Case study: used coupés

0-100 km/h: 7,01 seconds Top speed: 230 km/h Power: 135 kw Torque: 240 N.m CO2: 146 g/km Fuel consumption: 7,56 L/100 km (fuel index)

Some years back, the Mini was available in truly avant-garde styles: the Roadster and the Coupé. Given that Mini buyers are never boring, some want to stand out from the fraternity. You can choose a roadster but most of the time – for safety and heat reasons – the roof will be shut so we will concentrate on the fixed-head version instead.

The Cooper produces 90 kw whereas the Cooper S version is turbocharged and sports 135 kw. If you want the top output, the JCW offers 155 kw. Both manual and automatic trans‐ missions have six speeds. Two more different sports coupés you could not find, yet their 1,6-litre turbo engines are closely related by the joint development of BMW and the PSA Group. Only states of tune, largely from turbo and valve timing adjustments, differ.

Customisation is part of the Mini charm, so you may find a variety of colour combinations and features that differ from car to car. Rear seating is non-existent but the luggage trunk can hold a reasonable 256 litres. This is very much single or couple’s transport, or a second car for weekends. A large hatch is fitted for easier loading of the boot. Not all will find the instrumentation appealing, yet, tradition wins the day and the oversized speedometer takes centre stage with the rev counter sited directly in front of the driver. Paintwork is two-tone with a black roof being the most popular, followed by red. It is not ideal in the summer heat, although recently air-conditioning has been fitted to almost every car sold in South Africa.

Several reports have surfaced regarding an unusual problem with fuel-pump failures as well as the oil pump solenoid allowing capillary action, sending engine oil up into the wiring harness. This can lead to electrical failures. It is best to ask a competent Mini mechanic to inspect these as repairs are costly. Another issue is carbon build-up owing to direct petrol injection. The signs are engine warning lamp illumination and rough running. The remedy is to remove and thoroughly clean the inlet manifold. Sales were suspended at the end of 2015, so supply is limited.