This is a perfect example of engineering and technological differences that yield very close results from totally different platforms.
Physics would tell us that the Si will need to nearly double the mid to high end TQ/HP with a 2 length pull to make up the deficiency to win. True said in that we can't look at stock-to-stock numbers. DRIVER's RACE.
I have been looking into the 1994-2001 Acura Integras lately. I am considering picking one up. The ease of modification on these little ricers and available aftermarket products is enticing. Different technology - different crowd - Apples and Oranges in comparison. Both deserving of respect from true modification engineers.
I think your statement makes a good point, and I also think it illustrates the importance of torque and how it develops the power band.
Bench racing has shown us the Mustang V6 is nearly identical to the Civic Si in terms of stock acceleration. While the V6 stang does, in fact, make 13 more peak horsepower than the Si, it also weighs 472 pounds more than the Si! FWIW I've read the V6 weighs in at 3352 lbs, and the Si coupe weighs 2880 lbs.
In the broadest of terms, the extra weight of the V6 stang is made up by the broader power band that the extra 99 ft-lbs of torque develops. This match in acceleration is also despite the fact the Si also comes with a very steep 4.77:1 final drive ratio from the factory over the V6s 3.31:1.
Other factors like the RWD vs FWD certainly come into play, but I think this is also a good example of why torque rules. Like you said, if the V6s gets that jump off the line, the Si probably would never be able to make up the difference.
For about the same dollar cost difference between the base model V-6 and the base model Si, we can do this to the V-6 platform
Unless I am not reading your post right I have to disagree. The national base price of the Mustang V6 is $19,250 MSRP and the Civic Si is $21,090 MSRP.
That is only an $1840 difference. That will get you some bolt-ons and/or maybe a basic nitrous set up. Admittedly, a well-spent $1840 will allow the V6 to destroy the Si which is your overall point, but $1840 isn't close to what Rygen spent to get those numbers you posted. Except maybe the 278 RWHP / 362 RWTQ figures. Though to get the 13.6@99 I believe he also did a lot of supporting modes like gear swaps, differential work, suspention work, and that adds up quick if you aren't doing your own installation.
Rygen's suggested packages from his thread were well over $1840:
• 13 second Nitrous Rig on streets: $3680.00
• 13 second Turbo Rig on streets: $7680.00
• 13 second SC Rig on streets: $6680.00