Many of these same points came up in conversation 6 years ago when GM released an "outrageously more expensive" Camaro than the Mustang...
one word, folks:
Appeal.
Camaro outsold the Mustang for years despite not having a "competitive price" or stupid-high rebates like the Ford did. The bottom line is, the Camaro is a better car. People will pay for that. They did...they are...and I think they will continue to do so.
In case it hasn't yet been said....
The new 1SS starts are $37295. It comes with standard RS package features, and is faster than the outgoing 1LE.
A 2015 1SS starts at $34500...add $1350 for the included RS stuff...and for kicks, consider than the 1LE package was $3500.
A faster, better equipped 2016 1SS @ $37295.00.....vs.....2015 1SS/RS + 1LE @ 39350.00.
IMO, that's not a bad deal at all. But I think we need to square with a new reality here...the days of getting four wheels and a V8 are dead. CAFE standards don't allow for manufacturer's to sell V8s willy nilly...so if you want one, you have to pay. I don't like it, but given the circumstances, I'm glad Chevy's at least giving us something for the money.
Sign me up for a 2SS with dual mode exhaust and mag ride!!
