Mini – More Like Maxi
Don’t let the size of the Mini JCW Countryman mislead you, this small car, so to speak, is big in so many ways. I had the joy of test-driving the ALL4 MINI John Cooper Works Countryman and even though Mini is no stranger to me, I was remarkably impressed. The key to this pocket rocket spun through the air and landed on the desk as the Sales Manager said Here, go blow your hair back, which is exactly what I proceeded to do. You see the ALL4, John Cooper Works, Countryman Mini, is an all wheel drive with a very low center of gravity. Add to the make up some perfect weight distribution and this JCW Mini is, in one word, astounding. In a spurt I was up the hill and scooting past Gateway. Thrilled with the nippy precision of the Mini’s steering and the awe inspired looks I was getting from fellow motorists, I turned off the quality sound system to listen to the spine tingling sound of the twin-pipe sports exhausts. Sunshilled filled the interior.
The power produced by the TwinScroll turbocharged, direct fuel injected engine, complete with variable valve timing, had me flying down the N2 at an unmentionable speed. This little car is apparently capable of up to 300 newton-meters of torque, that’s enough to tow a big boat. I was reluctant to return this thrilling ride to said Sales Manager, however I can really recommend that you take one for a test drive yourself, and you too can become a Maniac.