[gomarlins3]

First of all I need to say that I am not expert and these are only my interpretations, not necessarily fact.

The red line change was needed with the change in engine size (2.0 -> 2.2). I believe that is how they increased the torque- more displacement and less RPM's. The difference in the tranny was to compensate for the different engine output and characteristics I would guess.

As for the suspension, many people thought the rear end was a little 'jumpy' and would come around on people so by softening the suspension, oversteer was more manageable. I have never had a problem myself other than at the autoX course or when I changed to a larger rear sway bar. That was an expensive learning experience.