I agree, a turbod SVT should be able to be into the 12s....it just doesn't seem to be happening...? A N/A contour on the other hand is a different story. apart from traction, there just doesn't seem to be enough power.
like you said with the viper example, traction is an important issue. that;s why a lot of the muscle car guys tub and shorten the rear ends, reduce the pressure in the tires etc...which also makes for nice wheelies .