[desmo9]

Originally posted by Tone@Feb 24 2004, 06:27 PM

I'll go first:

1. Which division?: Pontiac

2. Name this division's main competitors in the marketplace: Nissan, Mazda, Subaru, Dodge, Ford and, ironically, Chevy

3. What charateristics make this division different than its competitors?: The best Pontiacs have a kind of aggresive sophistication - very American and very male - yet capable of sophiticated performance. Sort of like an educated professional with blue collar roots who is as at home in the boardroom and beerhall.

4. Name a least one and up to three iconic cars from this division's past or present. These should best typify who the division is (or should be): 1965 GTO, 1970 Firebird, 1965 -1967 2+2.

5. If the division were a person, name the adjectives that would best describe their personality: lean, athletic, strong, down-to-earth, smart, capable, worldly.

Anyone else want to take a shot?

1. Which division?: Buick

2. Name this division's main competitors in the marketplace: Mercury, Chrysler, Toyota

3. What charateristics make this division different than its competitors?: Authentic. Most traditionally American of any global brand. Style that's conservative but at the same time stands out. Fireball Eight.

4. Name a least one and up to three iconic cars from this division's past or present. These should best typify who the division is (or should be): Y-job

5. If the division were a person, name the adjectives that would best describe their personality: (would be easy to get sarcastic here)... proud, sophistocated and patriotic bodybuilder in a 3-piece suit, in attendance at an orchestral symphony performing Gershwin's Rhapsody in Blue.

 

[desmo9]

But the fact is, if you imagine what Saab should be and what Cadillac should be -- as symbolized by a 900 versus a CTS, for example-- you see a marked distinction in character.

These two don't have to overlap, because Saab has already etched out an identity that's the antithesis of "American luxury". If GM rubs away at Saab's distinctiveness, they'll do so to their own (and Saab's) peril. With what we expect in a 9-7, consider it rubbed. Good job, Bob.