OT: Sort of, Dumbing down cars Options

[Howard]

//Rant

I’m sure there are a lot of reasons car companies do this, but I still wonder why.

As an example, Mazda introduces their RX-8. Interesting car, but high manufacturing costs and not a sales success. Then they spend a ton developing the ‘new’ Miata. Why not offer their 220 bhp six in the Miata, add a coupe version, save on costs and kick some ass? GM has lots of great engines, but put a weak one in the Solstice/Skye. Why not 250hp in that? Afraid of cutting into Corvette’s share?

But Porsche takes the cake. This month’s R/T cover article, ‘Best Porsche Ever’, features the Cayman. And there’s a nice discussion about the 914/6 as the 911 beater. But the NARP syndrome that killed the 914 and feminized the Boxster is still apparent. The styling and engine choice of the Cayman is good, but not great.

They don’t want to beat the 911 mystique and brand loyalty, but I bet someone at the company will get the modern equivalent of the 914-8 for their birthday. Using their existing parts bins, each of these companies could make better cars for less money and still get a higher profit per vehicle. WTF?