An Interesting story, and a very collectible Viper!

Joseph Houss

Former VCA National President
VCA Officer
Joined
Jul 19, 2000
Posts
3,330
Reaction score
0
Location
NJ USA
So here's the deal:

One of the software vendors we work with is Barr systems. They develop quite sophisticated print server software, etc.

I'm browsing through a dominant trade pub called "In Plant Graphics" and find this:

14Barr_systems_ad-med.jpg


So, considering that we are a loyal customer of Barr, and utilize their software in both our NY and FL plants, I write them a sincere note:

Hi all,

As you know, Interstate EDP, in Brooklyn, NY and our other company Automated Direct Mail, in Riviera Beach, FL rely on Barr Systems for all their print spooling! So it is with this in mind, that I am staring at your latest advertisement in IN-PLANT GRAPHICS and wondering why your "Dream Machine" pictured is one that surely doesn't persuade me into believing that you have the fastest environment Management solution available. Of course, I jest! But as the National President of the Viper Club of America, my slightly jaded opinion would surely recommend changing your image to a much more appropriate, American supercar. One that truly stands up to your references to reliability (track record), AND absolutely lightening fast delivery...as well as being built in America.... just like BARR's Output Management Solutions. You may not have this historic information, but our AMERICAN produced Dodge Viper was the first US built car EVER to run to an overall 1st place in the 24 hours of Daytona (there are actually 4 unique races going on at once during this race), and 3 consecutive years of class wins at the prestigious internationally renown, 24 hours of LeMans.

Needless to say, I'd be glad to offer my car for badging with the BARR logos (Gratis!), and can also connect you to some of my very dear friends that race in SPEED channel's world challenge series, where you could have National Television exposure on just about every weekend. (Take a look at www.speedworldchallenge.com for a website that focuses on the Vipers that race in the series).

By the way, your ad mentions "V10 turbo-charged", which is not an available engine in the 911 series Porsche (6 cylinder ONLY)..... but, a V10 IS the ONLY engine available in our Dodge Vipers! ... and many, many have supercharged, or turbocharged add-ons that boost horsepower to over 1000! That's right, Barr, is surely the best at what they do, but please, let's find a supercar that performs with the same reliability and speed as your software!

Hope this brings a smile to everyone's face!

Sincerely,
Interstate EDP & Direct Mail Center, Inc
Joseph Houss, Vice President AND Viper Club of America, National President!
[email protected]
Phone: 718-965-2500

About a month later, I receive a package in the mail, that included a letter .... and a gift. Here's the letter:

Dear Joe,

I am writing to thank you for your recent feedback regarding our "Dream Machine" ad campaign and the ad you saw in In-Plant Graphics. I am glad to see that you got into our ad in such a complete manner.

When planning the 2003-2004 campaign, I was aware that the Porsche was not technically the most powerful car on the market. However, we did have certain limitations and so we settled on the Porsche because of its well-known status. Also, I must admit that I took license with the engine, knowing fully that Porsche offer a V-10 only in the Carrera GT.

As a result of your e-mail, our marketing department decided to try out your recommendation of a "much more appropriate, American supercar" - the Viper. We have included with this letter a prototype designed expecially for you. We hope it was what you had in mind!

Again, I thank you for your feedback and hope you enjoy your new Barr "dream machine"

Sincerely,

John Rayl
Creative Director

and here's the car:

14DSC01351-med.JPG
 

Lawrenzo

Enthusiast
Joined
Feb 9, 2001
Posts
1,752
Reaction score
4
Location
Colorado Springs
If you ever want to sell please drop me a note :cool:

<<<<---------- I'm having a problem finding any yellow with black models!
 

Members online

Forum statistics

Threads
153,566
Posts
1,684,648
Members
18,130
Latest member
Andyk753
Top