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?
