The GS was a "Skunk works" operation done by the dealers without the approval or input from GM. I read they were starting to do really well until GM management found out and got all upset about this "unofficial" racing division. They threatened to fire every one involved so the project was shut down.
Given it's dealer team origins it was probably more closely based on the production car than you guys make out
Imagine if GM proper had got on board with the GS project and started developing the GS. I read at it's 1963 Nassau debut it was 11 seconds a lap faster than the 289 Cobras.
The production Corvette at that time had better suspension than the Cobra. It was equiped with an unequal length douple wishbone setup and had much lower roll centers. This makes for a much flatter handling car and it didn't lean like the Cobra. It was let down by it's drum brakes and heavier weight meaning the Cobra got into and out of the corners faster.
I guess this is a "what if?" thread so what If Duntov was working on the GS directly? Add some decent brakes, a thiner lightweight fiberglass body and the L88 motor in a "S/C" version and we might all be posting on "Club Corvette" right now.
I agree Jamo that ferrari is the nicest looking of the bunch.
Cheers