[midenginebias]

On basics the cars you mentioned are the same basic formula for a RWD but there is a market gap between them based on what the starting price is. That is where most of us are drawing the lines. Another big factor would also be fuel economy.

I disagree on market gap on the basis that, the cars are comparable and cover a variety of price points between 25k to 35k anyway. How much is that power hardtop Miata? Starting MSRP just over 27k. That would break into 30s with options. Right at a base 370z coupe. You say fuel economy, and yet the EPA highway mileage ratings for a Mustang v6, Camaro v6, and a Miata are all right at 30mpg.

If it's so much weight based on value, the Mustang v6 can be had starting at just over $22k. 300+hp 19/31mpg 6spd. The Genesis Coupe is already a 2+2 with over 200hp and 20/30mpg so, why wait for the FT?

The only car out of the price range is just the 370z. Used S2ks depending on mileage are all 25k-35k. Mustangs, Camaros, Genesis Coupes, RX8s, and Miatas? All between 22k-35k depending on trim and options.

To be honest if I decided today to purchase a brand new RX-8 or 370Z tomorrow I wouldn't. Why? Because I could purchase either a brand new EVO or STI that costs the same and I'd rather have those for certain reasons.

Then technically, you're not truly in the market for an FT86. If you want over 200hp and decent gas mileage, what is stopping you from a WRX or a Rallyart Lancer? 25k. Over 200hp. 20+mpg. 4 seats.

The V6 pony cars are much closer in their starting price and while they can be compared they aren't the closest competitor to the FT86 design.

It's not about "closest competitor," but rather is it comparable to the FT86? Absolutely. At the core, they are sports cars with difference performance values. Want HP and cruising in a convertible? Get the Mustang. Want the handling and looks? Get the FT. Simple.

I personally am looking for a fun RWD car that costs below 27K starting, weighs under 2700lb. and can get over 20mpg city (my car rarely needs to use the highway so the combined and hwy mpg are of no relevance to me). The only car in my eyes that comes close is the Mazda Miata, but to each his own.

And just think, the Miata hits the price points that the FT86 is projected at anyway.

I don't consider the FR-S to be a great "value" vehicle. The competition has great or greater attributes at the same price point of 25k. However, because I personally value lightness over horsepower, or a boxer over a big v6, then to me, the FR-S is a greater value than any S2k, Mustang, Camaro, etc., at the same price point. But, people who are looking for handling, horsepower, and big numbers should be looking elsewhere.

It's almost like the GTR vs. LF-A comparison. Ignore the price point. The GT-R puts up all the great numbers, but there are attributes the LF-A has that the GT-R can't match. Same goes for a WRX and FR-S.