[SOneThreeCoupe]

The difference is, as I understand, in the programming of the assist as well as in the placement of the motor assembly.

JTEKT, the (likely) manufacturer of the EPS systems in the ZN6/ZC6, says the best steering feel is available through rack direct-drive EPS systems; the ZN/ZC chassis uses a column-mount, as do the majority of cars lacking steering feel. From what I've been able to glean by internet sleuthing, there may be room for a rack EPS, but my guess is that cost was likely higher; the close proximity to the sway bar and block/bellhousing, as well as the rear of the cylinder head interface probably would've led to packaging issues. Whether or not it is possible is not within the realm of my grasp.

The more powerful, modern EPS units also have the ability to filter out vibration by providing an inverse assist. I wonder if that's the case here.

I need to spend a little more time reading the shock dynos.

The problem with the ZN/ZC is that younger people (like me) have no idea that there can be a positive ride/handling compromise, and I think that's due to the idea that lap times, g-forces and slalom speeds have made bench-racers out of the majority of us. The problem is that the vast majority of seriously fast, seriously grippy cars are inferior on the street; they're too harsh-riding, and with limits so high that to access them one must be going so fast that a crash would be catastrophic.