top JCW symbolising my inevitable win and crushing defeat as he helplessly watched as my tail lights becoming his runner prize for taking me on.

The win was sealed with satisfying egotistic gear clenching fourth gear as we glided to victory across the Santa Pod sign.

This was the last run of the day and it was a hell of day as I never lost any of my race and put in some good times. My last run of the day was my quickest strangely!!! I guess I work better under pressure.

This show felt alot better than last years given the number of people I knew this time around as well as putting name/MINIs to faces. I will be returning to next years show supporting some more mods….

Given the recent passing of Paul Walker alongside his friend Roger Rodas I feel obliged to talk about it given this post is all about drag racing, 1/4 miles and car culture. When Fast and Furious came out I was only 12 and the UK car modifying scene was small and in its infancy with its ricer/chavastic looks of Civics and Vauxhalls with ridiculous spoilers, bodykits and speakers. It wasn’t really much about doing the interior, handling or performance but all for ‘looks’.

I watched the 1st fast and furious film at my cousin house in London with awe of the neon lighting as this young kid tried to take on Dom to run in his pack. My cousin had a Honda Civic with this god knows what wide bodykit, Huge rear wing, decals, full tints all around, neon lights and alpine sound system. I thought it was amazing at the time as the exhaust was obnoxious loud twin tailpipes which could fit a small child in them. I knew from then when I could learn how to drive I would modify my car with bodykits and neon lights and I dreamt of having my own crew to ride along with. Alot has changed…

But I do have crew now but they are my MINI family who I call the ‘Fast Five’ who I shared the time of my life with. We have got faster as time pasted with everyone owning a JCW within our pack as Phil made the leap to his JCW Coupe, Christine with her JCW, Mr & Mrs King both buying a 1st Gen JCW and 2nd Gen JCW and Garry with his GP2.

Paul Walker and the whole fast and furious scene left a big mark on me and I will truly miss Paul Walker as fan and Idol. It was tragedy to see him go out like this and I woke up to seeing the wrecked Carrera GT on my instagram and I didn’t want to believe that he was gone.

He was a real car guy’s guy as he raced outside of films with various race series and had an awesome car collection including stripped out track focused M3. He was even an honorary guest to Mine’s motor sports in Japan.

My JCW narrowly missed out featuring in Fast & Furious 6 after I put it forward for the film as filming was being done in the UK.

I jokedly said to Joseph at MITP that he was Dom from fast and furious given his build and I would be Paul Walker.

But all I want to say is thank you Paul for making me smile, laugh, cry and dreaming big of owning a GTR.

I hope you didn’t suffer and I hope your family and friends can cope with your passing knowing you tried to make the world a better place with your charity and that millions of people all over the world idolised you and loved you.

Here is a link to his charity – Reach Out Worldwide

I guess heaven needed another angel…

Rest In Peace

Next Blog Post: My MINI Story

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