Hacked!

Posted on by Ian C.

Sorry about that 😦

Some “tactical” fools decided to replace the “SSI” file on my site – this file normally creates the right hand column of links, etc and so instead allowed them to temporarily overlay every one of my webpages with some junk graphic.

The original file is back and all seems fine – as far as I can tell, they were able to do this because by default MovableType deliberately creates files with the “world write” attribute turned on! Don’t know why, but it’s annoying.

I’ve turned it off, and asked MT for guidance; meanwhile I’m hoping that (a) it doesn’t cause any other troubles and (b) my site is now safe again.

I suppose I should be flattered that someone thought my site worth targetting! 😉

MTTS – Stick It!

Posted on by Ian C.

With MINI Takes The States coming up fast, Todd (famous on White Roof Radio) has brought out some fabulous MTTS designs on his website, Todds Mods:
MINItakesTheStatesSticker.jpg

I bought a sticker (above) and a magnetic badge – both are beautiful and incredible quality; the stickiness of the sticker is amazing, I don’t think it’ll ever peel off my file … and my fridge is now nicely MTTS decorated so Margaret can see my route next month 😉

If you’re into MINI Takes The States, this badge/sticker design is recommended!

Autoweek reviews the GP

Posted on by Ian C.

AutoWeekFeaturesGP.jpg

… a host of detailed improvements (including a new supercharger, re-mapped engine management and revised cooling) that increase output to 214 hp at 7100 rpm. A standard Cooper S makes just 168 hp, and the Cooper S Works – upon which this car is heavily based – makes 207 hp. Torque is up, too, at 184 lb-ft at 4600 rpm. The 4 lb-ft increase over the Cooper S Works may not seem like much, but it has a dramatic effect on how the new car drives …
… pumped-up bodywork gives the game away. Beyond injecting a touch of aggressiveness into the Mini’s appearance, its maker claims the kit significantly alters the GP’s aerodynamic properties, reducing lift while improving airflow to the engine for increased cooling …
… the GP sacrifices its rear seat and some sound deadening material from the rear of the floorpan. Their absence drops the weight by 120 pounds, bringing it down to just 2508 pounds …

Go here for the full online review

Not convinced about the accuracy of some of the details, such as the 120 pound weight loss, and the claim that “more than one-third of a limited total production run is bound for North America” – that would be 667 or more, compared with the 415 actually coming (Canada doesn’t get the GP) … but apart from that, a great review and well worth grabbing a copy of the magazine!

(also mentioned by MotoringFile today)