[RallySnake]

This is a very interesting theorical question. I believe that either car could be built to very competitive levels based on how much money was available. If the tires are the same, the deciding factor would be the smoothness of the racing surface. If the track is very smooth, I believe that the live rear axle is a better choice because it keeps the tires almost exactly perpendicular to the track for maximum traction. If the surface is irregular, the higher unsprung weight of the rear axle assembly will cause the tires to lose contact to the track more often and the advantage would go to the independent rear end.

Paul