Quote:
Originally Posted by DGthe3
The Motor Trend comparo was a different track so it is entirely possible that it suited the Mustang better, while VIR suits the M3 better. Whether its the suspension setup or the torque curve of the engine or the individual gear ratios. While the two cars are similar, they're still not the same. And those small differences will express themselves as you go from track to track.
Driver skill probably plays a role too, but finding someone who is an expert driver in each car they test is impossible. The next best alternative would to get a handful of experts with different backgrounds and have each of them do a couple hotlaps then average the results. Unfortunately, that would probably take about a weeks worth of testing. As for the driver they did use, I don't know who they use or what his experience is. I assume that it is a member of their staff who has some professional driving experience. If so, he would have a fair amount of wheel time in a large variety of cars - but an expert in none, which would be ideal for this type of comparison.
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Actually VIR was hand selected as the track they used in the 2011 GT500 press launch due to its high speed smooth surface so I think its safe to say that the Mustang is just as well suited at VIR as it was at Willow.
I don't think it's that hard of a task to find another driver to pilot the GT500 around VIR in under 3 minutes, and can cleanly do a 2-3 shift w/o grinding or riding the rev limiter through the whole turn like this pathetic driver.