For that kind of money buy a Three. There are 22 Prius listed on Truecar within 25 miles. Can you "beat" a Prius? Yes. It was an education to see how far an experienced autocross driver can push the car. Most likely those renting a Prius aren't driving it like they stole it.
My exact thoughts. The demographic renting a prius don't seem to be the "drive it like you stole it" type.