Mike,
it is interesting, that you pick out the “Neue Klasse” as your example, as it indeed
was built by a cash strapped company and in those early cars it shows.
But I have another comparison. Two sports cars, both built buy companies which
could afford to back any decision they took. One being built with cost being almost
no objective and one being built to a tight budget to be affordable to the mass market:
There was a time, when “less is more” really meant something. When modesty was seen as decent
and not as a sign of poverty.
I do accept that those times are long gone, but nevertheless I am very strong in my views:
The italians working for Audi elevated the brand to new hights by adhering to the same design
principles as Apple and Braun. But the cosmopolitans who did those flashy surfaces under Bangle
and still do under Wagener do not only lack understanding for the BMW and Mercedes brands
their traditions and values, they do also lack some basic industrial design common sense.
BMW seemed back on track since Bangle and Fisker left. Their cars regained smart
detailing and sound proportions. I do surely hope the 4-series will not be an exception, as the
serial car just needs to loose some “sports car” chintz.
mo-i