i think you will be able to take him pretty easy, I have raced a few 1999-2001 and beat them all by atleast a car length. Most of them don't race, they just get the car because it is pretty, but you can handle him, don't worry. And shift around 7300-7400 or hit rev limiter, the true redline. You won't be hurting the car.Peace and tell us what happens.