Why are GM/CT SC so expensive?

[JoeSchmoe]

I realize that this is probably a beat to death topic and the forums nazi will be on my butt any minute now... but that other threads about the BBSC has got me thinking again.


Why are the CTSC and GMSC kits still so damned expensive even after all these years? I recall earlier threads tossing around ideas like recouping R&D costs or using a better compressor or fuel management system, etc...

But how much should these kits really cost (parts-wise)? Kits for a lot of other cars range from $3-$6K, but $10K seems outrageous for carbon copies of something developed years ago. The NSX has been selling for 11 years so I would expect the SC R&D and tooling costs to have been recovered long ago.

Also, what is the likelihood that CT or GM will lower their prices now that there are new contendors on the market with significantly lower prices? Right now, I find the $10K CTSC price to be outrageous, but I would give it a lot of consideration at $7K. What are the chances they will knock a few grand off now that this is old product?

 

[ScienceofSpeed]

That's a good question. In the development of the CTSC and GMSC; both companies had goals and tasks that required significant amount of research, development, and cash to work around.

The CTSC for example had the goal to fit the Whipple blower under the engine cover. This required considerable research and development at the slight expense of performance to accomplish, as the intake manifold is completely replaced.

The GMSC as another example uses the Eaton blower, which has a configuration which makes adapting to the NSX slightly difficult as well.

The supercharger cores themselves do not cost much less or more between the three systems. However, through personal experience developing customer parts for the NSX, I can say that difference in costs over volume for custom machined parts is enormous, especially when considering the high tolerances used by these three products.

Will the GMSC or CTSC prices fall with this new competition? Not likely; I don't think the small market motivates either company to do so. Remember, the price difference is only about $2000 (about $6000 for BBSC, about $8000-9000 for CTSC/GMSC through ScienceofSpeed).

Own one, and you'll understand. You will know a supercharged NSX owner by the "Supercharger Smile".

Edit: corrected price.

Regards,
-- Chris

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[email protected] http://www.ScienceofSpeed.com

[This message has been edited by ScienceofSpeed (edited 15 June 2002).]

 

[nsxxtreme]

Looks more like $7000 and $9000 to me.

 

[O-Ace]

Chris, is that $8k installed?

 

[gobble]

Is SOS still selling the BBSC for $5600. If so, I may want one.

 

[ScienceofSpeed]

CTSC and GMSC are required to be listed at list price, we offer discounts on both, bringing the prices to the quotes figure above. Inquire if you are interested.

Update: latest pricing announced. The kit is now available for $6500.00. We'll soon be shipping to remote customers in about a month. Please make sure to pre-register if you are interested to put yourself in line.

Regards,
-- Chris

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[email protected] http://www.ScienceofSpeed.com

[This message has been edited by ScienceofSpeed (edited 12 June 2002).]