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, Sat, 8 Feb 2003 11:48:24
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Well, this board for one thing.
I realize, and have stated in prior posts, that business decisions will change the traditional characteristics of SAAB as it tries to adjust to becoming a higher volume line. But I see, with sadness, a trend towards making the brand a commodity item. I had high hopes on the new 9-3, even without the hatchback, but I had to admit that when I vistited a dealer and peeked in the window, the black plastic dash and the quality of the leather didn't impress me. If the higher priced trim levels correct that, well, I have not seen them yet. VW and Audi use the same material, plastic, and their dashes seem to have a higher quality finish, fit and feel. Their seats look better. Look what happened to Nissan when they decontented and cost cut the Altima, nice design, but you wouldn't want to spend time there.
As a financial manager, I understand the need for cost efficiencies. Its ok to share platforms and parts that will not be obvious in daily use, but the new designs seem to be at the expense of the character that the brand was noted for: unique shapes and features (love them or not),solid, above average quality materials, long running and practical. They could at least design a unique shape, give some horsepower that places it above its peers, and give it an interior that will still look better than a new car a few years from now. Then I will not care if it has a Chevy floorpan, alternator or starter or that the key is in the dash.
Some of this has to do with they way consumers treat cars, rent it for three years and then give it back. No one seems to buy and hold anymore. If the market craves a trendy, disposble commodity, then manufacturers will design/build for that market, and adjust as it changes. I'll be going to a dealer later with a friend who wants to replace her Acura with a 9-3; my biases will stay in my pocket. If she likes the car I'm not going to talk her out of it based on my warped views. I'd like the company to get the sale and I'd like her to be happy with it.
But as my C900 ages, the pinion gear whine getting ever louder, I'm faced with getting a newer car this spring to go along with my 9000CS. And I'm wistful that the available SAABs are not as interesting as they used to be. Sorry, Scott; should I just drink the Kool Aid and find a place to sit? Thanks for listening and the opportunity to share it with others.
92 900S 5sp 186,500 miles
97 9000 5sp 67,000 miles
posted by 208.212.2...
, Sat, 8 Feb 2003 11:48:24, Sun, 9 Feb 2003 14:54:29
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