Date: Thu, 17 Apr 2003 04:53:47 GMT From: Rob Levandowski <roblnopsamhiz.com> Subject: Re: A Macintosh Computers and A Saab?
In article <BABD6585.330BC%NO_SPAMnopsamCOM>, B&D <NO_SPAMnopsamCOM> wrote: > How many people out there own Mac computers AND own a Saab? > > I am curious. A sales person told me that in many ways Saab was the > "Macintosh Computer" of the car world. Wanted to find out if there was any > truth to the statement. Well, due to the economy I'm temporarily between Saabs, but I had a '99 9-5 SE V6, and I intend to get another 9-5 as soon as practical. One of the first things installed in said Saab was the good old six-color Apple window applique. How are Saabs and Macs similar? * Both are "nonstandard," but usually in well thought out ways. Examples: ignition key on the transmission hump, monitor connector that carries power and USB. * Both include cutting-edge engineering features not found on most of their competitors... at least, not until they're copied. Examples: heated seats, 802.11b wireless networking. * Both have a price premium, although when compared with equivalent competitors (BMW/Audi/Mercedes/Lexus/etc. for Saab, decked-out business-class systems from name brands like IBM, HP, Dell, etc. for Apple) they're a good value for the money. * Compared with the alternatives, both are more comfortable to use. Saabs have great ergonomics and handle beautifully. Macs still set the standard for ease-of-use, and can take tasks which trip up the most advanced Windows system (i.e., editing a movie and burning it to DVD) and make it absurdly simple and reliable. * Both appeal to people who are willing to be a bit different, even if it means putting up with jeers from the conformists out there who want to be part of the pack. * Most of all, both show attention to details. It's the subtle things that make the difference. The Saab's radio display has a light sensor that ensures the display is legible, regardless of outside lighting and the position of the headlamp switch. The latest Mac laptops have a light sensor that automatically backlights the keyboard when needed so you can see what you're typing. Many of these touches are not noticed consciously, but add up to a feeling of sophistication... especially when you use a lesser product and see the rough edges and awkward routines. Until recently, Apple used the slogan "Think Different." Surely, you can't get much more "different" in a mass-produced automobile than a Saab! -- Rob Levandowski roblnopsamhiz.com (Opinions expressed are solely my own and not a statement from my employer)
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