Why not? The M3 is also one of the world's best handling cars with a racing heritage. Isn't the point to show what a lower priced MINI can do against a higher priced opponent? But, if MINI showed up the M3 they could damage sales of their parent company.

A better question is why would they challenge Porsche? It's not like Porsche and MINI are anywhere near the same market niche. This seems like big brother BMW sent their little brother MINI out to do their fighting for them.

Check out the 997 forums on 6speedonline or rennlist. Viewing doesn't require registration.

 

 

I'll tell you why. Even though they aren't in the same niche, I'm guessing it's one of those "as soon as you get to prison, knock the biggest guy out" kind of ideas. I agree with you. They aren't in the same niche. As much as I'd love to see a Porsche vs MINI challenge, I'd rather see MINI challenge all the econo boxes that claim to be just as good as a MINI. They could call out the Honda Fit, whatever X vehicle Scion is calling their's this week, etc. It is great to see MINI show enthusism like this though. I will soon be like you. I've owned Minis since I was stationed in England and bought my first R50 in 2003 and although I love the cars, I'm leaving the game soon too. I won't be getting a Porsche though!!

 

I looked at the thread on Rennlist regarding this challenge, and the vast majority realize that it's just good marketing and many are disappointed that Porsche turned it down (for now). There are a couple people who are reinforcing stereotypes, but most are taking it for what it is... a fun PR stunt.

 

MINI challenged Porsche because Jim McDowell used to work for them. Did you not listen to the response by Porsche they state it that he worked for them.

 

DUH!!!!! I think we all know dude worked for Porsche at one time. That's not the only reason. Publicity is the name of the game.

 

So I live quite close to the North American headquarters of Porsche and there is a small plane flying around pulling a banner that says "Bring It - MINI"

 

I'm quite gullible, so are you serious?

 

^Pictures of said plane?

 

I'm serious. Couldn't get a photo of it, hopefully someone else did. Camera is at my house.

 

I could see Jim McDowell making the most of this, actually. If the race doesn't go off, then this (the whole marketing plan) will all be over on June 21st.

 

I have seen the pic. MINI USA posted it on facebook. It says Dear Porsche, bring it. Love, MINI. Now that is awesome!!!!

 

I just looked at the plane on Facebook, that's awesome.

 

Mini Summer Motoring Gear in Deep South = T-shirt , Flip Flops .
We Win Easy ! Flip Flops Motors always win !
Geaux Cooper ! Geaux !

 

Porsche is crazy not to do this now! I think MINI has increased sales by at least 1% because of this so far lol

 

If nothing else, I have to believe that this "chapter" in MINI's life is designed to move a little bit beyond the "cute little car" syndrome. We all know that the first thing we all hear when people know we own a MINI or see it is "what a cute car". But we also know that it has couple well kept secrets.

I think that by challenging Porsche this way, Jim is still having a little fun, but at the same time the inevitable question will be, "is MINI crazy to challenge Porsche to a race?" The reality is that the race is likely to be closer than the average person would imagine and then dollar for dollar, the MINI wins by default, even if we lose.

And if the race never happens... imagine the T-shirt that Jim McDowell will wear at his next public appearance!

 

This made me giggle a little bit when I put it on the rear windscreen! Made by "Signs Today" in Palatine, IL.

BRING IT PORSCHE!

 

some grown man told me i had a cute car the other day....

it was strange...

 

While I love my cooper (clubman s), I also drive a P car. Check out the latest Excellence magazine. The Werks 1 tuner 997 Turbo is turning in a 0 to 60 time of 2.6 seconds and laps around PBIR within 3 seconds of a Porsche Cup car. If Porsche brings Walter Rorhl or puts one of the factory ALMS drivers in the seat, Mini will be hard pressed to stay along. What is a Mini's fastest lap at the Nurburgring?

Being an old guy, I can remember the JCW original Mini's beating the Corvettes at Summit Point. Great stuff.

I will remain neutral, but must admit it could be very entertaining.

 

Nurburgring might have some twisties, but there are just too many Mile+ long straights for a MINI to do exceptionally well.

 

Well the event is now open to the public. Hope to see some of you there. We got an invite last week, but I'm really happy we are going to get to share with all our MINI friends.

 

So it will become an event with or without Porsche? I won't be able to make it, but I want whatever T-shirt comes out of this!

 

I know Jack with MINIBee's motoring merchandise has made a bunch of the shirts that Jim McDowell was wearing. http://www.cafepress.com/minibee/7195263

 

Got this from a friend's Facebook page.

Madness MINI Cooper S vs. Porsche: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9UOpWoU0OZU. See, it can be done!

 

One of the things I love most about that video is the cameras field of view showing the Porsche in the rearview mirror. Too funny!