The latest two MINI gimmicks, Coupe and Roadster, made their U.S. debut at the latest edition of Los Angeles Auto Show. MINI Roadster Concept two seater sports a tight-fitting soft roof and innovative rear-end design. It is a new model that opens up new perspectives both in the context of the brand and in the segment of compact roadsters.
The MINI Roadster Concept is powered by the 1.6-liter twin-scroll turbocharged engine already featured in the MINI Cooper S. Boasting direct gasoline injection, this power unit delivers maximum output of 175 horsepower and peak torque of 240 Nm/177 lb-ft increasing briefly with the Overboost function to an even more superior 260 Nm/192 lb-ft.
The new two-seater measures 3,714 millimeters (146.2″) in length and 1,683 millimeters (66.3″) in width. Height of the car is 1,356 millimeters or 53.4″.
Inside, the dashboard and center console all follow the particular style of interior design so typical of MINI. Horizontal lines and air vents positioned far to the outside accentuate the sheer width of the dashboard and, at the same time, the generous look and dimensions of the interior. The slender center console, in turn, offers the driver and passenger maximum legroom and freedom of movement.
The rev counter on the MINI Roadster Concept again comes directly behind the steering wheel, with the speedometer forming part of the central instrument in the upper section of the centre console. Well-known as the Center Speedo, this striking instrument also comprises the audio system as well as the car’s entertainment and navigation functions.
The MINI Roadster Concept comes with a multi-functional display in the cockpit enabling the driver to choose the information presented.
The other twin, MINI Coupe Concept, is based on the John Cooper Works bodystyle, measures 146.1 inches overall, 66.1 inches wide and 53.3 inches tall. It was designed as a two seater which brings out the idea of a MINI roadster vehicle rather than a coupe. Due to its rear-end design line, the MINI Coupe Concept lacks trunk space, the only storage space is behind the seats. The cargo space measures about 8.8 cubic feet and in the production model, it will be accessible through the a big hatch.
Under the hood, MINI Coupe Concept uses the same engine from JCW, a 1.6 liter four cylinder turbocharged engine which produces 211 horsepower and 260 Nm (192 lb-ft) of torque.
Inside, the MINI Coupe Concept sports an exclusive range of colors and materials. The MINI Coupé Concept combines the vision of a compact sports car with thrilling agility, on the one hand, and the individual flair and style of the MINI, on the other. A three-spoke leather sports steering wheel with multifunction buttons enables the driver to steer precisely into bends and control the audio or communication functions with maximum ease. All other control units, in turn, are arranged ergonomically on the dashboard, taking their frequency of use into account. The breakdown of the cockpit, the dashboard and center console again follows that special interior design so typical of MINI. Horizontal lines and air vents placed far to the outside emphasize the sheer width of the instrument panel and, at the same time, the generous style of the interior, the slender center console giving the driver and passenger maximum legroom.
Both concepts are expect to enter production in the second half of 2010 with sales beginning in early 2011.
Author: Horatiu B.
Source: http://www.bmwblog.com/2009/12/08/l-a-a ... -concepts/