Let's be clear, when the Rx-8 was introduced, Mazda claimed it had 247hp. Just before delivery, the ECU was remapped to meet new emissions regs. There was significant controversy over the actual power output and Mazda revised the rating to 238. It seems the vast majority of complaints died off at that point. In 2005 the SAE updated their requirements on how hp is certified (and now includes independent observation). Using the new standard, the published number was reduced to 232 for 2006 and later models (with no changes to the engine). I think any claim that the stock power is less than 232 is ludicrous. Every other ITR car was classed based on stock numbers, there is no reason to deviate from that now.
I've pointed this out before, but I'd like to reiterate that while the dyno data submitted did show low output, it also showed 14% gain with only intake and exhaust work. It is clear this car should see significant further gains from ECU mods since all the emissions work can be undone.
Here are a few numbers from the process (assume net zero adders - all attributes positive except torque, made up for by best in class transmission):
238hp with 25% gain -> 3350 lbs (this is the standard process)
238hp with 20% gain -> 3210 lbs
238hp with 15% gain -> 3080 lbs (this is the lowest gain multiplier used on any car)
Now to be extremely generous, use the 2006 rating at 232:
232hp with 20% gain - > 3130 lbs
While I agree that on track data should not be used for classification purposes, it is worth noting that an ITR Rx-8 should weigh around 3050 lbs after direct comparison with other ITR eligible cars also running in either T3 or Grand Am.
The Rx-8 proponents claim the car should weigh somewhere between 2700 and 2800 lbs.
Tell me, who is unreasonable here?