Well, actually, heavily modded, or for that matter stock Type-R integras don't mix well with people who can't drive, which unfortunately has become the norm in these sort of challenges.
These challengers have not been chossen on their driving prowess or racing success, but on how much money they have put into their cars. These competitions are no longer a test of the car, but more so of the driver.
In the defense of the MR2 you said scored higher, it is mid engine, giving it a good balance advantage....
Later,
Aj