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!)
Saturday, January 31, 2009
Hello World, Again.
Friday, January 30, 2009
MINI Cooper Challenge featured in XBOX 360 game
"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.
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
"Keys and Car Stolen as Mum and I Slept"
[Ed. note: I read stories like this one every day... For some reason I am compelled to post this one.]
"A YOUNG woman has been left devastated after burglars stole her car after breaking into her home.
Sherri Saunders, 20, saved up for three years for the 2002 Mini Cooper S which she only enjoyed for three weeks before it was taken.
The shop assistant and model had been saving since passing her driving test. Her dad, Paul, discovered the car was missing from their driveway when he returned from work.
Sherri, 20, of Pound Lane, Bowers Gifford, said: “I was in shock at first and then what happened started to kick in a couple of days later.”
Her dad Paul, 48, added: “I just feel destroyed for her. She’s been crying every day. It’s so unfair.”
Paul is offering £1,000 for information given to police which leads to the return of the car..."
[the part that makes me laugh, sort of]
"...Detectives are still looking for the Mini, which was grey with a black roof and black stripes on the bonnet which continue on to the bumper."Gee- that narrows it down!
Read the complete article at echo-news.co.uk
Sunday, July 13, 2008
MTTS-LA: Totally Unofficial Hotel Recommendations
[Updated, Monday, July 14, 2008, 01:59 PM]
Since a big group of friends from out of town are coming up for MINI TAKES THE STATES-LOS ANGELES, I tried to get some reliable information about hotel accomodations in the Pasadena area. And, since I'm writing it down, I figure I may as well post it for others who may be in a similar situation of not having a clue where to stay aside from the Hilton.
I will update this post as more information becomes available. Feel free to use the comment feature to add your own recommendations or "warnings"!
"The List"-- along with comments from people I trust to give me decent info (in no particular order):
Holiday Inn Express
full breakfasts, nice amenties. good rates
The Hilton - 168 S. Los Robles Avenue
The Westin - 191 N. Los Robles Avenue
(closest hotel to Rose Bowl) (California Pizza Kitchen and McCormick and Schmicks on the Property)
Courtyard by Marriott - 180 N. Fair Oaks Ave.*
(close to Rose Bowl) (near old town Pasadena, lots of shopping, restaurants nearby, very freeway close - can hop right on the 210)
The Sheraton - 303 East Cordova
near Paseo Colorado (large shopping complex)
The Langham - 1401 South Oak Knoll Avenue
(formerly The Ritz Carlton) very expensive!!
Saga Motor Hotel - 1633 E Colorado Blvd
a good value.
*While I've attempted to keep my own opinion out of this post, I will mention that this particular location was recommended by three different sources.
Thursday, July 10, 2008
MINImus Omnibus: News at a Glance
It's been kinda dead the last few days on Bushfinger MINI- certainly not due to a lack of MINI related news, but moreso a combination of 1) yours truly relocating to new abode (i forgot how much moving sucks), 2) a deluge of over-recycled news (mostly old news to MINIacs), and 3) quite frankly, all the other "big" MINI news, seems to be a tad bit over-covered lately.
photo found on motoringunderground.comHere are a few recent bits I find somewhat interesting that may or may not already be posted on 100 other blogs:
LA Times writes: "American drivers should consider themselves lucky -- try $9.85 a gallon in Oslo."
[at latimes.com]
MINI among Mercedes-Benz E320 and Tesla Roadster in "Fuel-Efficient Cars You Actually Want to Drive"
"With the current economic downturn, increasingly high fuel prices and a growing concern for the environment, many of today's drivers are embracing fuel efficient or 'green vehicles. We want to educate consumers on the few vehicles that are not only Earth-friendly, but also stylish and exhilarating to drive."..."
[at emercedesbenz.com]
More Clubman Reviews?? nah- I'll skip it.
[If you must, here are about 1,150,000 at Google.com]
Truck overturns, Mini-Cooper stays on its wheels after collision
Santa Paula Police are investigating a two-vehicle collision that left a truck overturned - but a Mini-Cooper on its wheels - Friday evening, blocking a busy intersection..."
[at santapaulatimes.com]
Clubmans Make Moms Hot
"The mom-reviewers here at MotherProof.com have recommendations for (mostly) functional family cars that can make you look and feel as hot as the summer sun..."
[at motherproof.com]
"Clubmans Post Up!"
MotoringUnderground.com unwittingly collects the coolest Clubman photos on the web...
[at motoringunderground.com]
Gas prices in world cities (LA TIMES)
I don't often read, and even more rarely quote the L.A. Times. However in an article I read today, staff writer Marla Dickerson writes: "American drivers should consider themselves lucky -- try $9.85 a gallon in Oslo."
To which I say, I've been saying this all along! The totally intriguing list is shown below. The full story is available on LA TIMES.com at the link below:
http://www.latimes.com/business/la-fi-worldgas10-2008jul10,1,1883309.story
Gas prices in world cities
City Reg. price in USD/gal.
Oslo 9.85
Paris 9.43
Copenhagen 9.24
Rome 9.03
London 8.96
Berlin 8.68
Hong Kong 8.05
Seoul 7.33
Sao Paulo 6.38
Tokyo 6.30
Singapore 6.13
Nairobi 5.94
Sydney 5.57
Montreal 5.57
Vancouver 5.50
Santiago 5.18
Toronto 4.98
Mumbai 4.94
Bangkok 4.78
Los Angeles 4.57
Johannesburg 4.41
Moscow 3.90
Havana 3.75
Buenos Aires 3.56
Beijing 3.40
Mexico City 2.62
Dubai City 1.70
Cairo 1.24
Kuwait City 0.92
Riyadh 0.47
Tehran 0.41
Caracas 0.12
Sources: AIRINC, Energy Information Administration
Wednesday, June 25, 2008
Used Cars Make A Comeback, MINI Dominates
Today Forbes.com discusses the increase in used car values for older, fuel-efficient vehicles. I about lost it when I read:
"...This year's Mini Cooper buyers expecting to find a lower-priced used 2007 Mini were in for a big surprise. They paid, on average, $2300 more for a used Mini in mid-June, a 12% increase over the average transaction price on Jan. 1 of this year..."Twelve percent? Twelve percent?! Since January?! Well, you know how I am-- I immediately got distracted from the article and had to get an update on the ol' "Kelly Blue Book vs. Payoff" challenge for my own MINI. The results? Wait for it...
Kelly Blue Book, Private Party, Excellent Condition: $21,945*
Current payoff (after 3 years of payments): $15,662.73*
That's right folks by these numbers, not only have I only lost about $6,000 in value after three years of ownership- if I sold it today, I'd make it all back! Yeah, I know I probably missed something in the math there somewhere. Feel free to correct me. Meanwhile, excuse me while I laugh my a** off for a second and do a little dance...
Forbes continues:
"Dominating the list of 15 fuel-efficient used cars making a comeback is the Mini Cooper with four model years, including 2005 ($1,900 average transaction price increase, or 11%); 2006 ($1,600 average transaction price increase, or 10%); and 2004 ($1,050 average transaction price increase, or 7.4%)..."
Yeah, I had to include that part in there too. But in all fairness, its not all about the MINI. Check out the entire article for some jaw-dropping, cork-popping numbers! Well, I guess that depends on what you drive.
*(Figures are for comparison and commentary purposes only.)
Related Links:
Tuesday, June 17, 2008
Can a Hornet sting the MINI?
A few articles I ran across today question if the Dodge Hornet (concept) is specifically aimed at taking a piece of the MINI Cooper market.
"We wanted the Hornet to be dynamic, nimble, fun to drive, and have an adaptable space-efficient interior," said Mark Moushegian, Principal Exterior Designer. "At the same time we set out to create a vehicle with a uniquely American character to expand the image and presence of the Dodge brand in Europe and international markets, especially in the entry-level market."
Underhood is a 1.6L 16-valve OHC supercharged I/C four-cylinder engine putting out 127 kW (170 hp)/224 N•m (165 lb.-ft.) of torque @ 4000 rpm.
"Like the exterior, the interior is geared around young rally enthusiasts," said John Sodano, Principal Interior Designer. "Our intention was to maximize the interior volume by pushing all interior surfaces to the perimeter of the vehicle as much as possible. I studied images of space capsule interiors, since they are designed for high efficiency in a limited space. I wanted the Hornet inside to have a functional, 'engineered' look, but with pleasing surfaces and materials."
My two cents? Um, just look at that front end. And the back end. And the interior.
Form your own opinion by reading the articles in full at the links below!Related Links:
Monday, June 16, 2008
LifeBall MINI Auction Closes at 45,000 EUR
When the eBay auction closed on June 15th, some lucky Austrian fella (or fraulein) became the proud owner of the one-of-a-kind Life Ball MINI 2008 by Agent Provocateur.
Closing at 45,000 Euros (equiv. $69,700 USD), that's a pretty good deal for a custom MINI Cooper Clubman! In addition to the hand-stitched leather interior, custom graphics and paint and of course, bragging rights- proceeds from this auction go toward international AIDS charities, which is a pretty cool statement right there!
The winning bidder will also receive two VIP tickets, including overnight accommodation, for the MINI Challenge Finale on 27 September 2008 at the Salzburgring race track.
Not a bad deal for 70 grand! I would certainly take it over a 7-Series any day!
Related Links:
Friday, June 13, 2008
Video Friday: R56 Autocross...
Found on NorthAmericanMotoring.com...
"I get good comments like 'that can't be stock!' 'what do you have in that thing?' I'm pretty sure most of those guys think I'm a liar. My answer always is 'look at the ride height, if It wasn't stock would I have it riding so high' ..."
Thursday, June 12, 2008
MINIUSA.COM Visitor Traffic up 90%. Attributes Rising Fuel Prices
filed under "you could see it coming a mile away"...
Auto-blog site, Cars.com reports that 900,000 people went to miniusa.com in May 2008?!
"Maybe it was the recent introduction of the Clubman, but MINI is saying, nope, it’s high fuel prices that have driven traffic to its website to increase nearly 90%. Last month, more than 900,000 people went to miniusa.com to check out the Cooper lineup. Searches for new Mini Coopers were also up on Cars.com, nearly 40% in May compared to April 2008."
The article continues on to cite mileage estimates in comparison to other cars in the same class. Friends of "Bushfinger MINI" will recall more realistic, real-world mileage statistics conducted by yours truly!
Read the full article at cars.com
Friday, June 06, 2008
Video Friday: Thumb-sized R/C MINI Cooper
Thinkgeek.com is one of my favorite sites to look at stuff I'll never buy. I might actually buy this thumb-sized R/C MINI Cooper though!
Related Links:
