Originally Posted by GunslingerG34

In reality, 07>03 by a very small margin and driver skill easily overcomes the difference 90% of the time. In STOCK form, while the difference seems large on paper it doesn't quite work out that way in the real world. There is a SLIGHT increase in top-end power with the HR, but I've watched plenty of stock DE cars smoke HR cars. Unless you are talking a 50+ HP difference (which is WAY more than the 13 HP we are talking about here) the deciding factor will almost always be the driver's skills and reaction times. Plus to me, the DE seems to have a bit more low-end torque, where the HR seems to have a bit more to it in the upper rpm range. Now once you start making mods under the hood or in the driveline, then all bets are off because one is no better than the other if equal mods are done correctly.

$3,000+ is a lot to pay for 13 extra HP that only kicks in at very high revs that you will not usually run on the street. I've also noticed that in my area there isn't anywhere near that big of difference in price between the 2 variations. What DOES affect the price is the mileage and trim package (touring, track, enthusiast) and whether or not it is a ZR (which brings a premium price). An 03 + $3,000 for an 07? You could easily do that, but why would you want to unless the 07 is in much better condition???