Last June, I traveled to Manaoag, Pangasinan to have my new delivery van blessed. It was also the first time I was going to drive through SCTEX (Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway). I loved traveling through this highway because there were less cars and the scenery is relaxing. A lot of greenery can be seen and this just relaxes any motorist. The downside is that you need to make sure you have enough gas because there are no gas stations at any point along SCTEX. Well, not for now. I believe fast food joints will soon mushroom on this highway.

Toll fees are not cheap at SCTEX. However, there are savings to be had by taking this highway: savings in both time and money. It was a real joy to traverse. Then, out of nowhere, I saw a long line of Austin Mini-Coopers traveling the same highway.

It was so nice seeing a lot of these classics still in good working condition. The creation of the Austin Mini Cooper was prompted by the world fuel shortage of the late 1950s and 1960s. When necessity becomes the mother of invention, ingenuity takes over production, as what happened to the Austin Mini Cooper.

Manufacturers began experimenting with front-wheel drive with the radiator placed on the left side and not usual wide front mount as seen in most front wheel drive cars. The ride can be bumpy as the Mini has been known to use cylindrical rubber as shock dampers and not the usual coil springs. This actually gives the car a rather bumpy ride, as well as the go-kart feel which the Mini is famous for.

Some of the Minis were obviously without air conditioning which is why they all had to make stops at gas stations. However, those who did have air-conditioning were quite the site to marvel at.

Thanks a bunch to the owners of these Mini Coopers! It was great seeing you and your cars!