Simulations aren't perfect representations of the real world no and there will be some engineer aspects on a project like this which won't be public knowledge - but the are many areas that are well understood and well modelled when it comes to gears, transmission, tyres, etc. and when things aren't even in the right ballpark it raises some questions.
Be interesting to see if they set out to actually do a proven run to set the record straight or whether they are hoping it will all go away and people will forget about it with time.
