[khansmith]

I don't have an issue with the higher standards for new cars under the current plan that was proposed by Obama. I think there is a lot of horsepower lurking in modern engines utilizing a myriad of techniques in tuning, engineering, etc. What I do have an issue with is a blanket policy that is applied to all automotive uses. Hobbyists like us are not creating a significant environmental impact and should be exempt. I don't even have an issue if they put a reasonable limit of milage per year a hobby car can be used in return for use of a more inefficient engine in the vehicle.
As for the EPA trying trump an effort to harmonize standards across the states; well, that just makes it even harder for the automakers to compete.