You can make 200HP with much less work than a turbo. My last dyno had me at about 190 and that was before my CAI and before the planned exhaust and software upgrade. Those will easily have me a good bit over 200. The John Cooper Works cars are all over 200 with no turbo actually.
I have one... my second actually and I can say it's a blast. Anyone I have ever had doubt the car over the years, I have offered them a ride and a few lucky ones get a drive around the block and I haven't had a single person not be awed by what that little thing can do.
190+ HP, 2500 lbs and amazing suspension is a great thing.
I've seen a few straight turbos and twin charges and most have not been terribly reliable... fast as hell though.
It's much better on the curves than the straights, though it can easily hold it's own. The aerodynamics just don't lend too well to amazing acceleration, but I can't think of much that can beat me in a curve.
Sure, they aren't for everyone. But the best thing about having a tuned car is that it suits you and expresses who you are. I'd say my MINI fits me perfectly... well... as perfectly as a 5 figure car can
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