Mechanical Engineer vs. Automotive Engineer?

[Kenson]

I wish to do high performance oriented vehical analysis of both gas and diesel engines (srt division, banks, bully-dog, just a couple companies that come to mind). I think i would also enjoy helping design production methods, etc. If i cannot find a job in this, I have experience in machining and i would do engine balancing, headwork, etc.
I was looking at ferris state or western mich. for my bachelors in Automotive Engineering, after doing the first two years of auto tech at a community college. After looking at job listings though, most posted requirement of mechanical degree and do not mention automotive, is it that automotive is just a givin, or is "automotive engineering" not really sufficient enough of a curriculum? Also which school? Thanks all, Kenson
Also, would the mechanical be much more stuff to learn or be considerably harder to obtain? I ask because i realize that a lot more opportunities would be available, as far as contract work, to me. If not, would a mechanical degree still teach enough automotive specific?