MINI Convertible press release

Posted on by Ian C.

I recently bought (from model-mann on eBay) a New York 2004 press release featuring the debut of the MINI Convertible. As well as standard press release text and a CDR, there is a nice “Encyclopedia of Open Motoring” with suggestions for motoring in the Convertible; the contents include such articles as “The Law Of The Top”, “What If Nature Happens” and “What About Hair”:


There is also a “Convertible Contract”: MINI owner hereby agrees to motoring with the top in down, or open position, at least 90% o an operating period. this time period only applicable while MINI Convertible remains in the legal possession of MINI owner. MINI USA recognizes and hereby agrees 10% of an operating period allows for MINI Convertible top be in the up, or closed position.

Apparently the MINI Convertible will be delivered open, with a seal over the close switch:


It will be interesting to see whether MINI USA actually follows through with this plan … will there be MINI Convertible police to enforce the 90/10 rule? 😉

COOPERS For CAREGIVERS Is Coming!

Posted on by Ian C.

This weekend is the Coopers For Caregivers drive around the north shore – we have 18 MINIs attending.
The purpose of the drive (apart from meeting other MINI owners and having fun) is to draw attention to caregivers and caregiver support. The drive will deliver a “thank you” gift basket to a selected caregiver in each of the 9 towns of Cape Ann.

Yesterday I bought some “MINI sized” gift baskets, small enough to fit in the trunk of a MINI. I had the idea of putting a model MINI in each basket as a delivery memento for the caregiver. Today I visited the local Auto Fanatics here in Essex, because I needed some wheel cleaner. I mentioned the event and asked if they had any inexpensive models.
Unfortunately the lowest priced model at short notice was $20+ but they were prepared to significantly reduce the price to support the event – so I purchased 9 models:


Thank you to Auto Fanatics – check them out if you need model cars or car care stuff.

Thanks also to MINI USA who are supporting the event with a “MINI back pack” donation for each of the attending MINIs:

More Chrome for GBMINI

Posted on by Ian C.

Todays visit to MINI Peabody resulted in the purchase of a chrome tailgate (as fitted to MINI Cooper) to replace the body coloured one (standard on MINI Cooper S). Got a few tips on installation (remove six screws from panel on tailgate interior and remove panel, remove four torx screws, disconnect plug … “refitting is reverse of removal” … Thank you Gary for the installation tips, and Scott for supplying the part …

I also recently bought (from eBay) a chrome antenna mount which fits over the original MINI mount … subtle but fun!