December 7, 2006:

MotoringFile “reviews” the GP

Actually more of a “phone call” about the GP than a review …
Gabe does describe the GP as “utterly fantastic” and it’s performance is “intoxicating”, but he also drives it quite aggressively during a cold snow storm resulting in minimal grip, where he describes it as “completely useless in anything but dry weather” … have a listen!

UPDATE:
Gabe has posted part 2 of his “podcast” review - it includes some excellent acceleration sounds, and lots more discussion about the tires …

Posted by GPMINI at 06:50 pm | Uncategorized
Comments: 4

  1. GP 1543 USA (2006/12/07 @ 9:42 pm)

    I was on tirerack.com looking at some winters for the gp and notice they do not recommend using the dunlops 18″ run flats in the snow. I guess I am definately locked into getting snow tires then.

  2. Gabe (2006/12/09 @ 8:33 am)

    I would not even think of driving my own MINI on the Dunlops in any weather colder than 40 degrees. The compound of summer performance tire (including these) does not adhere to the road at temps that cold - they’re not designed to. So yes, they are useless in the winter if you expect traction

    I had the same Dunlops last year when I had my JCW wheels and know them all too well. They’re passable in the dry, but as one would expect, useless in the winter. I’d strongly recommend getting a set other either good all-season tires or dedicated snow tires for winter if you live in a colder environment.

  3. Ian C. (2006/12/09 @ 8:39 am)

    Gabe,
    Thanks! I went out in GPMINI last night (because GBMINI was boxed in); tire grip was OK but I drove “smart” too.
    When I braked to park on snow, there was loads of ABS, and pulling away there was lots of DSC; but on clear road, even at 18 degrees, the tires didn’t squeak the *one* time I tested harder acceleration.
    But of course there’s no way I was going to drive in a “GP-normal” style - and the hard rubber makes itself well known by the poorer ride quality.

  4. gabe (2006/12/09 @ 5:31 pm)

    At temps that cold I’d be surprised if the tires actually sqeaked.

Post a comment:
  •  
  •  
  •