Date: Tue, 18 May 2004 09:01:43 +0100 From: Charles Christacopoulos <c.k.christacopoulos_removeme_nospamee.ac.uk> Subject: Re: ... The Lexus of Subaru's" ... ?!?
Hans Lellelid wrote: > Kristian Steve Jensen wrote: > >> >> >>> So, I'm saying that while I realize that it >>> serves a function, I think the car could have been designed in a way >>> that didn't necessistate that hole in the hood. I mean -- look at the >>> Volvo S60R putting out 300hp with a high-pressure turbo ... no scoop. >>> The S4 twin turbo ... no scoop. I don't think it's required :) >> >> >> >> Since the Saab is built on the Impreza, the production line will also be >> based on the Impreza. Front mounted intercoolers are available from the >> aftermarket, but redesigning the production lines for this, when a >> top-mounted intercooler does the job just as well with the car in stock >> configuration, is just plain bad business. Also, with the Aero based >> on the >> Impreza, Saab is aiming for a market segment which is easily seduced by >> scoops, wings, and so on. Those who don't want a scoop can buy a FMIC kit >> and fit a Linear hood. >> > > Thanks for pointing out the implications of the horizontally opposed > engine. I knew in the back of my mind that the Subaru had a > horizontally opposed engine, but wasn't able to follow through with any > conclusions on layout restrictions. It makes sense that since the 9-2X > is a Subaru & GM is quite intent on not putting any effort into making > it substantially different, that they wouldn't have changed engine bay > layout to accommodate the lower-profile (no scoop!) appearance that > probably would have appealed more to current Saab owners. > > I had assumed that the target audience that you mention was the main > factor for putting the scoop at the top. I find it hard to imagine that > the 9-2X will really get that audience ... won't those kids buy the > cheaper WRX sedan (or any of the numerous competitors)? I just don't > see the refined interior being a big selling point. Seems like Saab > already had a car that targeted that audience in the 9-3 Viggen hatchback. > > Hans The error or your thinking :-) is not on the flat 4 engine. It is on GM wanting to appeal to current owners. With SAAB having a limited production GM will know what appears to current owners. Their problem is how to appeal to all the other car owners who don't buy a SAAB. Already, there is no hatch back car in the range (because Merc, BMW and Audi don't make one). There is a 1.8 *normally aspirated* engine, whereas all the 9-3s and 9-5s came as turbos. Appeal to SAAB owners is the least important issue in GM's thinking. I would have thought anyone who want the air scoop would also want the original car with its original exhaust sound :-) Regards Charles -- Please remove _removeme_ to reply. Work: http://www.somis.dundee.ac.uk/ Hobby: http://www.egothor.org/
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