Corvette Redline HTR-GS640/SC asks, why pay more for a ZR1?

In the world of ultra high performance cars, typically the old adage "you get what you pay for" is an applicable term. People who get into this sort of car, like the Corvette ZR1 or a number of other exotics, expect to pay big money for their big performance. But every now and then, a good value pops up.

In this case, that value is the Redline HTR-GS640/SC (try saying that ten times fast). The car has been dreamed up and built by Howard Tanner of Redline Motorsports and Dan Carlton of DeNooyer Performance, and is based on a base Corvette Grand Sport. Howard and Dan add an Edelbrock E-Force supercharger, a bigger cam, and tougher valve springs and push rods.

The end result is an $82,000 that is fully capable of embarrassing the more expensive ZR1 in a race. You can even get a warranty for three years or 36,000 miles, trade in another car, or get financing. Check out their website for all the details.

Video: Jay Leno gets a close up of Mustang Boss 302 Laguna Seca Edition

We've said it before, and we'll say it again - Jay Leno is a *ahem* lucky man. He not only owns one of the greatest car collections in the world, but he also gets access to things that most people never could. His status as not only a celebrity, but as a certified car nut, get him places most of us can only dream of.

Leno was on hand at the unveiling of the 2012 Ford Mustang Boss 302 and the Laguna Seca Edition. Sporting more features and unique color and graphics schemes, the Laguna is a special beast. Leno caught up Tom Barnes, the vehicle engineering manager for the Mustang, and got to talk to him about the car for the latest episode of Jay Leno's Garage.

Video(s): Mustang GT vs. BMW M3

Out of all the cars the Ford Mustang is compared to, most are rear wheel drive, V8 powered muscle cars. This is a natural comparison. Most people expect a little trade off in ride quality, fit and finish, and other niceties when driving a muscle car. It's just part of the deal, right?

Well, maybe not so much. Fit and finish, along with ride quality, are on the rise with each new iteration of pony car. The newest version of the Mustang has by far the nicest interior and highest quality of any previous version. But is it on par with the BMW M3, in both quality and speed?

Well maybe not quality. But in terms of not only straight line quickness, but cornering as well, the Mustang can certainly hang with its dramatically more expensive German brethren. Just how well, you ask? You'll just have to check out the videos to see.



Source: Motor Trend