Quote:
Originally Posted by Porsche-O-Phile
I've always been fascinated by their simplicity. They're relatively raw, simple vehicles that produce great results and are damn near bulletproof for it. At least the "real" ones are. It's a welcome change from today's plastic McCars with all kinds of electronic crap in it to get into a 911 with its raw, unrefined air-cooled flat-six and go screaming across the blacktop. The most sophisticated circuitry in my car is the headlight switch. And I'm proud of that. I doubt I'll even put a radio in it. I don't see the need.
It's perhaps a commentary on how spoiled by technology we've become to be so stunned that such a "simple" vehicle can perform so admirably, but there it is. Too many of today's cars are "manufactured". Porsches were "crafted". There's a difference.
I'm also fascinated why something so simple and easy to understand can be so bloody expensive.  |
Gotta disagree. I started in an air cooled car, and moved into water pumpers.
I do understand your point. To have a well tuned flat six in a 911.....wow. Its art. The air cooled cars are like fine automatic watches. Engineering marvels, and beautifully constructed by hand.
But I don't think the technology of the modern cars is 'spoiling' them. Indeed, when done properly, much of the technology is somewhat hidden. I drove a 911 turbo (996) recently. The car, like all 987\997 cars has PSM. That doesn't take away from the driving experience for the average driver. In fact it dramatically improves the experience. It make it what is should be: A fast sports car that feels stable and fun to drive on the street. You can turn the PSM off if you wish, but the car quickly reminds you that there is 400hp on tap!
I think folks are facinated by Porsche for both the cars as well as the legacy. In an age of huge international conglomerates, where name badges are somewhat meaningless, Porsche stands proudly independant. There is the racing history as well. I mean, here is a company that has made the same model for over 40 years, and it is still viewed as the benchmark by which other cars are judged. THAT is an amazing legacy.