[DeTomaso] NPC Anyone Got a Mini Cooper?

[Art Stephens]

   I have a pick up truck as a daily driver that gets 13 mpg and a Pantera that doesn't!  With gas at $3.50 for a gallon of regular,  I'm thinking maybe it is time for a third vehicle,  one that gets decent fuel economy.  I've heard such great things about the Mini and the way it handles,  that I went out and test drove one yesterday.  Unfortunately,  I was disappointed.  I've never owned a front wheel drive vehicle,  but I've driven a few.  I don't know if the Mini is known for torque steer or not,  but I knew the minute I stepped on the gas that this was not a rear drive car.  It just didn't feel right to me.  Maybe this was the best power to weight ratio front driver that I have ever driven,  and maybe that was the cause?  Or maybe it is the combo of front drive and sharp steering?  I don't know,  but all I could think was,  "I wish I was driving my Pantera instead".  My question is,  are there any Pantera drivers out there that enjoy driving the new Mini?  If so,  did you like it immediately,  or did it take some getting used to?

Art