So, what's it like? Page II
Q. Is it what you expected?
A. No, it's better! The HP is almost spot-on what I estimated, weight is
lower than guessed, highway MPG is way over when I had anticipated (I had
estimated it to be close to what it is, but I didn't think I'd really hit
those numbers), and the overall package to me seems better than the sum of
its parts. I don't see it anywhere in my buildup text, but I also remember
telling myself and anyone who would listen I'd be happy with a 12.99x 1/4 mi
timeslip on street tires in full street trim, and I achieved that as well
(12.78 being my current best ET as of Feb 2006).
Q. Any regrets?
A. Only that I couldn't have done this 10 years earlier. In 2006 there
are hundreds if not thousands of cars more powerful. What I have here is
technology available in 1996, and in 1996 even the Porsche Turbos are
slower. In other words, no real regrets. I do wish Nissan hadn't come out
with the lighter, more displacement VQ35, it gives me "engine envy".