Guess you guys missed the point of spec class. Same chassis, same motor, same tires.

I'm sure I could spend $500-$600 on a sedan, but what if I just wanted something simple that would produce some close racing?

To say I am trying to dilute the onroad scene is ridiculous. You take someone new to the hobby and give them a choice of spending money on a vta or sedan compared to one of the legend cars, my bet is that they will go with the spec series.
Plus they know no one has the upper hand with motor or tires. Think of it as a gateway into sedan or vta. Get them in the door with something they feel that they can win with and they'll be hooked on the faster cars in no time.