[strat61caster]

That Boss 302 is a big step up from any Mustang GT of that generation, they aimed at taking on the M3 of that year (I believe that was the outgoing V8 M3) and as far as the numbers tell succeeded.

The way Ford tells it their goal with the current generation is to have a 2015 GT match or exceed the performance of the Boss 302 from '12-'13, which is entirely possible and downright easy with some very sticky tires.

[ame="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BxEhnugwzCc"]M3 Killer! Ford Mustang Boss 302 Laps Laguna Seca - YouTube[/ame]


But as evidenced in the video with the E85 BRZ the driver can make all the difference. For reference, pro driver with a stock 86 is in the 1:51 range around Laguna Seca, a Spec Miata which involves nearly stock power but with racing slicks, weight reduction and other goodies can do 1:45.

Buy the car you like driving better, as that will be the better vehicle. If you're going stoplight racing you'll probably be frustrated with the Toyobaru, if you go AutoX-ing you'll probably be frustrated with the Mustang. These cars are designed to be better at one than the other it's a fact and no amount of money will completely eliminate the imbalance.

That thing about judging a fish by it's ability to climb a tree or whatever.

I've been for a ridealong in a Boss 302, would never consider exchanging my FR-S for it, I (personally) simply cannot deal with the size and weight of the thing. Sidenote: that kind of speed means that every little bit from the tires to the bolts holding the suspension need that extra mile to handle the loads, the dollars add up quick. Quality DD-friendly sticky tires can be had for the 86 mounted up on stock wheels for <$600, same/similar compound on the Boss 302 is going to be $1,000+.