Quote:
Originally Posted by MatadorRacing_F1
Granted, but it also had just exactly 200hp. 
If the FT weighs about the same and has similar hp, what is the problem? |
No problem at all.
Let's all have in mind that lightweight can be relative. Power to weight ratio is critical to straight line performance. Absolute weight figure plays an important role to handling and response to driver inputs.
Talking in European terms, 1200 kgs is a threshold for a sports car to be considered lightweight although this may sound (and actually be) a generalization...
The new Lotus Evora weighs around 1350 kgs and has a 280 hp N/A 3.5 V6. It is considered quite lardy. The fact that Lotus has been producing very light sports cars could play a role into this but doesn't change people's perception.
In USA, with all the Mustangs and Camaros and Challengers, 1300 kgs may sound ok but here in Europe, this figure brings to mind sluggish, underpowered family hatches...
Toyota is a global brand and all markets must be under consideration. What may make US happy, may not make happy European customers...