...definite step in the right direction. Consider my cynicism banished.
Since they'd lose a lot of weight removing the AWD, any power decrease should be offset. Not to mention that you'd re-do the engine calibration anyway due to the powertrain changes. I'm glad that it appears this car is made to a meet more complex criteria than merely boasting bigger numbers. Not that I have the skill to explore any of the nuances of those handling/engine characteristics. Nor the wallet to risk smacking one into armco...ahem.
Peak horsepower nuumbers are, to me, bragging rights that do not necessarily reflect the driving experience. Without getting into BMEP etc etc, engine performance shouldn't be confined to a single number. [Anyway, I am a two-stroke fan at heart.]
Now as for that horsey house and not the Stutt-y one, I don't think I'd be able to post....politely that is.