That statement, RIGHT THERE! We still see people building up the Grand National. I know the 3.8 in that is NOT the same as our current 3800's. But the point is the Grand National modding is successful because people have LOTS of RWD options on a popular platform. Everyone knows that the FWD 3800 is doomed by the transmission. Yet, these cars STILL exist, STILL have an enthusiast base (both for stock and modded applications). But these days, the horrible reputation the 4t65e has makes it the #1 reason people avoid modding these cars. Tired of the headaches.
I really don't know what the overall demand is, but ultimately, someone either needs:
- a good swap kit/parts for a built 4t65e again
- some new transmission options, that would be a bolt up kit.

So far, closest person I see that *might* be on that road of an entire different trans kit is Brandon Furches (but he has been focused on mating it with the LS4, not so much a 3800). Granted, he has indicated changes are coming for all W-Body enthusiasts.