Gearhead Performance Group brings us another "new" Trans Am based on Camaro

Just how many versions of a "new" Trans Am will we ultimately see derived from the Camaro? While this writer certainly prefers a Pontiac over the Chevrolet version, is there that much of a demand in the market for a new TA? Or does everyone just have their own opinion on what it should look like?

Regardless of our opinion, there is indeed a third Camaro based Pontiac Trans Am replica coming to the market, this one from the Gearhead Performance Group.

One thing that instantly differentiates this TA from the others is the availability of a 900 horsepower 6.2 liter, twin turbo LS9 V8. That shouldn't have any problem getting the honeycombs spinning.

Video: Hennessey's HPE700 Camaro on the track

Hennessey has managed to shoehorn a ZR1's LS9 under the hood of a new Camaro, and tuned it to put out 705 horsepower. Not only did they add some serious power, they added some serious suspension parts to make it handle as well as it goes in a straight line.

Of course they wanted to make sure that it lives up to all that promise, so they set out to wring the car out at the track. Specifically, MSR Houston. Check out the video to hear all the sweet sounds of the LS9, and watch the car pull 1g on some turns.

2014 Ford Mustang to have IRS?

If there ever was a gripe about the venerable Mustang since the SN95 platform was introduced back in 1994, it's that it still has a solid rear axle and no IRS, not even as an option. The argument has always been that an independent rear suspension would add too much to the cost of the car, which is supposed to be an affordable American muscle car.

Now it appears that Ford may finally be changing it's mind, as Motor Trend is reporting. Rumor is IRS will make it's full time debut in the Mustang in time for it's 50th anniversary in 2014. MT thinks that the most likely option is a much revised chassis.

One thing that isn't likely, however, is the Mustang sharing it's platform with any other car. And the rumors of V8 power going away altogether are pretty moot at this point as well, as Ford just rolled out it's new 5.0 V8 to much fanfare. One things for sure, they've got plenty of time to think about it.