We attended our first track in the evolve MINI yesterday at Donnington.

We were meant to have the prototype Nitron coilovers on the car by this time but they were not ready yet. I couldn't face going with standard suspension so made a few changes as detailed above.

17" Miras Wheels (7.2 KGS), Kumho V70A Tyres, Eibach Springs, Rear 19mm Sway Bar, JCW Discs, Ferodo Brake Fluid, Performance Friction Pads and KDS Suspension Alignment.

Running on road legal slicks up to Donny on Sunday morning I was not very happy to see the rain. After a few sighting laps the car had much more grip than I expected.

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Sounded good going past the pits too...

[YOUTUBE]mK_mAOm4u7E[/YOUTUBE]

After the first 2 stints on the track we ran out of V Power and to slum it with BP 97 Octane. The car was noticeably slower but didn't ruin the fun!

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Little video made with iPhone - I have some GoPro HD video - just need to process it.

[YOUTUBE]xmBW_PR3ucU[/YOUTUBE]

The car held out very well. As there was 2 of us driving it on track it got double the use it normally would. As I would come in Sal would take it out on some occaisions!

We ran for at least 25 mins each time. The tyres were impressive too once warmed up properly. Grip levels in the dry were very good and inspired lots of confidence. The traction light did not flicker too often either. I don't have experience with R888's so can't provide a direct comparison.

The basic suspension and brake set up also impressed. The set up would benefit from improved damping for track use (it is a very good set up for road use) but was well balanced on the whole and did not roll as much as we expected.

Overall it was very fun to drive, being used to RWD cars I wasn't expected to be so entertained by the little MINI.

Hope do more track days very soon with the Nitrons on!

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