Yes it is, because car manufacteurers nowadays aim for mileage.
And why can't a corolla beat a V8? - because the power difference is quite something, doesnt take much of a driver with a v8 to beat a corolla.
Probably not, you spend too much time on your computer chair and no time at the track? - Yeah I guess thats it.
Heres a pic of me racing on Alastaro Race track
Plus the fact that I ACTUALLY DO BUILD race cars for rally/track,with quite good success too. So I figure that I do actually know what I'm talking about.