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MINI Challenge, Clubman and a Figaro?

January 13, 2008 on 8:30 pm | In Recent Posts |

Was back in London for another quickie which gave me an opportunity to see the Clubman and the MINI Challenge car up close and personal at MINI Park Lane. 

No questioning its striking appeal and I bet would look rather cool having a bunch of these going around a track.

 

Getting up close and personal, fitted with Borbet slicks and the inside is stripped to the barebones.   Though for me to fit into this Recaro seat I would need to go on the ‘30-day Turkish Prison’ diet.   Guess if you don’t fit into the seat you’re too big and heavy to drive the car?

 

 

Adjustable wing and the hydraulic lift system? and exterior emergency shut off switches.

 

One thing I found rather interesting is that most car mfg race car series cars always cost quite a bit more then the standard models which if you’re removing all these parts why is it so much more expensive?  

Now for the Clubman, I rather like the two-tone paint scheme and new aero top.

there is no question that the extra door makes it a breeze to get in and out of the back seat and all the complaints about the lack of rear view? Yeap, you can’t see much but there is enough to see the fuzz tailing you and besides it comes equipped with the backup sensors.  honestly don’t think its any better or worse the the convertible.   Will I get one?  doubtful as I don’t need the extra passenger room.  Rather like my two-seater GP.  Sorry I can’t be the designated drive for lunch only have two seats

One thing I like about staying near Park Lane is all the cool cars that you find parked in the street.  There is no shortage of Aston Martins or Ferrari’s but one car caught my eye during this trip.  A Nissan Figaro!  Honestly never heard of it before seeing this one.  Appears they were made in 1991 only to an initial 8k production run and added 12k due to demand.  Sort of retro 50’s styling and unique convertible.

Found these on the web that better show the interior styling and a rather cool convertible top.  Too bad it only comes in an automatic.  Will have to keep on eye out for one that is stateside.

Finished off the day by visiting the Royal Albert Hall and catching a showing of Cirque de Soleil Varekai.

For all the pictures click here