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After the demise of our first mini, we had to decide what to replace it with. Should we look for another one or perhaps was it time for a change? We considered other cars such as the Peugeot 205 or, particularly, the Nissan Micra (Incidentally, which car inspired the Micra's appearance anyway? There's got to be some mini there) but it was another mini which caught Michele's eye.
This one was another Mini Mayfair, though this time with an enormous engine of 1275cc! This afforded us the opportunity to drive on the level at 70 MPH, which our original 998cc car could never do, at least without a very stiff breeze behind it!
The differences between this mini and its predecessor ran to far more than just its ability to keep up with modern traffic! Its interior was verging on the luxurious to the extent that Michele described it as being "like a Rolls-Royce! " There was a walnut dashboard as well as seats that were comfortable enough to sit in even for quite long journeys without risking severe backache. The only improvement we could think of was to add a wooden steering wheel - much nicer to hold than the original plastic hoop!
We ran this car until the middle of 2000 with very little trouble, although the engine immobiliser was occasionally a little overzealous. In fact, we only sold it because we no longer needed two cars. Whilst it would have been nice to keep it on, as an only car it wouldn't have been practical - for example cramming the dog in the back, whilst possible, wasn't a lot of fun - either for us or for him..
We both miss minis, in different ways and for different reasons. I always found it a refreshing change to drive something with such personality - the only car I ever owned which even came close to this was my much missed Lancia coupe, whilst Michele misses the camaraderie which exists between mini drivers, particularly the frequent friendly waves exchanged when two pass each other!
We haven't totally severed our ties with these wondrous machines because we've kept our membership of the owners' club and, who knows - perhaps we'll have another one day - they do make very good playthings!