I must of missed the part where he said his budget was in the 1000's.

Personally, I'd like to see somebody get a NA car into the 13's, (without using juice) and I think it can be done without spending 1000's. Unfortunately, we don't have the option of a simple ring & pinion swap.
I really think all it would take is some wide 24" diameter rear tires (to compensate for the lack of a better gear) a good tune, a CAI, (maybe larger injectors) and lots of practice should do it.
Maybe XF725 is like me, and doesn't feel the need to run 12's or even in the 11's to enjoy his drag racing experience.
I spent big dollars just to have a 11 sec. car, and found out I enjoy my "Oh so slow" Crossfire even more.
No argument, for maximum 1/4 mile performance for the least amount of money spent, the SRT is the way to go. But not everybody needs that much of an adrenalin rush to have fun.