not to get picky, but understand that takumis corolla had some upgrades on it that were never spoken of. he had non-stock wheels, and a lowered stance. chances are it had at least suspension done.

also, as far as him beating the skyline, that is very possible in a downhill racing scenario. the key at that point isnt as much power and more maintaing momentum and cornering faster. a lighter car with the proper setup can be extremely fast in the hands of an experienced driver.

which is what i think the point of the show is...you dont have to have something extremely powerful or lots of $$$ to compete...skill compensates for a lot of that. hachi bill could chase down most people on this board on a curvy back road regardless of what they're driving.