Well, as it says, I'm comparing my 2015 FiST to my older 2011 Mini Cooper S. Unfortunately, I never took my FoST to the track due to the brakes tendancy to overheat way too early.
The biggest difference I noticed is the brakes in the FiST lasted for the entire session (6-7 laps) all three sessions. The Mini's pedal became soft after 2 laps. Even with RBF 600 fluid in the Mini and completely stock in the FiST.
Also, the Mini is faster in a straight line and certainly feels faster. The FiST pulled 107 mph on the back straight whereas the Mini pulled 113 mph. Total lap time in the FiST was 2:20 compared to the mini's 2:17, similar conditions.
Another suprise was the FiST's lack of ability to rotate properly compared to the Mini and on a side note, especially compared to the FoST.
However, what I liked most about the FiST was its ability to set up on brakes before a turn. It loads well and turns in well. Also, on a slightly banked right hander, I managed to pull 1.1g! Yes, it was banked, but most of the cars there wouldn't dare to take it as fast as the little Fiesta.
Overall, I am very pleased with the way the car handled itself. The brakes impressed me the most. I will however be re-enforcing the chassis and adding some more power as well as better tires.
It really is exactly what I expected it to be and with just a few, inexpensive mods, will be the perfect track-rat for both my wife and I.
The biggest difference I noticed is the brakes in the FiST lasted for the entire session (6-7 laps) all three sessions. The Mini's pedal became soft after 2 laps. Even with RBF 600 fluid in the Mini and completely stock in the FiST.
Also, the Mini is faster in a straight line and certainly feels faster. The FiST pulled 107 mph on the back straight whereas the Mini pulled 113 mph. Total lap time in the FiST was 2:20 compared to the mini's 2:17, similar conditions.
Another suprise was the FiST's lack of ability to rotate properly compared to the Mini and on a side note, especially compared to the FoST.
However, what I liked most about the FiST was its ability to set up on brakes before a turn. It loads well and turns in well. Also, on a slightly banked right hander, I managed to pull 1.1g! Yes, it was banked, but most of the cars there wouldn't dare to take it as fast as the little Fiesta.
Overall, I am very pleased with the way the car handled itself. The brakes impressed me the most. I will however be re-enforcing the chassis and adding some more power as well as better tires.
It really is exactly what I expected it to be and with just a few, inexpensive mods, will be the perfect track-rat for both my wife and I.