It's not whether you win or lose, but how you play the game

Nothing says "I can" like the good old fashioned challenge.

In this web video, the head of Mini U.S. challenges the president of Porsche to a road race. That's a pretty bold move, some might say risky, but imagine the upside if Mini pulls it off.



The Mini is a special car - it's, well, mini, which makes it cute. It gets good gas mileage, fits in small spaces, combines slick modern design with retro influence, appeals to hipsters and prepsters alike, and it's fun as hell.

But, faster than a Porsche? Even the loyalist of loyal Mini drivers probably wouldn't bet the farm on that.

Whether or not it's truly capable of beating Porsche to the finish line, we won't know until June 21st - and that assumes Porsche's president accepts the challenge. Until then, it's a statement daring enough to make us re-think what we thought we knew about Mini's DNA.

The insight here feels something like this - people like the Mini; in fact, some people love the Mini. It's an endearing sort of car; but its owners view it more as a toy than an aggressive driving machine. Strategy: prove this hip little leisure car has as much power as curb appeal by beating one of the fastest sports cars around in a race.

What's in it for Mini if it wins? New, earned respect. And if it loses? New, earned respect.

The challenge itself, presented by none other than the head of Mini - who happens to come from Porsche and claims to have owned 12 Porsches over the years (!) - is enough to make a statement. And making a statement is what Mini is all about, right?

Think about it - if Mini races Porsche and Mini loses, will anyone be surprised? Mini could write it all off as a goof and get away with it. If Porsche loses, on the other hand, that's a problem.

Win or lose, this is ON STRATEGY.