I used to think so too. Then I took my 01 Cobra to the track for a lapping day. The classic race Mustang club was using the lapping day for testing. The Cobra tore up period correct GT 350’s by such a wide margin it surprised me.
The track manager warned us about modern street cars blowing past the vintage racers, I did not believe it.
Your 06 GT would blow Parnelli and company right off the track. The tires and brakes are the biggest difference, but 320 HP SAE net is lots more than the 308 SAE gross used in 1965.
SAE gross HP had the dyno supply coolant and electricity. A water pump and steel fan suck up a lot of ponies.
SAE net is as installed in the car. Mufflers, cat converters, A/C compressor clutch power steering pump etc.
No doubt. The suspensions and tires are so far superior today.
First time I've heard the explanation as to what the difference was, thanks. Never really looked but have been wondering for decades.
Regarding fast vehicles, all I have is a dirt bike that goes 0-60 in under 3 secs (in perfect conditions and pro skills which I don't have). But even if it takes me 3.5 it's plenty exciting and I don't want to go more than 60 anyway.