From MotoringFile MINI USA is continuing to hype the attempted match-up with Porsche on June 21st at Road Atlanta. The latest effort is the idea of creating a limited edition set to commemorate the race. We’re told that MINI has yet to decide if they will have the collectors set and bringing them to market would likely depend on the race actually happening. But suffice to say the handful of pre-production sets already produced will be highly sought after if no more are made. What do you think? Regardless of whether or not the race is run, would you be interested the set you see above? Vote on the MotoringFile site.
Well here's another angle on this. I've spent 6 years and not an insignificant amount of money developing my 2003 Cooper S to ensure I beat most 911's at my track. However, my engine bench tested at 271HP (actually not my actual 2006 engine, but the big-valve cylinder head, cam and porting setup that I have, done by my engine tuner). I don't think MINI can do that right now with a production R56. I do put most Porsches, not all, to shame though. Rather than a point-by I have to deal with disappointment as they exit-creep into the pit lane while I am all over their tailpipes. MINI does have a shot though in the tight sections if they do the suspension right. Not that idiotic set of stock choices they have. Why don't they have coilovers as a factory installed option?
Coming to soon to your local MINI Dealer parts counter, only $24.99. Love it or hate it, this campaign has people talking, comments on other sites are very mixed, but it has people talking with more exposure to MINI.
So, all this hype and MINI sells t-shirts and model cars. Brilliant! Good thing they're in the real car bidness.