Full Breakdown
Vaughn Gittin Jr. Accuses Car and Driver of AI Usage After RTR Spec 3 Review
4/9/2026, 1:22:19 PM
Overview of the Controversy
Vaughn Gittin Jr., the founder of RTR Vehicles, has sparked controversy by suggesting that Car and Driver may have used artificial intelligence to write a review of his Mustang RTR Spec 3, following a slightly negative assessment of the vehicle's performance. This allegation arose after the publication highlighted that the RTR Spec 3's performance figures did not meet expectations compared to a stock Ford Mustang GT.
Performance Review Highlights
Car and Driver's review indicated that the RTR Spec 3, priced at $109,808, was slower than the stock manual GT in various performance metrics. The RTR took 4.7 seconds to reach 60 mph, compared to the GT's 4.2 seconds, and required 163 feet to stop from 70 mph, while the GT needed only 153 feet. Additionally, the RTR's quarter-mile time of 12.7 seconds was marginally slower than the GT's 12.5 seconds. These findings raised questions about the value of the RTR Spec 3, especially given its significantly higher price point.
Gittin Jr.'s Response
In response to the review, Gittin Jr. expressed disappointment that the writer focused primarily on numerical performance rather than the overall driving experience. He stated, “It makes me wonder if AI is doing the writing after data is output,” implying that the review lacked a human touch. This comment has been criticized as unfounded and damaging to the credibility of the journalist involved, Elana Scherr, who has been defended by her peers as a skilled writer.
Official Statements & Responses
Car and Driver's parent company, Hearst, responded to Gittin Jr.'s claims by affirming that Scherr wrote the article independently, emphasizing her capabilities as a journalist. The outlet's editorial standards were also defended, with assertions that the review met the expectations of fair and thorough automotive journalism.
Criticism of Gittin Jr.'s Allegations
Critics have pointed out that Gittin Jr.'s accusations detract from legitimate feedback regarding the RTR Spec 3. The review's focus on performance metrics is consistent with Car and Driver's established approach to automotive evaluations. Commentators noted that questioning the integrity of a journalist without evidence undermines the broader discourse on automotive performance and consumer expectations.
What's Next?
The automotive community is closely monitoring the situation, as Gittin Jr.'s comments may impact future collaborations between RTR Vehicles and automotive publications. The incident raises broader questions about the relationship between car manufacturers and automotive journalists, particularly regarding the expectations of performance reviews.
Verbatim Quotes
- “It makes me wonder if AI is doing the writing after data is output.” — Vaughn Gittin Jr., Founder of RTR Vehicles
- “Objectively, nothing here falls below editorial standards for any outlet in North America.” — Automotive Journalist
This controversy highlights the delicate balance between automotive manufacturers and media outlets, emphasizing the importance of constructive criticism in the automotive industry.
