What would you do...?

[irlmin]

If it was mine I would fit an MG 1100 spec engine with 4 synchro box , put the original unit in storage to keep options open for later . brake wise I would fit 'S' discs with 'S" offset wheels , again store the originals . My thinking is if you want to use the mini in todays traffic its better to be able to keep up and stop when you need to , also we all need a bit of enjoyment in this dull overly PC world we find ourselves in . the 1100 with 12G295 head is ideal as it looks similar to 850 and has enough power and torque to make it decent fun . G

[rolesyboy]

Last time I went out in an 850 that was in good shape (probably 10 years ago) it felt pretty scary amongst modern traffic. Intimidated by herds of Golf’s and Focus. It felt pedestrian at best.
The brakes (TLS) were actually fine in relative terms but with all that blistering power I suspect I could have dragged my feet on the tarmac to slow me down.

[Costafortune]

Last time I went out in an 850 that was in good shape (probably 10 years ago) it felt pretty scary amongst modern traffic. Intimidated by herds of Golf’s and Focus. It felt pedestrian at best.
The brakes (TLS) were actually fine in relative terms but with all that blistering power I suspect I could have dragged my feet on the tarmac to slow me down.

This is the problem with Minis in 2023 - they could rightly be considered deathtraps now. The last time I went out in one I certainly felt a bit...er...vulnerable.

[rolesyboy]

Oh yeh, if you ever need a reminder of vulnerability just remove your door cards for a month.
You soon realise that you have the equivalent of a baking tray for crash protection

[Peter Laidler]

All said, most owners and drivers of an old car, especially a 50 year old car such as the mini in question would probably treat it like the grand old lady that she is. No foot to the floor to see how she goes or what you can get out of it. But just a little gentle treatment. After all, a 50 year old car is a remarkable survivor.

[Polarsilver]

Who are you kidding Peter .. does not matter what the engine size is "Ask your Mini" what it wants and it will tell you to .. "Give it Some"

The secret is sensible tyres + S Brakes without Servo + Third Brake Light & go for a razz down the Lanes