Fuel Economy
Winner: Mazda3
Loser: BMW E30
This is a toss up. We've had winners from all over the board, but our new drive route with traffic, stop lights, and fewer downhill runs will change this. So, based on what we know about the drive route and the drivers, the Mazda3 should win just by pure lack of displacement, assuming they stay off the boost. Just on account of the size and age of the engine and the supercharger constantly churning, the BMW should end up the gas guzzler of the group.
Quarter-Mile E.T.
Winner: Lancer Evolution X
Loser: NSX
While the Skyline GT-R has always been the big dog of the quarter-mile, the new Evo and STI might have the power advantage this time. And with the drag racing experience of AMS, the EVO should come out on top, assuming the new transmission can deal with drag launches. The NSX, even with its instant naturally aspirated torque, just isn't setup to launch.
20-100mph Acceleration
Winner: R32 Skyline GT-R
Loser: Coupe Quattro
When it comes to sheer brute force and power, the older GT-R will prevail, even if you can't drag race. So our vote is for the R32. The Coupe Quattro's NA engine and soap box aerodynamics will definitely hold it back.
80-0mph Braking
Winner: GT-R
Loser: BMW E30
Even with its weight, have you seen the size of the brakes on the new GT-R? Even with monster wheels and brakes, few aftermarket modified cars can come close to the absolute stopping distance of an OEM electronically controlled car. Track braking is another story all together. The BMW should lose on account of the added weight and old school brakes.
Skid Pad
Winner: WRX STI
Loser: Mazda3
Better tires or not, the front drivers always hurt in this competition because they will always understeer. Based on what we saw from last year's widebody STI, the STI this year should take the win with its 275-width R-comps and race car diffs.
Lap Times
Winner: Impreza L
Loser: Mazda3
Light weight, all-wheel drive, modern traction controls, and rally champ family lineage will probably put the Impreza out front in terms of lap times. But it won't be by far if at all. And even with the World Challenge suspension secrets, the Mazda still won't be able to put its massive power down to get around our tight track configuration.
Gross Display of Power
Winner: BMW E30
Loser: WRX STI or GT-R
We've seen the Groma guys' take on the Gross Display of Horsepower and they are relentless. With a short wheelbase, monster power and torque, the little 3-series that could will easily put down more smoke than we can see through. As for the losers, either the STI will break, or the GT-R will just sit there in all its technological sophistication, very confused as to what the driver is trying to do.