In my previous post I described why we’d chosen the classic mini in the first place. The three key areas were simplicity, cost, but mostly fun.
So we’ve determined that it’s a mini, but which one?
K.I.S.S. (Keep it simple, stupid)
The first area of simplicity is fairly obvious but there’s a massive difference in specification allowed by the various racing series out there. I’ve discounted rallying as it’s a completely different style of driving, often on gravel. Combined with the fact that public roads are often used the margin for error is drastically reduced. Give me a nice run off area any day. A track car it is then. Now for a process of elimination.
I’m looking to keep the modifications necessary to meet the individual race series regulations to a minimum. Modification and cost go hand in hand. Cost is the second priority.
Cost
I’d love to build an Appendix K Historic Racer and battle it out at Goodwood against the bigger boys and girls in the St Mary’s Trophy, but as a first venture I’m just not willing to part with the best part of £35k to build a pre ‘66 Cooper. £20k of that by the way is just a competitive engine! Ouch!
With that ruled out we now have everything else left over. There are so many championships to choose from including with Miglia, Se7ens, Mighty and Super Mighty to name a few.
In simplest terms the Mighty Mini series keeps the cars as close to original specification in terms of body, suspension, and engine. Super Mighty, amongst other things, permits a capacity increase and other mods in the gearbox. Miglia takes everything to the extreme in every respect!
Fun
It would be difficult not to have fun in any mini equipped for the track but the thought of having to prepare a highly modified car and then race it might dip into the fun factor somewhat. It’s not ultimate horsepower that matters but the closeness of the racing that results. A restricted series where minimum modifications are permitted would be best for a novice like me. In time, and if the desire (and funds) are there then I can always look into another championship.
A final decision
With that in mind the championship that makes the most sense in the Mighty Mini Series. This maintains the all metal body, original unmodified engine and limited mods to the gearbox and differential. Basically strip a mid 90s SPi Cooper, bolt in a cage, add an extinguisher system and racing seat and you’re off. Sounds simple doesn’t it? I’m sure that it isn’t.