Well, I can name one rival to the Erin Scarlet, at least to some degree. They’re not 100% in the same class, but First meets Last in a duel of engines. Erin’s debut of the 3.8L V8 against Storm’s finale for the old Cast Iron 6L V8.
(Yes, I did open the game to get the modern stats, so compared to the ‘old’ MK2 Envy, there will be some discrepancies based on the fact that some balancing has happened between then and now.)
Sure, the 10.5 US MPG is appalling in comparison, but… the Envy MK2 boasts 532 horsepower from a twin-turbocharged 6 liter V8, all cast iron. It was the car that showed us that we had to innovate or die, because technology was marching forward, and our engine was an anchor to the past.
It appears, other than a few odd stats, that the Envy splits the trim-lines. It’s less drivable overall, but that’s 6L of turbo-V8 talking. Flipside is that it’s sporty, surprisingly comfortable, can do 193 mph despite her all-steel construction (Corrosion Resistant both in chassis and panels), and while it sold for $31,050 @50%, it appeared a year earlier (1990). Also, the Envy only came in SymTrak AWD. Unfortunately, the weight combined with the Envy’s power makes for a thirsty car.
Rival? Maybe, but more likely a slightly different class rival than expected.