[dd74]

I assume both shows are on at the same time - they usually run together. Whatever the case, most of the same hardware was probably at both shows. With that, I have some observations:

1) Why have a Detroit show, particularly at the same time? Everyone knows L.A. is the auto mecca of the world - at least in design. That's because, on one hand, we have the Art Center in Pasadena, which is like the MIT of auto design. Conversely, Ferraris, Lambos, and other exotics - while not quite as common as yellow cabs to NY, are easily seen here. Are they as common in Detroit? I don't know, really. I've heard the Detroit show is better than the LA show, and honestly, I can't see why it would be. Has anyone been to both shows?

2) Concept cars bug the daylights out of me: the new Camaro was at the L.A. show, but it seemingly forgot its engine and interior while I was there (the driver and passenger's side doors were closed, and no one was allowed on the rotating platform). In short, why show off a new car when all of its aspects aren't ready for public viewing?

3) The auto-aftermarket: is it in danger? So many manufacturers have their own in-house tuning departments. Mazda has Mazdaspeed, Ford has SVT, Mercedes has AMG, so on and so on. So what does that mean to the smaller aftermarket suppliers like Jackson Racing (Mazda) and Dinan (BMW and BMW-Mini)? For example, would you rather buy a Cooper Works Mini from the Mini dealership, or an aftermarket setup, possibly voiding the warranty in addition.

4) Okay - one last observation: is it me or have ordinary cars become really fast? Aside from a big Yukon or Denali (0-60 in est. 7.5 secs), it was difficult to find a normal passenger car that didn't go from 0-60 in less than 6 seconds.

Now no doubt, that's fast - and I'm not in any way complaining. However, I worry about the guy beside me who in his 300 hp. Lexus, may not have full control of the car.

In short, could all this power/speed be too much for today's driver? After all, in Los Angeles, it is estimated that in ten years, the average speed of L.A. freeways will be below 20 mph.