6 replies to this topic

[Phil64jones]

Hi, I am quite new to this site and am looking to buy a Mini saloon for ~£2000-£3000 - one that looks & sounds 'pokey' for some fun.

 

I was initially thinking of a 1275-1400cc, but am wondering what bhp I can expect from this versus a 'tuned' smaller 998 type engine (be it Stage 1,2 or 3...)?

 

Not sure what the standard outputs are for each engine size and whether I 'd be as well going for a tuned 998 rather than holding out for a 1275+.

 

I'm 50 so insurance shouldn't be an issue.

 

Any pointers greatly appreciated...

 

Cheers!

[Guess-Works.com]

I mildly tuned 1275 ( or bigger ) will have more grunt than a relatively highly tuned 998, and will prove more reliable....

 

You should get something reasonable for your budget, but always buy based on the condition of the body and not the mechanicals...

[Moggyton]

To make a 998 as powerful as a 1275 will most likely cost more than buying a bog standard 1275 (i think). Its probably best to go for a 1275 as you will only want to go faster once you've maxed out a 998. 

[KernowCooper]

A good 998cc with all the right bits without spending a fortune 60+bhp, or a screamer which is near racer spec will be short lived and need frequent rebuilds. 1275s 90hhp is obtainable and still have a motor which is usable every day and wont need pulling apart every 4th week. No real benefit to over bore as the power difference is marginal between 1275, 1293, 1310  and 1330cc

[CityEPete]

I am having as much fun as ever with a mini these days due to the standard spec, skinny tyres and revvy 998 set up well, a poorly bodged and badly tuned 1275 on wheels too wide for the tired rubber suspension components wont be as much fun as my standard car I dont know how people drive cars with wires all hanging down and things falling off, maybe I am getting old but I did see in the thread about tyres that someone drove a standard car and had forgot how much fun it was on 145s, nippy and directional rather than tracking and bumpy for me everytime! If I want to go faster and grippier I will take the Bini.

Edited by CityEPete, 05 June 2014 - 05:40 PM.

[crazirob]

I went the small bore option, spend a lot of money again comes to the power of 3 if you pick 2 the 3rd will be sacrificed,

 

Power,

Reliability,

Cost,

 

 

currently I have 69 hp and 65ft Ib at 6818 revs and I will be getting more, however you spend the money and don't drive like a idiot all the time, and it will last. upgrades due with twin H4's so shuld be seeing nearer 75 hp

[Phil64jones]

Great responses - thanks very much!