For Lotus, see also Aston Martin and Maserati. But no longer Bentley, Porsche or Rolls-Royce. They’re all grand old brands; some are now grand new brands.
What’s the difference? Somewhere along the line with the grand new brands, an owner realised what they had and invested in it not just once but time and again. And eventually – with perennial, not just one-off profit – the rewards have come.
With others, the owners (probably) realised what they had but the funds, patience or work rate gave out before the potential was fulfilled.
Typically that would come after creating a standout model – one brilliantly received and that would have supported an expansion of the range if only the longer commitment had been there. See the Lotus Elise, Aston V8 Aston Martin Vantage, Aston DB9 and Maserati Granturismo.
The difference in luxury or sports car firm hierarchies is almost like the difference in sportspeople. Some will win a title, be congratulated and, acknowledging the toll it has taken on them and their loved ones, sit back with the satisfaction of that trophy perennially on their shelf. Others will win and think: “Brilliant. Now, where does the next one come from?”
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Drifting along.
Every time I see a Maserati I'm admiring it for how timeless and the dated look, not because it's a brand new design , it's almost as I'm looking at it as a classic from the 70's 80's, it just looks old.
Alfa deja vu
Ah yes, the Fiat-Chrysler product planners - optimists I think it's fair to say.
I remember when I bought my Alfa 159 second hand from a dealer, he was telling me about existing customers asking if they could have another. He'd have to tell them they didn't make them anymore. Please could I have the replacement instead then? There isn't one, he'd have to tell them (pre Giulia) knowing that he'd just lost yet another customer to a rival manufacturer.
You'd have thought ensuring there was a replacement for a vehicle was basic product planning. Not one of FCA's greatest moments.
I 100% agree, Matt.
I 100% agree, Matt.
Something horribly clinical and cold always accompanies the polishing.
The ultimate problem is that the perfect car asks nothing at all of its driver. The only challenge for a driver is to anticipate, disguise and overcome a cars deficiencies. When there are none, we are basically just along for the ride.
'Drift Mode' is probably the most revolting idea anyone has ever come up with. It's like saying 'Can you make love to this beautiful girl for me, to save me the challenge of satifying her'.
Drift Mode...
...coming to a Golf R
the whole "drift mode" thing is laughable, imho