From somewhere in Taiwan...
How do you say "Ouch!" in Taiwanese?
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
Thursday, April 16, 2009
Monday, April 13, 2009
Blue MINI... [photo]
Here's an unprocessed photo I took the other day just after washing the MINI...
(My neighbors always look at me funny when I wax my car with rain in the forecast. They just don't understand.)
Friday, April 10, 2009
Thursday, April 09, 2009
Tuesday, April 07, 2009
"Crash Tuesday" (New feature!) [photo]
Since stories and images of wrecked minis come up on my MINI Radar on a regular basis, I figured I might as well capitalize on it and start another set of semi-random photo posts. Hence, "Crash Tuesday" (I thought it sounded pretty cool). To start things off, here's a poor little classic mini that apparently crashed into the wall behind it at about 50mph! Ouch!
so ronery...
ouch!
Monday, April 06, 2009
Sunday, April 05, 2009
Color-changing MINI? Question mark?
Showing up on my MINI COOPER Radar this morning, is the "Color-changing MINI"... Only, thus far its all talk no walk. By this I mean, many blogs are regurgitating the same, possiblly April Fools' Day' originating PR copy, yet, I cannot find any real information on the "Chameleon MINI", not to mention any decent photos. To add to the Jetsam (i.e. key "facts" gleaned from several online sources)...
"Called the Mini Chameleon, the car changes its colors according to both temperature and moisture. This MINI designed by BMW will showcase its brainchild in the MINI Habitat showroom in Singapore on June 30th 2009. What is amazing is the fact that colors tend to be changed in seconds...
...Color changing capability proves to be very helpful for Mini’s drivers with its ability to brighten car’s paint on a rainy day, ensuring improved visibility and thus increasing driver’s safety while on a sunny day the car’s paint lightens to reflect heat and chill the car. Color changing capability became available due to a FeintPaint technology developed by Spanish company named Payola Forlids..."
Okay, cool? Yes? But even cooler, would be if one could actually control when/how the color changes take effect! Am I right? Seriously... need... more... details! Anyone?!?!
UPDATE: With a lack of any supporting evidence, I am beginning to to think this story is a fake. I'll stay on top it and keep updating this post with any information found!
Friday, April 03, 2009
(not so) Random MINI Babe [photo]
Well, I tried to avoid it, but the masses insisted that I include Playboy Playmate Sara Jean Underwood as a "Random MINI Babe". After all, she is selling her 2007 MINI Cooper convertible for the price you could get a brand new JCW MINI for. (ah, celebs. what can ya do?!). At the time of publication, this MINI is on eBay for the "Buy it now" price of $35,000. A.K.A."same price as a top of the line MINI!"But, you did to say,"do you know who this belonged too?!"
The original auction link at eBay.com
Wednesday, April 01, 2009
Monday, March 30, 2009
AMVIV 2009 Recap
Another AMVIV is in the can and, as usual, I had a blast! They say the numbers were down- vendors, participants, etc. In my opinion the event was a bit more "intimate" as a result. It will be interesting to get actual figures in the next few days but despite this fact, I thought it went well!
Photos from the iPhone, in no particular order!
Friday, March 27, 2009
Thursday, March 26, 2009
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
AnnaLynne McCord's Wrecked MINI Cooper [Pics]
90210's AnnaLynne McCord smashed her poor MINI into a Range Rover a few weeks ago. This isn't a new story by any means. However, I've finally found photos of the carnage!
From GossipGirls.com:
Showing off her exemplary driving skills, AnnaLynne McCord got into a smash-up on La Cienega in West Los Angeles on Tuesday afternoon (March 10). The “90210” starlet totaled her new Mini Cooper after rear-ending a fellow driver’s sporty (and expensive) Range Rover, with police quickly responding to the scene...
(obligatory sexy legs pic)
For what it's worth, I don't watch TV (and even if I did, wouldn't watch 90210) so I didn't even know who AnnaLynne McCord was until she showed up on my MINI radar. As they say, "no such thing as bad press", right?
Read the full article and see more sexy legs at GossipGirls.com.
Monday, March 23, 2009
Saturday, March 21, 2009
Rooftop MINI [video]
Bored on Saturday? Warming up for AMVIV? Both? Here's a short video of me goofing off with my MINI Cooper and HD video camera. Enjoy!
If you enjoyed this video, you'll enjoy my real, non goofing off video show about car culture at www.BehindTheVroom.com
:)
Thursday, March 19, 2009
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
Rockin' the Pilo's!
My buddy over at MotoringUnderground.com alerted me to a sweet deal on these Piloti Driving Shoes! They arrived via Brown® only moments ago! (more after the jump)To share the wealth a little, (don't tell anyone I told you!) you can get these Piloti Driving Shoes (MSRP $85) for only.... wait for it.... $29.95 + shipping Where? Here! If you add this coupon code BF1044 it drops the price to 24.97 + shipping!
Doh! no sooner did I go to check availability the site now says "Sorry, item sold out". Well, duh!
Now, to try them on! *grin*
Sunday, March 15, 2009
Saturday, March 14, 2009
The Weirdest Thing: Truck Hits Street Light, and Then?...
This morning I was coming home from the tire shop and made a wrong turn getting to the freeway, which placed me in the part-of-town-you-dont-want-to-be-in part of town. Driving through a residential neighborhood, I witnessed a Tacoma make a way too fast right turn and *BAM!* Slams straight into the lightpole!
It freaked me about a bit- I've seen photos and movie scenes, but have never seen a head on collision into a lightpole happen in real life/real time. Radiator pops, steam comes out, oil drips, you know- just like in the movies. The passenger gets out holding his head and cursing in spanish. The driver gets out and he's yelling too- they both start yelling at each other, walking in front of and pointing to the front of the truck. The passenger calls the driver an "effing idiot" and says something about needing to learn how to drive (in spanish). The driver says "f**k you mother f**cker" in spanish and then get this- throws his open bottle of beer at the passenger! Did I mention its about 10:15 am?! :eek:
The two are yelling at each other in the middle of the street, meanwhile the truck continues to spew steam and oil. In the split second I turned away to look at the truck, the two dudes get in a brawl in the middle of the street! I'm sooo wishing I had my video camera, but am now parked in the middle of the street, keeping a safe distance away. But here's the weirdest part of all: Since this is that side of town, of course the obligatory 4-5 punks-hanging-out-on-the-corner were hanging out on the corner. The lightpole was about 6-8 feet from where they stood, and during the entire ordeal from the crash to the yelling, to the fighting, they didn't flinch a bit! They also didn't call 911, try to see if anyone was okay, or try to break up the fight. They didn't even laugh. They just stood there. And that freaked me out!
I was going to snap some pics with my iPhone, but the truth is, I really didn't want to be on that street any longer than I had to! (Some photo-journalist I'd make, eh?)
(not a photo of the actual incident)Wednesday, March 11, 2009
Jay Leno Reviews the MINI-E
It is quite refreshing to hear an honest, spin-free review of BMW's foray into the all electric
car market with the MINI-E. And while I never liked him on the Tonight Show, I certainly respect Jay's opinion when it comes to cars.
http://www.jaylenosgarage.com/video/video_player.shtml?vid=1052621
Related Links:
Friday, March 06, 2009
Random MINI Babe [photo]
Here's a random photo I found online today.* It portrays two of my favorites things!
*(If this is your photo, let me know so I can give you proper credit!)
Friday, February 20, 2009
Tailpipe snippage, legos and free MINIs!
Again, it's kinda hard to discuss the wonderful world of MINI without rehashing the big stories that are covered in 20 different places, however, the news this week that MINI is now doing a "mandatory recall" of all R56 (aka 2007+) Cooper Ss... and for what? To have their tailpipes moved in 1/2 an inch so people won't burn themselves? Please add me to the "gimme an effin break!" list.
But on a lighter note...
Lego MINI!
See more Lego MINI coolness on the "Brickblog"
Buy Condo, get free* MINI!
While in the last six month we hear more and more accounts of MINIs being thrown in as buyer incentives during this horrific US housing market, one Atlanta (Georgia) development makes no gaurantees when it says "for what you are paying in rent, you could win a BMW Mini Cooper." What no freebies?
Related Links:
Saturday, January 31, 2009
Hello World, Again.
And we're back...
Okay all kidding aside, "Bushfinger MINI" went dark for awhile there, but not for a lack of content. In fact, there are much rumblings in the MINI world- enough to garner the attention of a couple thousand blogs and text-based media sites. For awhile there I tried to bring you the latest news and information about our beloved MINI brand, which basically made me one of the other thousands of sites re-purposing Press Releases over and over (ex: I read a review of the 2009 Clubman today- that's been out for how long?)
In its original state, "Bushfinger MINI" was simply intended to chronicle the antics and musings of a MINI Cooper owner (yes, yours truly). Over time I found I had a fascination with MINI Cooper casualties and began archiving stories of stolen and wrecked MINIs and the photos that go along with them. After awhile this got a bit too morbid, especially on the rare occasion someone dies in one of these incidents.
I moved toward media legitimacy by covering the hard stories that made the press. Then the price of fuel in the U.S. skyrocketed. Good gas mileage and "small cars" became hip; The MINI brand was making huge changes in their mantra and model line up. Put the two together and soon the MINI brand became a darling of the media. I began to notice that for every story that was about, for, or alluded to the MINI brand, it was covered by 2000 websites for weeks at a time (this might be the same for other brands/industries, but I don't don't know because I don't care). I made a conscious decision to not recover/repost that which is out there in droves, and/or covered by sites and writers much better and more prolific than I (cough*motoringfile*cough). Hence the darkness.
But, it's a new year and with that comes new goals and one of mine is to keep up the posts on Bushfinger MINI. That's right. You thought you got rid of me, didn't you? I'm going back to my roots and returning to the concept of writing about what I know- Me, my MINI, and related events. And the occasional news story I find particularly interesting.
Here's a recent photo of the MINI right after a 7-hour detailing session (which would have made a great blog entry had I thought of it at the time!)
Friday, January 30, 2009
MINI Cooper Challenge featured in XBOX 360 game
I'm not much of a gamer, and ironically, I suck at most racing games. Of course, anything that includes the MINI in its line up gets my attention. So when the preview/trailer or Atari's "RacePro" showed up on my radar with a screen shot of the R56 MINI, I was quite interested. The fact that the game appears to not only feature the MINI Challenge Car, but the MINI Challenge Series itself as a significant component of the game? Well, that just makes me giddy as a schoolgirl!
"Race Pro offers a wealth of cars ranging from 200 to over 1000 horse power, as well as a host of championships including WTCC (World Touring Car Championship), Formula 3000 and Formula BMW. GT cars from manufacturers including Aston Martin and Saleen take their place on the grid as well as production cars such as the Audi R8 and Dodge Viper SRT10. In addition, Race Pro is exclusively bringing all the WTCC cars from manufacturers Alfa Romeo, BMW, Chevrolet and Seat to Xbox 360 for the very first time. For a blast of accessible fun, the Mini Cooper Challenge invites players of all abilities to take the wheel." [Atari.com]
I can't wait to talk my friend into picking it up so I can play a few rounds!
Related Links:
Thursday, January 15, 2009
WORLD PREMIERE OF THE NEW MINI CABRIO AND THE MINI E.
Allow me to be the 6254th website and blog to discuss the "World Premiere" of the MINI Cabrio, and the MINI E At the North American International Auto Show in Detroit this past week. I put "World Premiere" in quotes because, well, if you're reading this, then you are probably a big fan of the MINI, and if you're a big fan of the MINI, you've seen the photos and videos circulating the Internet as early as 6 months ago.
But alas, how could I not write post about it. But even better than that, how about some video! :)
Now, the Cabrio showed up on the MINIUSA.com configurator a few weeks ago, but I didn't take notice because I've been drooling over the JCWs for the last six months. (More on this later). Alas, now I must decide if my next MINI is a Cabrio or JCW... :)
:bmp:
Related links:
Monday, October 13, 2008
Chauffer-driven Clubmans Launch in Dubai
[Ed. note: I've been suggesting this for months!]
From: www.ameinfo.com:
"Jumeirah Emirates Towers recognises that 'time' is the new luxury for the business traveller and the MINIs are an ideal, flexible and compact solution for this premium service, avoiding precious time wasted on finding taxis or parking spaces...
As a hotel guest of Jumeirah Emirates Towers, take pleasure in a complimentary chauffeur driven transfer service in dynamic silver coloured MINI Cooper S Clubmans. The hotel offers this service 24 hours daily and includes DIFC drop offs and pick-ups on request. So sit back and relax while we take you places..."
Read the full story at: www.ameinfo.com
Related Links:
Saturday, October 11, 2008
MINI CLAIMS TOP SPOT AT SCCA SOLO NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP
(From germancarscene.com):
A 2007 MINI Cooper S, piloted by Craig Wilcox of Blue Springs, Missouri, claimed first place in G Stock at the 36th Tire Rack(R) SCCA Solo National Championship at Heartland Park in Topeka, Kansas. The four-day contest of precision driving — an exhilarating face-off that pushes the driver’s ability and the car’s handling characteristics to their limits on an autocross course — attracted more than 1,000 entrants competing in 32 classes.
...“I have received so much support form MINI USA, without it, competing around the country would not have been possible for me,” said Wilcox. “I am now on my 5th MINI Cooper S in as many years, and am definitely appreciative of all the support that MINI USA has given me through the MINI Motorsport Awards Program.”..."
Read the full story at germancarscene.comRelated Links:
Monday, September 08, 2008
How Many People Can Fit Into A MINI COOPER?
I'm pretty confident this Guiness World Records attempt is legit. (Captured from a spanish-language* TV show)...
*(Someone help me out with that, wouldja?)
Tuesday, September 02, 2008
MINI vs Killer Shopping Carts
Ah, the latest MINI promo from BSSP...
**UPDATE** The following embed is from www.kossan.se. But I still give credit to brentter.com for being one of the first sites to post it w/o requiring a login.
Kossan.se
Related Links:
Monday, August 18, 2008
Jason Calacanis Drives a MINI
When most speak of dot-com millionaire Jason Calacanis, they speak of his well-earned arrogance, astute business sense, and entrepreneurial vigor. When the auto enthusiast speaks of Calacanis, its because he's on the short list for a Telsa Roadster.
Jason Calacanis on the MINI Cooper: "it makes a good dog-car"So imagine my surprise when in the midst of the witty banter during Leo LaPorte's "This Week in Tech" (Episode #155), pressed about his current personal fleet, Jason Calacanis proudly mentions his Telsa Roadster (of which he anxiously awaits delivery), a Corvette C6, a Mercedes GL550... and then he says, "oh- and I got a MINI Cooper".
[insert record scratch]
Personally, I think its way cooler that the Big JC sports the MINI on occasion, than that one guy from American Idol.
Related Links:
Saturday, August 09, 2008
Hamann Release MINI Cooper Performance Upgrades
Hamann known for taking high-end cars (mostly BMWs and Porches) and making them even more high end with performance and visual enhancements has been giving the "new" MINI the Hamann treatment since their re-introduction in 2007.
As seen on Germancarzone.com
In early 2007, Hamann,was quick to produce an aerodynamics styling kit for the new second generation R56 Mini, but took over a year and a half to complete the program with engine performance upgrades mainly consisting of reprogrammed ECUs.
Nonetheless, the Bosch Motrotnic ignition control unit has be remapped, and the 1.6-liter turbo engine in the Cooper S, which normally produces 175 hp / 128 kW, has been increased to 204 hp/ 150 kW at 5,500 r.p.m. and torque of 300 Nm at 1,600 – 5,000 rpm.
However, Hamann offers an even more powerful kit for the Cooper S. Called SPORTKIT CS 230, it adds on top of the ECU upgrade with an improved intercooler and sport muffler making 230hp / 169 kW at 6,050 r.p.m. and 330 Nm torque at 3,860 r.p.m. As a result, top speed increases to 238 km/h and 0-100 km/h increase by at least 0.5 seconds.
For the Cooper D which normally has 110 hp, it now makes 26hp / 20 kW more for a total of 136 hp / 100 kW at 4,000 r.p.m. and a maximum torque of a huge 300 Nm at 1,750 – 2,000 r.p.m.
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