As stated above, and as a general rule, the bigger the displacement, the more benefit you're likely to realize from each basic modification (n/a engines).

As far as that specific race, I agree, something must be up. Thats a lot of time and money to invest for that almost stock time.

I like the 'tibs. I really think Hyundai is coming a long way with their cars. However, in the interest of buisness practices, its NOT practical for them to try to tune the car themselves any more..

Cheap/fast/reliable pick two.

Hyundai picks cheap (tibs not extremely expensive) and reliable (7year, 100,000 mile EVERYTHING warranty). In doing so, they have to de-tune the V6 a bit. I'm sure with a few, 'adjustments' here and there, you can open up a good bit of speed. The fact that it has more TQ than HP tells me that right off, even without playing around with the car.

Anyway... good run for the 'tib, and I hope your GSR friend gets his ducks in a line. He should be way ahead with all that crap done.